Civil society leader Edmund Yakani has issued an appeal to regional and international leaders to intervene in the dispute over the amended National Election Act in South Sudan. Speaking in Juba, Yakani, the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), warned that the current friction threatens to return the country to war. He called on the African Union, IGAD, and the United Nations to send a field mission to prevent political disputes from turning into violence.
Yakani's appeal was directed at high-profile diplomats, including IGAD Special Envoy, AU Envoy President Jakaya Kikwete, AU Commissioner Bankole Adeoye, and UN leadership. He emphasized that statements alone would not be enough to address the situation, but a solidarity mission to South Sudan was necessary to prevent further escalation. Yakani urged diplomats to act swiftly to prevent the situation from getting out of hand and to address the differences among the divided political positions.
The dispute over the amended National Election Act has raised concerns about the potential for violence in South Sudan, particularly with the December 2026 polls approaching. Yakani warned national leaders, including President Salva Kiir and opposition figures, against using military force or political harassment to settle disputes. He emphasized that such actions would be a potential trigger for the country to return to war.
Yakani urged political actors to engage in dialogue without preconditions and to establish equal conditions for all parties. He also stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of civilians during the transition period. According to Yakani, the recent political developments in South Sudan have raised the level of friction, disagreement, and discontent, and the fear of the country returning to violence is high.
The situation in South Sudan has been closely monitored by regional and international bodies, with the RJMEC urging parties to honor the 2018 peace accord as the September 22 deadline arrived. The European Union has also stated that there is no funding available for South Sudan's December elections. Against this backdrop, Yakani's appeal for international intervention has gained significance.
Yakani's statement was carried by Eye Radio, a prominent media outlet in South Sudan. The country's electoral commission, NEC, recently unveiled a voter registration book, a step towards the December 2026 polls. The polls are seen as a critical test of the country's stability and progress towards consolidating peace.
The international community has been closely watching the developments in South Sudan, with many expressing concerns about the country's stability and progress towards peace. Yakani's appeal for intervention has added to the growing calls for international support to help the country navigate its current challenges. The situation remains volatile, and the international community's response will be crucial in determining the country's future.
Key points
- Edmund Yakani urges international community to intervene in South Sudan's elections act dispute to prevent violence.
- Dispute over amended National Election Act threatens to return South Sudan to war.
- Yakani calls for dialogue without preconditions and equal conditions for all parties.
