UN to support election preparations in South Sudan: Lacroix
February 24, 2025 (JUBA) – The Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix has reaffirmed the United Nation’s continued support and commitment to South Sudan.
Speaking at a press conference held in Juba on Monday, Lacroix expressed concerns over the dire economic and humanitarian situation in South Sudan as it entered the fourth extension of its transitional period.
He made the remarks following his visit to Sudan, Abyei and South Sudan.
The UN official also acknowledged the significant challenges facing the world’s youngest nation, including the economic and security repercussions of the ongoing conflict in neighbouring Sudan.
He said the parties to the revitalized peace agreement should overcome political deadlocks through consensus and move swiftly to ensure that this latest extension leads to elections under the best possible circumstances.
“The conflict in Sudan has had a profound impact on South Sudan, including the influx of refugees, returnees, and internally displaced persons,” Lacroix said.
The peacekeeping chief Ruther stressed that the UN is aware of the complexities of the situation and remains committed to advocating for the resources needed to support South Sudan’s transition.
“I wanted to assure our partners of the UN’s strong commitment to continue supporting South Sudan. We will ensure that attention remains focused on the situation here,” he said.
While in South Sudan, Lacroix met President Salva Kiir, the country’s Vice Presidents, cabinet ministers as well as members of the civil society organisations to discuss the new transition period.
On the weekend, he visited Abyei, where he met with local and international stakeholders, including the Sudan- and South Sudan-appointed administrations, traditional leaders, civil society representatives, women groups, UN agencies and UNISFA peacekeepers. During the meetings, discussions focused on UNISFA’s protection efforts in Abyei, the proliferation of arms and the escalating humanitarian crisis driven by the Sudan conflict and flooding in South Sudan.
Meanwhile in Port Sudan, Lacroix met with the Minister of Defence, with high-level officials of the Sovereignty Council and of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and with UN agencies.
(ST)