What is the AU, IGAD delegation doing in South Sudan?
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Synopsis
A high-level delegation from the African Union and IGAD has arrived in South Sudan to mediate peace talks amid rising tensions. With ongoing violence and political unrest, their mission aims to foster dialogue between the transitional government and opposition forces, making this visit crucial for the stability of the region.
Key Takeaways
- AU and IGAD delegation arrives in South Sudan.
- Focus on mediating peace talks between the government and opposition.
- Meetings scheduled with key government officials.
- Recent violence highlights the urgency of their mission.
- Uncertain future for opposition leader Riek Machar.
Juba, May 6 (NationPress) A significant delegation from the African Union (AU) and the regional organization Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has landed in South Sudan, with the objective of bolstering peace negotiations between the transitional unity government and the opposition.
The delegation, headed by AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and IGAD Deputy Executive Secretary Mohamed Abdi Ware, is set to engage with South Sudan's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Monday Semaya Kumba, as stated in an announcement from the foreign ministry in Juba, the nation's capital.
The visiting officials are also expected to hold discussions with President Salva Kiir's senior advisor, Kuol Manyang Juuk, followed by a meeting with the president himself, according to reports from Xinhua news agency.
However, it is uncertain if the delegation will have a session with opposition leader Riek Machar, who has been under house arrest since March.
This visit follows a recent attack on a hospital operated by the humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders and a market in Old Fangak, located in South Sudan's Jonglei State, resulting in the tragic deaths of seven individuals.
In early March, tensions escalated between the South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the opposition Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) due to severe clashes in Nasir County, located in Upper Nile State. The SSPDF accused the SPLM/A-IO of provoking the White Army militia to attack its positions in Upper Nile, an allegation that the latter denied.
The rising tensions led to the arrest of Machar and several of his close political and military associates on charges of inciting rebellion in the country.
Point of View
Our commitment remains with the people of South Sudan. The arrival of the AU and IGAD delegation is a positive step towards fostering dialogue and ensuring peace. However, the political landscape remains complex, and we must closely monitor the developments that follow.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the AU and IGAD delegation's visit?
The delegation aims to mediate peace talks between the transitional unity government and the opposition in South Sudan.
Who is leading the delegation?
The delegation is led by AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and IGAD Deputy Executive Secretary Mohamed Abdi Ware.
Will the delegation meet with Riek Machar?
It remains uncertain if the delegation will have a meeting with opposition leader Riek Machar, who is currently under house arrest.
What recent events prompted this visit?
The visit follows a recent attack on a hospital and market in Old Fangak, resulting in several fatalities.
What are the recent tensions in South Sudan about?
Tensions have escalated between the SSPDF and SPLM/A-IO due to accusations of inciting violence and rebellion.
