President Salva Kiir Hosts AU-IGAD Delegation in Juba

Meeting with African Union and IGAD

President Salva Kiir Mayardit reportedly held a meeting with a visiting high-level delegation of the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) on Monday that saw senior SPLM-IG officials and Juba-based SPLM-IO acting chairperson, Par Kuol, and his deputy, Losuba Wongo attend.

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Focus on Peace Accord Implementation

The office of the president stated that Monday’s visit, led by African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, focused on expediting implementation of the 2018 peace accord with the aim to enhance “regional peace and security, and drive progressive democratic governance within the country.”

Importance of the Meeting

In a statement, Presidential Affairs Minister Chol Mawut Ajongo reportedly acknowledged the meeting’s “significance in strengthening diplomatic and political engagement with the government and other stakeholders and acquiring firsthand information on the current state of affairs in the country.”

Commitment to Peace and Democracy

On his part, AU Chairperson Youssouf is said to have reaffirmed that their Juba’s mission was “one of solidarity to stand by the people and the government in their efforts toward implementation of the peace accord.” The AU-IGAD team leader implored South Sudanese leaders to work together to complete the transitional roadmap and lead the country to democratic elections.

Continental and Regional Support

“The visit by AU and IGAD, demonstrates the determination of the continental and regional institutions to ensure South Sudan realizes peace, stability, and democracy,” reported Kiir’s office.

Constructive Engagement

In a post on its Facebook page, the Chairperson of the AU Commission reportedly said he had a constructive engagement with President Salva Kiir Mayardit at the State House this (Monday) afternoon. According to the report, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, head of the AU-IGAD high-level delegation, reaffirmed the African Union’s unwavering commitment to peace, dialogue, & reconciliation.

Government Officials Present

Among government officials present at the meeting were Cabinet Affairs Minister Dr Martin Elia Lomuro, spokesperson Michael Makuei Lueth, and Foreign Minister Monday Simaya Kumba, among others.

AU Chairperson shakes hands with President Salva Kiir in a two-day visit on Monday|Courtesy