South Sudan says success in Kenya talks signal peace in Sudan
June 12, 2024 (JUBA) – South Sudan says success in talks with holdout groups in Kenya could potentially influence a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Sudan.
In an interview with Sudan Tribune, the presidential advisor on security affairs, Tut Gatluak highlighted the positive impact of dialogue in resolving political disputes.
He said the Juba government is committed to peaceful means through dialogue.
“All of us in the transitional government of national unity and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement are united behind the leadership of His Excellency the President, who is the champion of peace and harmony. We are united behind one vision: the vision of peace and stability, not only in the Republic of South Sudan but also in the region. This is why the ongoing talks in Nairobi represent an opportunity not just for peace and stability in South Sudan but also send a signal of good gesture and spirit to be emulated and applied in other countries to settle political disputes of the same nature and dynamics amicably,” said Gatluak.
He further emphasized the potential ripple effect of peace in South Sudan.
“As we have seen, the effects of war in Sudan on South Sudan and other countries in the region, a peaceful environment in South Sudan can influence the thinking and approach in Sudan”, explained Gatluak.
“Peaceful dialogue to settle political differences is the universal practice”, he added.
According to the presidential advisor, ceasefire talks on humanitarian issues will resume after consultations between the parties have been concluded and approved by the principal leaders and key actors in the current conflict in Sudan.
“The talks were adjourned because the parties needed to consult and brief their leaders. When they are done, they will return to the mediation, and everyone will be informed of the next course of the process,” he stressed.
The South Sudan peace talks are mediated by former Kenyan army commander Lazarus Sumbeiywo, who also mediated the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in 2005, which paved the way for South Sudan’s independence in July 2011.
In December 2023, President Kiir requested his Kenyan counterpart, William Ruto to take over the mediation role in talks mediated by the Rome-based Sant’Egidio community over slow progress.
(ST)