The Inter-Religious Council East Africa (EAIRC) has urged South Sudanese parties in the Nairobi talks to seize the Tumaini initiative as a final opportunity to secure lasting peace in the country.
The Council, in a statement seen by The Radio Community, expressed its hope for the Tumaini (Hope) Initiative’s high-level peace team to ensure everlasting peace.
Despite the challenges facing the Tumaini Initiative, including concerns about its relevance to the 2018 peace agreement, the Council remains hopeful.
“To the esteemed leaders of South Sudan, both at the negotiating table in Nairobi and those holding the reins of power in Juba, South Sudan: a historic opportunity lies before you. Let peace be the defining act of your leadership and every decision you make in this peace process,” the statement reads.
Recently, the First Vice President and leader of the SPLM in opposition, Riek Machar, expressed concerns to the Kenyan mediation team that the talks were creating parallel institutions.
In a letter dated June 19, 2024, Machar presented seven points of concern to the mediation team headed by Kenyan Gen. Lazarus Sumbeiywo.
The religious leaders believe that the Tumaini negotiations could mark a turning point in South Sudan’s narrative.
They envision a future where children can play freely in the
streets, families can rebuild their lives without fear, and the sounds of
laughter and hope replace the echoes of gunfire.
The initiative presents an opportunity to establish a roadmap for a more promising future. The Council believes that this is a chance to address critical issues and the need for a more inclusive and representative government.
“Let Tumaini pave the way for; a constitution that reflects the voices and aspirations of all South Sudanese citizens, regardless of ethnicity or background; a reformed and unified security sector that upholds the rule of law and protects civilians is paramount," it says.
The Inter-Religious Council East Africa (EAIRC), Fellowship of Christian Councils in the Great Lakes and the Horn of Africa, and the All-Africa Conference of Churches, expressed their support for the Kenyan-led peace process for South Sudan.
“We will continue to collaborate with our South Sudanese
counterparts, offering unwavering support in their efforts to promote
reconciliation, healing, forgiveness, and justice. This may include joint
initiatives focused on interfaith dialogue," the letter continues.
“This is your chance to engrave your names in history as the team and generation that ushered in a new era for your nation. This turning point demands a choice: peace or continued suffering. Seize the opportunity presented by the Tumaini peace talks and let hope triumph over despair. Let Tumaini be the platform that secures a brighter future for South Sudan."
The group acknowledges that South Sudan’s progress continues to retreat due to several obstacles.
“The dream of a peaceful and prosperous South Sudan seems to recede further with each passing day. Political uncertainties cast a long shadow, economic hardship cripples’ families, and the spectrum of violence continues to haunt countless communities,” it adds.
Beginning on May 9th, 2024, in Nairobi, the Tumaini (hope)
Initiative is a series of peace talks in South Sudan between the government and
opposition parties who did not sign the 2018 peace deal, which the Kenyan
government facilitated at President Salva Kiir's request.
