Ban Ki-Moon: Put Peace Above Politics in South Sudan

By Jok P Mayom

JUBA, 29 February 2016 [Gurtong]-The United Nation Secretary General (UN-SG) Ban Ki-Moon has urged South Sudan leaders to put peace above politics to restore the stolen hope of the crying citizens.

Mr. Ban Ki-Moon was speaking last Thirsday at Juba International Airport (JIA) after ending his one day visit to South Sudan where he made his last visit to the African Continent.

“Respecting the terms of the peace agreement is not an option. It is a must. I am encouraged by the proposed compromise on implementing security arrangements for Juba” said Ban Ki Moon. 

“My message to the leaders of South Sudan is clear; Put peace above politics. Pursue compromise. Overcome obstacles. Establish the Transitional Government of National Unity. And do not delay it” he said.

He said, “The parties must know that responsibility does not end with the signing of an agreement. In many ways, it begins with the signing of agreement. And it must begin now.”

He further said with the continued violence in the country, the humanitarian and economic situation is in dire situation.

“The humanitarian and economic situation in the country continues to plummet. Over $1.3 billion dollars is needed to address current needs of over 5 million South Sudanese this year alone” he said.

Ban Ki Moon said, he commended humanitarians for their work and courage despite assurances for safe and unhindered access in the peace agreement, aid workers continue to be targeted.

“At least 45 aid workers have been killed over the last two years and many more are missing” UN-SG revealed.

“I urge all parties to remove restrictions on the freedom of movement of the United Nations and humanitarian actors and ensure access to people in need of protection, and life-saving aid” he added.

South Sudan government earlier said is not putting restriction to the humanitarian partners saying that access has been granted.

The country entered another civil war on December 15th, 2013 after ending its longest African Continent’s 21 years of civil war in 2005 with the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA).

President Salva Kiir Mayardit accused his sacked vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny of plotting a coup against his leadership something Machar denied. Mr. Machar has now been reinstated to his former position but rather made as First vice President.

The two signed peace accord in August last year vowing to end the conflict and agree to form the Transitional government of National Unity (TGoNU) yet to be formed.