During an International Peace Day event in Juba, the cultural diversity of South Sudan was showcased through vibrant performances by multiple ethnic groups. However, the focus was on the collective desire for peace, democracy, and a brighter future that drew the most attention.
Everlyne Batista, a nineteen-year-old performer, expressed that participating in the event was a chance to leave the trauma of conflict behind and embrace feelings of unity and hope.
“With peace, I can go to school, I can live without the stress I had before, including losing my relatives. That is the good news of the peace that I am enjoying now, even though everything is not all well. I want peace in South Sudan.”
Discussions at the event were dominated by politics among the country’s leaders, civil society, and international peace partners, particularly regarding the extension of the transitional period of the government and the postponement of elections for another two years.
Civil society representative Edmund Yakani, wearing a hat with the slogan ‘peace is a right not a privilege,’ delivered a passionate speech about the impact of the decision on the people of South Sudan.
The European Union representative explained why they did not support a resolution to extend the transitional period at a recent meeting, emphasizing the need for South Sudan to move forward with its transition and democratization.
First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny outlined the reasons for the extension, including finalizing the unification of forces, facilitating the return of refugees, and resolving conflicts to ensure a conducive environment for peaceful and transparent elections.
Various speakers, including the Troika and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, expressed disappointment at the failure to implement key benchmarks in the peace agreement and stressed the importance of peace and legitimate elections for the country’s future.
The theme of this year’s event, “Nurturing a culture of peace: our collective responsibility,” highlighted the need for shared ambitions and aspirations for sustainable peace in South Sudan.
Acting Minister of Peacebuilding Losuba Wongo emphasized the collective responsibility of every individual in nurturing peace and unity in the country.
Overall, the event underscored the challenges and opportunities for South Sudan to achieve lasting peace and democracy through unity, dialogue, and political will.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).