Rabat – In a virtual meeting chaired by Ambassador Mohamed Arrouchi, Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the AU and UNECA, the Moroccan delegation emphasized the importance of dialogue among all stakeholders in South Sudan as the viable approach toward achieving successful democratic transition and ensuring lasting peace, security, and stability in the country.
“We express our confidence in the capacity of South Sudanese authorities and stakeholders to take measures that strengthen national cohesion and commit to a sustainable path for peace and stability,” said the Moroccan delegation.
It went on to recommend to the CPS (AU Peace and Security Council) to redouble efforts in mobilizing resources and funds to support the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement in South Sudan, aiming for transparent and credible elections within the stipulated transitional timeline.
South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after more than three decades of war, only to plunge into a ruinous internal conflict from 2013 to 2018, stalling development.
According to the UNHCR, despite a ceasefire and power-sharing agreement in place since February 2020, insecurity and armed clashes persist in certain regions, resulting in over 1.5 million internally displaced people and almost 2.2 million refugees in neighboring countries, notably Uganda.
Since the onset of the Sudanese conflict in April 2023, regional and international attention has shifted away from South Sudan, thereby easing pressure on the government to adhere to transition conditions.
The implementation of the 2018 peace agreement has been delayed by various internal and external factors, resulting in a two-year extension of the transition period, now set to conclude in February 2025.
This extension comes with essential criteria to be met before the December 2024 elections, including finalizing the constitution, unifying and redeploying armed forces, reinstating election-related legislation, and corresponding institutions.
Recognizing the vital importance of peace, security, and stability, the Moroccan delegation underscored the need for constructive cooperation between stakeholders and relevant international organizations to ensure stability in its brotherly nation.
Additionally, the delegation commended South Sudan’s efforts under the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan and the Extended Transition Roadmap, particularly regarding ongoing preparations for adopting a permanent constitution and holding elections in December 2024, marking the end of the transition.
