S. Sudanese youth demand involvement in peace talks
August 7, 2014 (KAMPALA) – South Sudanese youths from different political parties are demanding to be included in the IGAD-mediated peace talks seeking to end the country’s almost eight-month-old conflict.
Bush Buse, the chairman of Equatorian students union in Kampala, said youths had roles to play on finding solutions to the conflict in the country.
Buse, who led the youth delegation, urged IGAD to offer them an opportunity to participate in the talks, directly and independently.
“We should all unite as youth from this country, it is our future being played with, forget the past and don’t allow you to be manipulated by politicians for selfish interest,” he said in statement extended Sudan Tribune Thursday.
The official further advised the youth not to waste any more time, stressing that innocent lives were being lost as conflict in the country continues.
“The youth should be patriotic and work for peace, unity and reconciliation for better future of the country,” remarked Buse.
David Tipo, the chairperson of Youth Empowerment for Advocacy Forum in Juba, urged the mediators, warring parties and stake holders to consider their position paper and ensure the youth demands were met, if a “quick” solution to the conflict was to be obtained.
The youth petition also makes a list of demands, including the need to have seven youth delegates in the talks, the urgency for the two warring parties to adhere to the cessation of hostilities agreement and a 30% youth representation in the transitional government, among others,
An estimated 1.3 million South Sudanese have been displaced both internally and into neighbouring countries as a result of the conflict that could see more than of the population at risk of severe famine.
(ST)