Prof. Jok Madut Jok, a researcher of the Sudd Institute, has questioned government’s seriousness to bring an end to the ongoing war in South Sudan, while warning of a potential humanitarian crisis by June.
The Sudd Institute is an independent research organization that conducts and facilitates research and training to inform public policy and practice, to create opportunities for discussion and debate, and to improve analytical capacity in South Sudan.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Jok said that the government is focusing on war instead of trying to bring about peace to the people of South Sudan. He further said President Kiir’s call for a national dialogue was meant for political consumption only and that the government is not serious to make peace.
Jok pointed out that national dialogue will not achieve its objectives if it is not facilitated by a neutral body, while calling for a third party to lead the national dialogue.
He pointed out the national dialogue should involve the current government and other stakeholders including the SPLM-IO faction led by Riek Machar.
Separately, Jok warned of a potential humanitarian crisis by June due to rampant insecurity and deteriorating economic conditions in South Sudan. The observer called on the people of South Sudan to embrace peace and forgiveness this year, while calling on the government to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in the country.
The Sudd Institute, Ebony Center, and the Center for Peace and Development Studies at the University of Juba were assigned by President Kiir to help in the national dialogue process.
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