By Yiep Joseph
Vice President for Infrastructure, Taban Deng Gai, has reiterated the government’s commitment to reintegrating all holdout groups through the Tumaini Initiative.
Speaking at the 40th-day prayers for late Gen. Bior Ajang, VP Taban stressed the importance of dialogue in achieving peace and development in the country, saying addressing the grievances of those who are not in the government is important for unity and stability.
“For us to build the country, we need Pagan Amum to come here; we need Thomas Chirillo to come here, and everyone outside there has to come to Juba,” Taban said.
“We (the government) need to bring everyone to the country,” he added.
- VP. Taban revealed that although there is confusion in regard to power sharing, the government is willing to ensure that inclusive peace is achieved.
He said that the government is ready to focus on the Nairobi talks after the extension of the transitional period for two years.
“After extension, we shall now focus and finish the Nairobi talks; that is our position; we are ready for the Tumaini Initiative,” he said.
Vice President Taban revealed that, according to research, many people in the country support the Nairobi talks.
He mentioned that the government will continue its search for inclusive peace in the country.
VP Taban called on the public to dispute claims that the government no longer supports the Nairobi tasks, adding that they are willing to include everyone.
Vice President Taban expressed that the government is working hard to ensure that road ambushes and insecurity, in general, stop before the country goes for an election.
“We need to go for elections when there is not one ambushing people on the streets across the country,” he said.
In his part, Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs Chol Thon called for unity.
He stated that the national army would continue with its role to restore peace and stability in the country.
Since the launch of the “Tumaini Initiative” on May 9, 2024, the political focus in South Sudan has shifted towards the ongoing negotiations in Nairobi.
These talks are being closely watched, with significant hopes pinned on their potential outcomes amidst the country’s numerous internal and external challenges, including political, security, economic, and diplomatic issues.