By Kidega Livingstone/ Bida Elly David
President Salva Kiir called for a reconsideration of the arms embargo, describing it as a necessary step towards achieving lasting peace and stability in the country.
On delivering an address to the African Union Heads of State Assembly, Kiir highlighted the progress achieved in implementing the September 2018 peace deal and preparations for upcoming elections in South Sudan and other challenges that ahead.
He also noted that the unity government is committed to the peace process and democratic transition.
The UN Security Council recently extended the sanctions regime, including asset freezes, travel bans, and an arms embargo, on South Sudan for another year.
President Kiir’s plea for lifting the arms embargo resonated as a crucial factor in the country’s journey towards sustainable nation-building.
In another development, he also urged collective efforts to address conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan, stressing the importance of peace promotion in the Great Lakes region and the Horn of Africa.
He called on the leadership of the African Union to work together in bringing peace to affected African countries, particularly in troubled countries like Sudan and the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, according to the office of the president.
As the chairperson of the East African Community, President Kiir demonstrated his commitment to promoting development within the member countries during the summit.
In sideline meetings with regional leaders, President Kiir discussed bilateral relations and building consensus through dialogue as a mechanism to end conflicts.
Upon returning to Juba after the African Union Summit, President Kiir was received by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny and other government officials.