UN Security Council consultations on South Sudan
Civil society activist Edmund Yakani says he welcomes an upcoming United Nations Security Council meeting focused on rising security and political tensions in South Sudan. His comments come as Council members prepare closed consultations on the country’s evolving situation.
According to the account, the session was requested by the United States. The discussions are expected to cover recent political developments and the government’s current posture toward the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, known as UNMISS.
International solidarity as clashes intensify
Yakani argues that international solidarity matters as fighting escalates in parts of South Sudan. He calls on external partners to stand with South Sudanese citizens and to push for an end to violence that, he says, is taking a growing toll on communities.
He links the current alarm to renewed military confrontations between the Sudan People’s Liberation Army–In Opposition (SPLA-IO) and the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF). Yakani says the clashes have displaced many civilians across the country.
Displacement and humanitarian access concerns
Yakani says many displaced people are exposed to heightened risks, including limited access to humanitarian assistance. He adds that some families continue to lose lives and livelihoods as the security situation affects daily survival and local economies.
“I would like to express appreciation to the members of the international community that stood up to sow solidarity for safety, protection, peace and stability for the common citizens of South Sudan,” Yakani is quoted as saying.
He also praises the United States for elevating concerns at the Security Council, describing Washington as a key actor on South Sudan issues at the Council. He says briefings on unfolding political developments are necessary given the reported rise in confrontations.
Ceasefire commitments and the 2018 peace process
Yakani also welcomes a joint statement by several embassies urging armed actors, particularly SPLA-IO and SSPDF, to stop fighting. The statement calls for respect of the 2017 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement and for dialogue to take priority over armed confrontation.
He describes the appeal for parties to lay down weapons and return to negotiations as timely. Yakani further notes that signatories to the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement have taken steps toward an inclusive, South Sudanese-led political dialogue.
At the same time, he says the process has faced resistance from some actors. In his view, those actors are attempting to undermine the dialogue initiative, even as international partners press for restraint and political engagement.
What the diplomatic spotlight signals
The closed-door consultation underscores sustained international attention on South Sudan’s security and political trajectory, with UNMISS remaining central to discussions. For Yakani, the combination of Security Council engagement and embassy messaging reflects pressure to de-escalate and to protect civilians.