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Hassan Sheikh Mohamud urges immediate cessation of hostilities and dialogue as IGAD leaders discuss measures to stabilize South Sudan
Mogadishu (HOL) – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took part in the 43rd Extraordinary Virtual Assembly of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) on Wednesday. The meeting focused on the worsening security and political crisis in South Sudan, as regional leaders sought solutions to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
During the assembly, President Mohamud reaffirmed Somalia’s unwavering commitment to fostering peace and stability in South Sudan. He strongly advocated for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged all parties involved to return to the negotiation table to resolve their differences through dialogue.
“Somalia unequivocally calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, de-escalation, and a return to dialogue. Peace and stability must be prioritized to safeguard the future of the South Sudanese people,” President Mohamud emphasized in his address.
The IGAD summit, which brought together heads of state and government from across the region, aimed to formulate urgent measures to address the ongoing conflict. The discussions focused on preventing an escalation of violence and fostering political reconciliation among the warring factions.
Somalia has been actively engaged in regional diplomatic efforts to support peace in South Sudan. President Mohamud reiterated Somalia’s dedication to promoting stability, urging all stakeholders in the conflict to embrace constructive dialogue as the only viable path to a peaceful resolution.
In recent engagements, Somalia assured both South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar of its commitment to supporting ongoing regional talks aimed at fostering lasting peace and prosperity in South Sudan. These diplomatic initiatives align with IGAD’s broader objectives of ensuring political stability and security across the Horn of Africa.
The recent surge in violence in South Sudan has raised significant concerns among regional leaders and international stakeholders. Earlier this month, tensions escalated when security forces loyal to President Kiir arrested two government ministers and several senior military officials associated with opposition leader Riek Machar. These arrests have heightened fears of a deepening political crisis and further destabilization of the fragile peace process.
The arrests came in the wake of violent clashes between South Sudanese national forces and the White Army militia in the northern town of Nasir. The White Army is a well-known armed group predominantly composed of fighters from Machar’s ethnic Nuer community. The militia has played a significant role in past conflicts, often engaging in retaliatory attacks in response to political and ethnic tensions.
The resurgence of violence underscores the fragility of the peace agreement signed between Kiir and Machar in 2018, which was meant to end years of civil war. Despite numerous ceasefire agreements, sporadic outbreaks of violence have continued to undermine the stability of the country.
During the virtual summit, IGAD leaders emphasized the need for immediate de-escalation and constructive dialogue to prevent South Sudan from sliding back into full-scale conflict. The regional body urged both President Kiir and Machar to exercise restraint and engage in diplomatic discussions to address their political and security grievances.
President Mohamud echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of regional collaboration in addressing conflicts. He underscored the role of IGAD in facilitating mediation efforts and called upon the international community to support peace initiatives in South Sudan.
“Somalia stands in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in South Sudan. We believe that through dialogue and regional cooperation, sustainable peace can be achieved,” President Mohamud stated.
The latest crisis in South Sudan presents a significant challenge for IGAD and the broader international community. The country, which gained independence in 2011, has been plagued by conflict for much of its existence. The power struggle between Kiir and Machar has fueled ethnic and political tensions, leading to devastating humanitarian consequences.
As IGAD leaders continue their efforts to mediate the conflict, Somalia’s participation highlights its growing role in regional diplomacy. By advocating for peace in South Sudan, President Mohamud reinforces Somalia’s commitment to fostering stability across the Horn of Africa.
Moving forward, regional stakeholders will need to intensify their mediation efforts to prevent further violence and ensure that the South Sudanese people can finally experience lasting peace. The international community is also expected to play a crucial role in supporting reconciliation efforts and ensuring that all parties adhere to their commitments under previous peace agreements.
The IGAD summit concluded with a strong call for unity and cooperation among regional leaders to address South Sudan’s crisis effectively. Somalia’s active engagement in these discussions demonstrates its commitment to regional stability and its willingness to contribute to the broader peace process in the Horn of Africa.