Quiet Momentum in Juba
In Juba, delegates from rival camps sat together again this week, continuing the home-grown dialogue designed to rescue the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, signed in 2018 yet still only partially realised.
The latest session featured Former Political Detainees, parliamentarians, and women mediators intent on turning uneasy ceasefire lines into a durable political settlement that could shepherd the young republic toward long-delayed elections.
Stakeholders Renew Commitment
MP Akot Dut Ajieno called the exchange ‘fruitful and very interesting,’ underlining that every signatory bears an equal duty to honour deadlines, fund institutions, and avoid unilateral reshuffles that erode faith in the pact.
He warned that repeated seat replacements without consent, especially within SPLM-IG structures, have injured the accord’s credibility, yet insisted dialogue remains ‘the only tool capable of diffusing the tension simmering in both national and state capitals’.
Former Detainees Voice Concerns
Across the table, FDS delegates listed obstacles they believe still jeopardise peace: wavering political will, splinters inside SPLM-IO, delays in constitutional drafting, and scarce resources earmarked for electoral logistics.
Yet the group reiterated support for the agreement, arguing that an inclusive approach placing citizens above personalities can revitalise stalled reforms in security, governance, and economic oversight.
Women Mediators Offer Guidance
Deputy Political Party Council chair Dr Lona James Luduro Elia praised the ‘openness and honesty’ displayed, contending that women’s participation helps temper rhetoric and keep difficult negotiations anchored to community concerns.
Backed by UN Women technical support, the mediators plan round-the-clock shuttle consultations, hoping to bridge divides before budget timelines for polling and demobilisation activities tighten further.
Cautious Optimism Ahead
Face-to-face meetings between FDS and other signatories resume next week, with Juba officials eyeing concrete metrics such as revamped security battalions and a publicly agreed election calendar.
Diplomats caution that setbacks remain possible, yet the sustained rhythm of dialogue suggests a maturing political culture in South Sudan, one that regional partners, including Congo-Brazzaville, routinely encourage through quiet diplomacy.