By Kidega Livingstone
African People’s Congress (APC), has objected to any proposal to extend the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU) mandate.
In a press statement, Dengbil William Aguor, the Interim President of the APC, described any extension as “arbitrary.”
He criticized the lack of progress in implementing the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) over the past six years.
Aguor argued that any extension goes against the principles of democracy and the will of the South Sudanese people, as some political parties still desire power-sharing instead of holding elections.
“We call on all South Sudanese to take action and stand up against this proposed extension by being present a State House during the deliberation of the extension proposal by the illegitimate and election-phobic Presidency which is due late this month or early next month,” said William.
The APC leader also expressed concern over the current economic hardship in the country, which he attributed to the government’s mismanagement of resources and “runaway corruption,” leading to a 75% shutdown of oil production and a depletion of the country’s financial reserves.
Aguor called for a “lean government” that will prepare the country for a democratic and peaceful transition, based on the resolutions of the 2020 National Dialogue.
He emphasized the need for collective action and a united front to bring about real change and uphold democratic values.
“It’s only through collective action and a united front that we can bring about real change and uphold democratic values. Together, let us stand against arbitrary rule and endless extension and fight for a better future for all South Sudanese,” he said.
The APC’s stance aligns with the concerns raised by the Catholic Bishop of Tombura-Yambio diocese, Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, who expressed deep concern that any extension of the current transitional government would increase the suffering of the South Sudanese people.
The bishop called for the government to be prepared to address the basic needs of the citizens, should the extension be announced.
As the debate over the conduct of elections and proposed extension of the R-TGoNU mandate continues, the APC and other stakeholders have pledged to stand firm against what they perceive as an “arbitrary” and undemocratic move, advocating for a timely and meaningful transition to a democratically elected government.