By Philip Buda Ladu
East African Civil Society Organizations Forum (EACSOF) has issued a strong appeal for peace and stability in South Sudan and the wider region, expressing deep concern over recent unsettling developments in the country.
In a statement released over the weekend, EACSOF President Mr. Edmund Yakani highlighted reports of the house arrest of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and the resurgence of violent clashes in the Upper Nile region as serious threats to the fragile peace process.
While acknowledging the “commendable efforts” of South Sudanese leaders, regional actors, and international partners in advancing peace since the signing of the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (RARCSS), EACSOF emphasized that the journey towards lasting peace remains ongoing and requires sustained commitment and inclusive dialogue.
However, the forum voiced its “deep concern” over the recent events, stating that they “pose a serious threat to the fragile gains achieved since the signing of the 2018 Revitalized Agreement and risk eroding the foundations of trust and cooperation that have been painstakingly built among key stakeholders.”
EACSOF president further warned that these actions could destabilize not only South Sudan but also compromise peace and security across the broader East African region.
In light of these concerns, EACSOF issued a three-pronged call to action:
The forum “respectfully urged” all leaders to “exercise maximum restraint, demonstrate political maturity, and recommit to the principles of peaceful dialogue and inclusive governance.”
The EACSOF stressed that “a return to constructive engagement is essential to safeguarding national unity and ensuring long term regional stability.”
To the East African Community (EAC), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the African Union (AU): EACSOF called upon these regional bodies to “play an active and constructive role in facilitating renewed dialogue among South Sudanese leaders.”
It emphasized that “regional and continental solidarity is essential to prevent further escalation and to preserve the progress made under the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.”
However, EACSOF also stressed the importance of impartiality, transparency, and respect for South Sudan’s sovereignty in these engagements, affirming its readiness to support a “people-centered, peaceful resolution.”
Meanwhile, to the Current Chair of the EAC Summit (Republic of Kenya): EACSOF urged Kenya to “employ immediate measures to de-escalate the rising tensions in South Sudan” by engaging political leaders to find solutions to the growing political unrest and reminding them of their commitment to the EAC Treaty in ensuring peace and security for the people of South Sudan.
EACSOF president, Mr. Yakani underscored EACSOF’s unwavering commitment to supporting initiatives that advance peace, stability, and development in South Sudan and the wider East African region.
He acknowledged the “formidable” challenges but also highlighted the “critical opportunity” for South Sudanese leaders to “rise above division, exercise statesmanship, and reaffirm their genuine commitment to the aspirations of their people.”
Mr. Yakani said, “Peace is not imposed it is nurtured through inclusive dialogue, courageous leadership, and the collective will of a nation’s people. At EACSOF, we believe that sustainable peace begins when communities are heard, leaders are accountable, and justice becomes the foundation for unity. We remain committed to walking alongside the people of South Sudan and the region in building bridges where conflict once stood.”
The statement, signed by Mr. Edmund Yakani on April 11, 2025, reflects the growing concern within the East African civil society over the potential derailment of the South Sudan peace process and its implications for regional stability.