Civil society leader Edmund Yakani has called on political leaders in South Sudan to avoid violence and embrace dialogue following the dissolution of the Transitional Government of National Unity. The government, established in 2020 under the 2018 peace agreement, was dissolved through a series of presidential decrees. Yakani, who heads the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization, says political disagreements should not threaten peace and stability as the country prepares for elections in December.
The dissolution of the unity government comes three months before the December 22 elections. President Kiir announced the dissolution and the formation of a caretaker government ahead of the polls. Yakani urged political leaders to prioritize peace and stability, saying that citizens want to pursue development and improve their lives without the threat of violence or instability. He emphasized that political leaders, whether satisfied or dissatisfied with the decision, should work towards maintaining peace.
Yakani also called for inclusive political dialogue involving all political actors, including those inside and outside the country. He said this dialogue should provide a platform for resolving political disagreements and supporting a peaceful electoral process. The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization believes that an inclusive dialogue is crucial for the country's stability and development.
President Kiir's presidential decrees not only dissolved the transitional government but also established a caretaker government. According to a presidential decree, all caretaker officials shall not contest in the upcoming elections. This move aims to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process. The formation of the caretaker government has been seen as a step towards preparing for the elections.
The European Union has warned that the caretaker government faces a growing humanitarian crisis. The EU expressed concern about the country's stability and the potential for violence during the electoral period. Yakani's call for dialogue and peace has been echoed by regional leaders who are expected to attend an inter-party dialogue on elections.
The inter-party dialogue is expected to bring together various political stakeholders to discuss the electoral process and the country's stability. Regional leaders will be attending the dialogue, which aims to promote a peaceful and inclusive electoral process. The dialogue is seen as an opportunity for political leaders to address their differences and work towards a stable and democratic transition.
Edmund Yakani's appeal to political leaders to prioritize peace and stability has been seen as a crucial step towards maintaining peace in the country. As South Sudan prepares for elections, the need for dialogue and cooperation among political leaders has become increasingly important. The country's stability and development depend on the ability of its leaders to work together and prioritize the needs of its citizens.
Key points
- Edmund Yakani calls for inclusive political dialogue to promote peace and stability in South Sudan.
- The Transitional Government of National Unity was dissolved through presidential decrees, three months before the December 22 elections.
- A caretaker government has been established to oversee the electoral process, with caretaker officials barred from contesting the elections.
