South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasized that elections alone are not enough to guarantee peace and democracy in South Sudan. He made these remarks during a virtual meeting of the African Union's High-Level Ad Hoc Committee on South Sudan, also known as the C5. The committee, which South Africa chairs, includes members from Algeria, Chad, Nigeria, and Rwanda. The C5 supports efforts to advance peace and implement South Sudan's 2018 peace agreement.
South Sudan is scheduled to hold its first national elections since gaining independence in 2011 on December 22. Ramaphosa stressed that credible elections require a genuine and inclusive political process, security arrangements, and protection for electoral staff and civilians. A clear legal framework, adequate financing, and capable institutional and operational capacity are also essential. He urged South Sudan's leaders to address outstanding issues before the election and continue dialogue despite their differences.
Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue for South Sudan's future, stating that it is a vital guarantor for the country's people. He encouraged regional and continental partners to support South Sudan but emphasized that its leaders must take necessary steps to ensure the election contributes to lasting peace and stability. The meeting also heard from Ambassador Selma Malika Haddadi, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, who noted that South Sudan is entering a decisive stage of its political transition.
Haddadi stressed the need to preserve the ceasefire, strengthen political confidence through inclusive dialogue, and create conditions for a peaceful and credible election. She emphasized that AU support for the electoral process in South Sudan is anchored in the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement, which is the principal framework for completing South Sudan's political transition. The agreement is seen as crucial for the country's stability and security.
IGAD Chair and Djibouti's President Ismail Omar Guelleh also addressed the meeting, highlighting the fragility of the situation in South Sudan. He noted that recent developments have generated concern among stakeholders, with violence continuing in several states and increasing displacement and cross-border movements. Guelleh called for a clear and definitive roadmap for the transition and reiterated IGAD's call for elections to be held in December.
Guelleh emphasized that neither South Sudan nor the region can afford another delay in the electoral process. The AU and IGAD have continued to press South Sudan's leaders to maintain the peace process and create conditions for a credible electoral transition. The country's National Elections Act was amended on September 21, and the transitional government was dissolved the following day, replaced by a caretaker administration as preparations for the December vote continue.
The international community is closely watching the developments in South Sudan, with the country facing significant challenges in its transition to democracy. The upcoming election is seen as a crucial step towards stability and security, but it requires a conducive environment and the support of regional and international partners. The African Union and IGAD will continue to play a key role in supporting South Sudan's transition.
Key points
- South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasizes that elections alone are not enough to guarantee peace and democracy in South Sudan.
- The African Union and IGAD are supporting South Sudan's transition, with a focus on implementing the 2018 peace agreement.
- The country's leaders are urged to address outstanding issues and continue dialogue to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
