By Bida Elly David
South Sudan National Movement for Change (SSNMC) urges peace partners to advocate for political space and non-aggression towards opponents as the agreement comes to an end.
Chairperson of the political party, Moro Isaac Jenesio made the call in a statement issued to mark the 7th anniversary.
“There is need for the implementation of the directives of President Kiir on opening up of political space and non-aggression towards political opponents,” Moro said in the statement.
Moro stated that restricting or blocking political parties from exercising their rights dictates civil and political freedom.
“I call upon signatories and guarantors to the peace agreement to start the process of building consensus on critical issues through dialogue,” Moro said.
According to him, reinstating suspended or dismissed peace partners by their opponents is crucial.
“There is a need for leaders to implement joint visits to states to reassure citizens of the hope of peaceful, free, and fair elections,” he added.
The SSNMC also urges its partners to prioritize and actualize reconciliation among leaders, warring communities, and the entire people of South Sudan.
This, according to Moro, will help define consensus.
Last year, a political event organized by the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) was canceled because they failed to seek official approval.
Meanwhile, Executive Director of Community Empowerment Organization (CEPO), Edmund Yakani, had previously cautioned against scale-up in cases of restrictions of civic and political space across the country.
Yakani believes that all directives of the government leaders touching open civic and political space are often undermined by some authorities.
In October 2022, President Kiir directed state governors, chief administrators of administrative areas, and county commissioners to observe the opening of political and civic space for inclusive public participation.
He urged political leaders to embrace freedom of expression, assembly, association, and media consultative dialogue.