The two principal leaders should meet to discuss the status of the Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS), specifically regarding the country controversial swapping of ministries. The leaders some time back held frank deliberations in a friendly atmosphere, which appeared to reflect a spirit of peace, reconciliation, prosperity, and commitment to the Agreement.
However, despite the meeting taking place, the political situation remains in deadlock. The two rival leaders failed to reach possible solutions to the political standoff concerning the unilateral removal of the Défense Minister and the subsequent swapping of the ministries within the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU). They did, however, agree to reconvene at a later date to brainstorm and reach amicable resolutions to these bottlenecks.
It is concerning that politicians continue to create issues, blame one another, and put the country under undue tension. The decree that dismissed the Minister of Défense and the Minister of Interior, and simultaneously swapped the two ministries, appears to be a violation of the R-TGoNU. Crucially, the Défense docket falls under the allocation of the SPLM-IO party.
This violation has raised significant concerns about the stability of the peace process. The meeting between the principals ended without any public outcome, reinforcing the sense of gridlock. For now, the impasse continues until the next sitting, unless a surprising, breakthrough decree is issued to rectify the violation of the two ministries and allow the full implementation of the Peace Agreement to continue. The public, which is following the developments closely, needs clarity.
It is imperative that the political parties prioritize solving these issues mutually to foster hope and peace in the country. The entire public is confused about the internal workings of the government. Citizens understandably believe that disagreement between the two principal parties is a precursor to either lasting peace or a repeat of the 2013 or 2016 crises, which naturally creates fear.
The path to a breakthrough requires transparency: either the appointments are made quietly and accepted, or the leaders must agree on a framework whose outcome is clearly communicated to the public.
To the public: Remain calm. This difficult situation will ultimately find a solution. Continue supporting your leaders in the implementation of the peace agreement. One day, things will be normal. I urge everyone to protect one another and pray. There is a need for total peace so people can finally focus on developmental programs that can elevate South Sudan to the level of other East African nations.
South Sudan should emphasis to overcame devastating tribal conflict and now stands as a unified nation with a strong rule of law.
I appeal to all political parties to focus on the peace agreement and to make sure the country is on total peace for development.
God Protect South Sudan.
Be the Spectator!