ODM leader Raila Odinga has expressed optimism that the ongoing crisis in South Sudan will be resolved amicably following his diplomatic mission to Juba. Raila, who traveled to South Sudan on Friday as a special envoy, held discussions with President Salva Kiir to explore pathways to de-escalate tensions in the country.
In a statement after the meeting, Raila highlighted the constructive nature of his dialogue with Kiir, noting that a peaceful resolution remains within reach. “I had a detailed and fruitful discussion with my brother, President Salva Kiir. I am encouraged by the possibility of resolving the conflict. I will be briefing other regional leaders and President William Ruto on my mission and a possible roadmap to sustainable peace and stability,” Raila stated.
His visit comes amid escalating tensions following the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar and his wife, Interior Minister Angelina Teny. Machar’s Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM/IO) has condemned the arrests, warning that they jeopardize the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement that ended South Sudan’s five-year civil war.
President William Ruto, who chairs the East African Community (EAC), has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts to stabilize South Sudan. On Thursday, Ruto held a phone conversation with Kiir and later announced that he had dispatched a special envoy to engage in crisis resolution. Ruto’s move followed consultations with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has also voiced concerns over the situation. Nicholas Haysom, the head of UNMISS, warned that the country stands at a critical juncture. “Tonight, the country’s leaders stand on the brink of relapsing into widespread conflict or taking the country forward towards peace, recovery, and democracy,” Haysom said.
With South Sudan once again facing the threat of civil war, the stakes are high for regional and international diplomatic efforts. Raila’s involvement underscores Kenya’s commitment to peace in the region, as he steps into a crucial role just weeks after his bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship.
As discussions continue, all eyes remain on Juba, hoping for a breakthrough that will prevent further bloodshed and instability in Africa’s youngest nation.
