By Nakwam Rose
South Sudan Civil Society Forum (SSCSF) is urging various civil society organizations and stakeholders to come together and support efforts aimed at alleviating the ongoing turmoil gripping the nation.
In a press release dated March 27, 2025, SSCSF convened a gathering that brought together over 200 representatives from diverse civil society organizations.
This meeting was organized to address the escalating violence that has been spreading across South Sudan as well as to explore collaborative strategies to effectively combat this crisis.
SSCSF expressed concern that the recent deployment of the Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF) has intensified the existing conflicts, further complicating the already fragile situation.
The organizations articulated a strong belief that these developments could jeopardize the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), potentially leading to its complete disintegration.
“This is fueled by the military confrontations of the SPLM/IGG and SPLM/IO, further exacerbated by the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF). These factors have placed the R-ARCSS in a precarious position, threatening its collapse,” SSCSF stated.
In light of these pressing concerns, SSCSF calls upon both the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the SPLM/A in Opposition (SPLM/IO) to cease hostilities and pursue dialogue.
They urge the Vice President and the President to engage in meaningful discussions to resolve their differences peacefully.
Moreover, they implore the guarantors of the R-ARCSS, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the East African Community (EAC), the African Union (AU), the TROIKA nations, and the United Nations (UN), to take immediate and decisive action to uphold the agreement.
The SSCSF also appeals to both regional and international communities to lend their support to faith-based leaders who are working diligently to safeguard the R-ARCSS.
Additionally, they emphasize the need for humanitarian agencies to provide vital assistance to those affected by the conflict, and they encourage citizens to refrain from spreading misinformation that could exacerbate fear and division among the populace.
Furthermore, the SSCSF pledges its commitment to support faith-based leaders in their diplomatic endeavours, ensuring the welfare of all citizens, while actively mobilizing various communities to adopt a unified stance of “enough is enough.”
In its statement, the Civil Society Forum emphasized that the ongoing crisis in South Sudan transcends mere political disagreements; it reflects a profound mistrust among leaders and continuous violations of the peace agreement.
This situation highlights a stark “failure of governance,” ultimately betraying the hopes of the people and undermining their aspirations for independence.
Amidst this political turmoil, the South Sudan Civil Society Forum commends faith-based leaders for their resilience and dedication in standing by the nation during challenging times.
Additionally, the organizations extends its gratitude to all organizations involved in rallying for peace, appreciating their courage in advocating for constructive dialogue among the signatories of the peace accord.
The call to action remains clear: South Sudan must awaken in unity to assert its rights, denouncing conflict and embracing the path to lasting peace.