When the Revitalised Agreement for the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) was signed over seven years ago, there was hope for a new beginning. After years of fighting, many believed peace was finally in reach. Sadly, that optimism was misplaced.
President Kiir was supposed to lead a government that united everyone, but that hasn’t happened. Instead, power-sharing principles have been ignored, and real progress has stalled. Public resources are mismanaged, with many government employees not receiving their salaries. Meanwhile, international donors are spending more on essential services than the government itself. Once, South Sudan was a middle-income country due to its oil revenue; now, it’s the poorest and most corrupt in the world.
Recently, we’ve seen a troubling rise in violence. People worry that we might see the same levels of conflict as in 2013 and 2016. This would not only be devastating for the people of South Sudan but also for neighboring countries already affected by the crisis in Sudan.
Experts argue that the leaders must change their approach. They need to stop armed conflicts and return to a nationwide ceasefire. The government should focus on ending attacks against its citizens, freeing political prisoners, and using revenue effectively to support education, health, and other services.
Transitional government officials must also allow humanitarian organizations to operate freely. For example, stopping interference with UN peacekeepers is crucial. If this continues, it shows a disregard for the well-being of the citizens.
All of South Sudan’s allies, especially its neighbors, need to send a clear message: enough is enough. Leaders must prioritize peace to regain trust, both from their people and the international community. If they take meaningful steps towards stability, they will attract support and investments, which are essential for rebuilding the nation.
Recent studies show that countries crippled by internal conflict can take decades to recover. South Sudan should take this to heart. A commitment to lasting peace isn’t just about stopping violence; it’s about building a society where everyone can thrive.
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