President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of political detainees and the holding of free and fair elections in South Sudan, as he delivered closing remarks at the C5 Meeting at the level of Heads of State in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Addressing fellow leaders on Sunday, Ramaphosa described the meeting as “long in the making” but constructive and necessary, saying it had helped craft a clear way forward for South Sudan’s fragile peace process.
He thanked President Salva Kiir and his delegation for participating and engaging frankly with regional and continental leaders.
“The valuable interventions that have been made here reaffirm our collective commitment and revive our resolve to work with speed despite the challenges that are faced by the Government and people of South Sudan,” Ramaphosa said.
South Sudan has been navigating a complex transition following years of civil conflict, with the Revitalised Peace Agreement serving as the main framework for political reform and elections.
Ramaphosa stressed that the Revitalised Agreement remains the paramount legal instrument by which progress should be measured and urged all parties to comply fully with its provisions. He emphasised that inclusive dialogue, the unification of forces and proper preparation for elections were critical to stability.
Among the key recommendations emerging from the meeting were an immediate end to violence and hostilities, the release of political detainees – including Vice President Riek Machar – and a commitment to ensure that elections proceed without further postponements.
“We encourage inclusive dialogue in accordance with the Revitalised Agreement,” Ramaphosa said, adding that elections must be held on a free and fair basis and include all eligible citizens.
He said regional bodies, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union and the United Nations, would coordinate efforts to monitor and support implementation. The Chairperson of the AU Commission and selected IGAD Heads of State are expected to work alongside the C5 in an oversight role.
Ramaphosa also underscored the need for South Sudan’s government to establish minimum standards to enable citizens to exercise their democratic rights. He highlighted the importance of credible preparatory processes, adequate funding for electoral bodies and meaningful political engagement among all stakeholders.
“As regional leaders and continental leaders, we will do our utmost best to assist South Sudan to transition to a peaceful and stable country,” he said. “However, it is up to the leaders of South Sudan to act in good faith and demonstrate a willingness to undertake an inclusive process.”
Ramaphosa noted that President Kiir had expressed commitment to adhering to the agreed roadmap and had requested support without undue interference.
“That is what support should mean,” Ramaphosa said, adding that South Sudan’s sovereignty must be respected even as the region offers counsel and solidarity.
He concluded by wishing the people of South Sudan well as they prepare for national elections, expressing hope that consistent engagement by the C5, IGAD, the AU and the UN would help the country achieve lasting peace and stability.
