CEPO calls for dialogue to Resolve South Sudan’s Political Deadlock

The Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), Edmund Yakani, has called on the leaders to prioritize dialogue and compromise to resolve the nation’s political stalemate, which has significantly impacted citizens.

By Jenifer James

The Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), Edmund Yakani, has called on the leaders to prioritize dialogue and compromise to resolve the nation’s political stalemate, which has significantly impacted citizens.

In a statement on Thursday, Yakani said citizens are bearing the brunt of this political impasse, adding that lives are being lost daily due to floods, hunger, and inadequate healthcare.

“Leaders must realize that the nation’s stability hinges on their willingness to compromise,” he said.

The Tumani peace process designed to promote inclusive governance and support South Sudan’s transition to peace, has encountered significant challenges. While it initially inspired hope, progress has stalled as disputes between the government and opposition persist.

The government has demanded a review of the Tumani protocols, citing contradictions with the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

Conversely, the opposition is opposed to revisiting these protocols, advocating instead for immediate focus on inclusive governance and equitable power-sharing.

Yakani emphasized the importance of flexibility in resolving these disputes.

“Both sides have valid concerns, the government wants to address contradictions, and the opposition wishes to pick up where negotiations left off. This demonstrates potential for progress, but inflexible positions are hindering a resolution,” he disclosed.

Yakani further warned that prolonged deadlock could worsen the country’s humanitarian crisis.

“If the Tumani process collapses, it will mark a profound failure of leadership. Political rigidity cannot be allowed to hold the country hostage,” he said.

Yakani urged both sides to listen to each other’s perspectives and also reminded leaders of their responsibility to alleviate citizens’ suffering.

“Every delay means more lives lost to hunger and disease. Action is not just needed; it is overdue,” he said.

As South Sudan grapples with these political challenges, Yakani’s plea underscores the urgent need for collaborative leadership to address the country’s critical issues.

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