A recent meeting between South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar has ended in what some are calling a “deadlock.” The meeting, which took place on March 9th, was aimed at resolving key outstanding issues related to the implementation of the peace agreement signed in 2018. However, according to Machar’s aides, the outcome of the meeting was not favorable, and the use of the term “deadlock” is a correct way to describe the situation.
The 2018 peace agreement was signed between the South Sudanese government and opposition groups in an effort to end years of conflict and violence in the country. The agreement established a power-sharing arrangement between President Kiir and Machar, who was appointed as the first vice president. However, the implementation of the peace agreement has been slow and fraught with challenges.
The recent meeting between President Kiir and Machar was seen as a critical step in the implementation of the peace agreement. The meeting was aimed at resolving key outstanding issues related to the formation of a transitional government, including the number of states and the appointment of state governors. However, according to Machar’s aides, the meeting did not result in any concrete progress.
Machar’s aides have stated that the use of the term “deadlock” is a correct way to describe the outcome of the meeting. They have also accused President Kiir of being unwilling to compromise on key issues, and have called on the international community to intervene and help move the peace process forward.
The use of the term “deadlock” to describe the outcome of the meeting has sparked concerns among some observers that the peace process may be in jeopardy. The slow progress in the implementation of the peace agreement has already led to a number of setbacks, including the collapse of the transitional government in 2020. If the current impasse continues, it could lead to further instability and violence in the country.
The international community has played a critical role in supporting the peace process in South Sudan. The United Nations, the African Union, and other key actors have provided funding, technical support, and political pressure to help move the peace process forward. However, more needs to be done to address the key outstanding issues and ensure that the peace agreement is fully implemented.
The recent meeting between President Kiir and Machar may have ended in a deadlock, but it is important that the international community continue to support the peace process in South Sudan. The use of the term “deadlock” is a reminder of the challenges that still need to be overcome, but it should also serve as a call to action for all stakeholders to redouble their efforts to achieve lasting peace in the country.