The alliance stressed that peace is the only viable path forward to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis, rebuild the economy and restore the rule of law and human rights protections.

By Ajah Jennifer

The National Parties Alliance (NPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and restraint in a time of tension.

The statement came just moments after President Salva Kiir called for peace and the inclusion of all stakeholders in the peace process.

The NPA emphasized that its forces have refrained from escalating violence following the fallout of the Tumaini Agreement in Nairobi, as it reaffirms its commitment to peace in South Sudan.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Ms. Nyanthon Deng Rou, Chairperson of the NPA, noted that while frustrations remain over the slow pace of peace implementation and the fragility of the ceasefire, the party chose not to interfere in recent clashes, prioritizing national stability.

“This decision was made in the interest of promoting peace and stability in the country,” Deng stated, underscoring the alliance’s disciplined approach even amid a volatile political environment.

The NPA’s call follows President Kiir’s recent address to parliament, where he urged holdout opposition groups to join the peace process.

The alliance commended the President for his message, noting that inclusive dialogue is essential for a sustainable peace.

“We believe that the President’s call for unity and inclusivity in the peace process aligns with our own goals and priorities,” Nyanthon noted.

Also, she encouraged all armed groups outside the peace process to put the interests of the people first by halting actions that could endanger stability.

The NPA chairperson emphasized that continued violence would only deepen the humanitarian crisis, weaken economic prospects, and harm South Sudan’s image internationally.

“We urge all holdout opposition groups to take heed of President Kiir’s call and come to the table for meaningful dialogue and collaboration,” the statement read in part.

The party’s restraint, at a time when tensions could easily reignite conflict, serves as a signal that parties could lead responsibly by de-escalating rather than inflaming tensions.

The alliance stressed that peace is the only viable path forward to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis, rebuild the economy and restore the rule of law and human rights protections.

Nyanthon reaffirmed the party’s readiness to engage in constructive dialogue with all parties, emphasizing that peace efforts require consistency and patience from all stakeholders to succeed.

“We remain committed to working towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict in South Sudan and look forward to engaging in constructive discussions with all stakeholders,” Nyanthon stated.

An alternative approach- the National dialogue

The calls for dialogue have taken various tones and shades. Just last month, one of the leaders of the Other Political Parties (OPP), Hon Peter Mayen Majongdit called for an inclusive platform for dialogue among the parties to the 2018 peace agreement. In what Hon. Mayen described as the ‘Juba Initiative for Parties to R-ARCSS” the umbrella of political parties said the current state of the R-ARCSS implementation demands a new, decisive and inclusive approach.

He explained that their proposed initiative would put an end to the conflicts in South Sudan, and address the outstanding challenges, an approach that would then salvage the transitional process before its expiration.  

“This serves to remind the people of South Sudan and all parties that there is no other way forward in these agreements except to accept dialogue and initiate it among the parties, as it is the only path to save the country from losing its legitimacy,” Hon Mayen said.

“The Juba Initiative does not aim to renegotiate the agreement but rather to review pending issues and overcome obstacles.”  

Majongdit emphasized that the country is facing a critical phase, especially as the second and final extension of the transitional period nears its end. He pointed out that the agreement was designed to lay the foundations for a democratic transition through end-of-term elections and to address issues of security, governance, and justice. However, its implementation remains significantly stalled, particularly in the security sector.  

He warned of escalating senseless conflicts in various regions of the country, stressing that dialogue is the only way to save the government from losing its legitimacy.  

“We in the Other Political Parties bloc believe that, regardless of grievances, there must be a platform for dialogue and negotiation.”