Written by Lisa Murimi
A high-level delegation led by African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf arrived in Juba on Monday for urgent talks with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, following the rising tensions and a faltering 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement.
The visit, which also included representatives from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), comes at a time of deepening political uncertainty and escalating violence, particularly in Upper Nile state.
Talks focused on expediting the implementation of the peace accord, reinforcing regional security, and pushing South Sudan toward long-overdue democratic elections.
Minister of Presidential Affairs Chol Mawut Ajongo called the mission “timely,” saying it would deepen diplomatic engagement and give regional leaders a clearer picture of the political crisis.
Chairperson Mahmoud emphasized unity, urging South Sudan’s leaders to “work together to complete the transitional roadmap and lead the country to democratic elections.”
However, the delegation’s access to First Vice President Riek Machar, reportedly under house arrest, remains unclear—raising concerns over transparency and inclusivity in the peace process.
Previous international missions have similarly been denied access, casting doubt on the government’s commitment to reform.
In a carefully worded Facebook statement, Kiir’s office said the AU and IGAD’s presence “demonstrates the determination of the continental and regional institutions to ensure South Sudan realises peace, stability, and democracy.”
While the presidency lauded the visit as a sign of regional solidarity, ground realities tell a harsher story.
Continued violence and political gridlock have left many South Sudanese skeptical.
For the AU and IGAD, South Sudan remains a critical test of their ability to enforce peace on the continent.
Whether this latest diplomatic push can deliver results remains uncertain.
