Thank you, Mr. President, and may you have a good presidency this month, sir. And thank you, SRSG Haysom, Ambassador Gituai, and Mr. Yakani for your briefings. They were very enlightening.
The people of South Sudan deserve peace, freedom to participate in civic and political processes, and a government responsive to their needs. Instead, transitional government leaders have consistently failed to take the minimal steps required to create the conditions necessary to bring the transitional period to a peaceful conclusion. They have also failed to use public revenue transparently to address public needs while demanding the international community continue to fund basic public services.
Despite significant international support, including from the UN, AU, and IGAD on key election issues, we see President Salva Kiir, First President Riek Machar, and other South Sudanese political leaders have thus far collectively failed to meet the standards necessary for free, fair and peaceful elections to take place.
South Sudan’s leaders have not demonstrated political will to seriously move toward elections nor demonstrated a commitment to political and civic space. In fact, they have made matters worse as evidenced by their giving the National Security Service (NSS) warrantless arrest and detention powers.
January 9, 2025 marked the 20th anniversary of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), a pivotal moment in South Sudan’s history that brought hope to a people long ravaged by war and oppression. However, two decades later, the CPA’s promise of peace, prosperity, and a responsive government remains unfulfilled. Instead of being a cause for celebration, the anniversary was a reminder of the failure of South Sudan’s leaders to meet the expectations of their own people and of the international donor community who have long provided their country with support.
"We call on the transitional government to act without further delay," urging them "to start to transparently and responsibly use public revenue for appropriate public purposes rather than benefit a small corrupt elite." The statement continues with an appeal "to open civic and political space as a path towards free fair and peaceful elections" allowing citizens "to meaningfully engage in domestic government."
South Sudanese leaders are urged "both signatories and non-signatories" of the 2018 peace agreement "to take opportunity" at Tumaini talks in Nairobi "to discuss a path forward." The welcoming note extends appreciation for Kenya's decision "to continue hosting these talks."
A call is made for establishing "a consistent system" ensuring tax exemptions for foreign assistance reaching those most in need while reducing delivery risks.
Attention will be focused on developments ahead of April's UNMISS mandate renewal. The United States pledges continued commitment alongside UNMISS supporting peace efforts in South Sudan.
"And with that I thank you Mr. President."