Salva Kirr calls for unity in South Sudan, urges opposition to return to Nairobi Tumaini Initiative peace talks

South Sudanese President Salva Kiir has called on opposition parties to demonstrate patriotism and prioritise the nation's interests by re-joining the Nairobi Tumaini Peace Initiative.

The peace process, which stalled due to political disagreements, will resume on January 7, 2025.

In his New Year's address to the nation, Kiir declared that the coming year should mark a turning point for South Sudan.

"The year 2025 will be a year of unity of purpose toward comprehensive peace in our nation," he said.

Acknowledging the delicate nature of the transitional government, which comprises various parties to the peace agreement, Kiir appealed to opposition leaders to set aside their differences for the greater good.

"I ask our brothers in the opposition to show patriotism and put the interests of our country first," he urged.

Kiir emphasised the need for inclusivity in the peace process.

"I do not see it just to leave any party behind or isolate some of the existing parties to the agreement," he said.

The South Sudan president also called for compromise and a shift in focus from political rivalry to leadership.

“Politics is cast on positions seeking and self-interest, but leadership is about vision for a better tomorrow for the next generation," he said.

Despite these aspirations, Kiir acknowledged South Sudan's ongoing challenges, particularly the failure to hold its first-ever general elections, originally scheduled for December 2024.

Internal conflicts, resource constraints, and capacity issues have delayed the polls, which are now slated for December 2026.

The elections are seen as a critical milestone in South Sudan's journey toward stability and democratic governance.

Kiir's appeal for unity and leadership comes at a pivotal moment for the world's youngest nation, which continues to grapple with the legacy of conflict and political instability.