BY MALUAL BOL KIIR
The Tumaini Peace Initiative represents a pivotal effort in South Sudan’s ongoing journey toward reconciliation, aiming to bridge deep political and social divides. While the latest round of peace negotiations presents significant challenges, it also holds promise for a resolution. This article examines the state of current negotiations, identifies key obstacles, and proposes pathways toward sustainable peace, with a focus on South Sudan’s long-term future.
Key challenges in the peace process
Deep-seated divisions and entrenched positions
The ongoing impasse over the sequencing of the peace agenda highlights the entrenched mistrust between the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) and the Opposition. The RTGoNU’s insistence on prioritizing the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) contrasts sharply with the Opposition’s focus on the Tumaini Protocols. This divergence reflects deeper issues within South Sudan’s political landscape, where conflicting visions of governance overshadow the critical need for unity and collaboration.
Mediation strategies: focused engagement for progress
To address the divisions, mediators have employed small-scale strategies, such as one-on-one and small-group consultations, designed to ease tensions and create space for candid exchanges. While these approaches offer a platform for more effective dialogue, the lack of significant progress raises questions about whether they are sufficient to break the current deadlock and produce meaningful results.
The risks of prolonged deadlock
The extended deadlock, exemplified by unsuccessful attempts to reach a consensus, poses significant risks. If this stalemate continues, it could further erode trust between the parties, diminishing public confidence in the peace process and hardening opposing positions. Such a scenario risks derailing the entire peace initiative and setting back future efforts.
Positive signs of engagement amid challenges
Despite the setbacks, there are signs of continued engagement from both sides. Their willingness to stay engaged in the dialogue process demonstrates a shared understanding of the high stakes involved. This ongoing commitment provides hope that even amid entrenched divisions, a pathway forward can still be found.
A roadmap for sustainable peace
The Tumaini Peace Initiative underscores that lasting peacebuilding is a lengthy, often arduous journey. Success requires patience, trust, and a readiness to compromise. While the obstacles are substantial, they present critical opportunities to lay the groundwork for a more stable and prosperous South Sudan.
1. Crafting a unified vision for South Sudan’s future
A primary obstacle in the negotiations is the absence of a shared vision for the future of the country. Both the RTGoNU and the Opposition must transcend their agendas and focus on national priorities that can unite the country. These priorities should include improving security, addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis, fostering economic recovery, and promoting social cohesion. By finding common ground on these issues, the negotiations can shift from divisive to collaborative, with both sides working toward the greater good of the nation.
2. Building trust through small, measurable wins
Trust is a fragile but essential element of successful peace negotiations. To rebuild it, both sides can focus on smaller, actionable agreements or joint humanitarian projects that deliver tangible benefits. Achieving incremental progress in these areas can create momentum, proving that cooperation leads to positive outcomes, which in turn can foster greater trust and cooperation on larger issues.
3. The role of mediators and external stakeholders
Mediators and external stakeholders play a critical role in bridging the divides between the parties. Regional and international actors must continue to provide technical assistance, helping reconcile differences between the R-ARCSS and the Tumaini Protocols. External actors can also incentivize cooperation, offering support to keep the peace process on track and moving forward.
4. Leadership driven by national interests
The success of the Tumaini Peace Initiative hinges on both delegations placing South Sudan’s collective interests above political gain. South Sudanese leaders must demonstrate bold, visionary leadership, focusing on the welfare of the people rather than personal or partisan interests. The citizens of South Sudan, who have endured immense hardship, deserve leaders committed to peace, progress, and long-term stability. Leadership that prioritizes national unity over political division is essential to achieving lasting peace.
A fragile but hopeful path to peace
The Tumaini Peace Initiative represents both a formidable challenge and a rare opportunity for South Sudan. While the lack of consensus is a significant concern, the continued engagement from both sides serves as a beacon of hope. Achieving lasting peace will require a commitment to open-mindedness, compromise, and a shared vision for South Sudan’s future.
With unity, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose, South Sudan can overcome its current challenges and build a future defined by peace, stability, and prosperity. The road ahead may be long, but with continued dialogue, cooperation, and leadership focused on national unity, South Sudan has the potential to transcend its divisions and become a symbol of hope for the entire region.
The author is a peacebuilder and human rights advocate. He can be reached via malualbk2005@gmail.com.
The views expressed in ‘opinion’ articles published by Radio Tamazuj are solely those of the writer. The veracity of any claims made is the responsibility of the author, not Radio Tamazuj.