NAIROBI, Dec. 5, 2024 – Pagan Amum, leader of the South Sudan Opposition Movements Alliance (SSOMA), has called on the government’s new delegation to recommit to the Tumaini consensus protocols as peace talks resume in Nairobi. These negotiations, launched in May 2024, aim to mediate unresolved issues with holdout opposition groups yet to endorse the 2018 Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
Nine protocols have already been agreed upon in the Tumaini Peace Initiative, but progress stalled in July after government representatives raised concerns over proposed mechanisms.
Addressing the talks on Wednesday, Amum emphasized the need for unity and renewed commitment to the protocols. “On behalf of the opposition, I come before you with a profound sense of responsibility and hope,” Amum said. “Our people continue to endure insecurity, economic hardship, inter-communal violence, land disputes, and natural disasters. We urge the new government delegation to maintain the spirit of consensus demonstrated by their predecessors to finalize protocols on responsibility sharing.”
Amum underscored the opposition’s dedication to sustainable peace and democratic progress, stating, “We are resolute in our quest for peace built on previous efforts, including the unimplemented provisions of R-ARCSS. With the mechanisms agreed in the Tumaini consensus, we can break the cycle of failed transitions and pave the way for our first democratic elections.”
Gen. Kuol Manyang Juuk, head of the government delegation, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to achieving durable peace. “My team and I have been mandated by the Presidency to negotiate and return to South Sudan with peace,” Juuk said. He also urged mediators to encourage holdout leaders like Gen. Thomas Cirillo and Gen. Simon Gatwech Dual to join the Tumaini Initiative for a comprehensive peace process.
Juuk acknowledged the critical role of opposition leaders, saying, “We honour our brothers in the opposition, many of whom are former SPLA commanders who contributed greatly to our liberation struggle.” He emphasized the importance of the 2018 revitalized peace agreement as the foundation of the current talks.
The Tumaini Initiative represents a pivotal opportunity to address longstanding challenges and foster national unity in South Sudan.
