UN says “no appetite” for another transitional period extension in South Sudan

February 5, 2025 (JUBA) – There is need for South Sudanese leaders to focus on the benchmarks set out in the peace agreement without further delay, Nicholas Haysom, the head of the United Nations Mission in the country (UNMISS) told the Security Council on Wednesday.

“There is no appetite for another extension,” he said, acknowledging progress in some areas while welcoming the declarations of governors to expand the civic and political space in their states.

Briefing the Security Council on Wednesday, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for South Sudan stressed that while the country’s citizens have been patient, they expect progress.

“There is a strong desire for the leaders to focus on the benchmarks set out in the peace agreement – without further delay,” he remarked.

Haysom urged South Sudan’s leaders to accelerate security sector reform, electoral preparations, and reform of the constitution and judicial processes.

“The clock is already ticking on the extended transitional period. Decision-makers need to tackle several issues simultaneously and immediately,” he emphasised.

The top UN official said despite some achievements, major gaps persist, especially concerning elections scheduled for December 2026.

He said while a framework for security sector management and a national community violence reduction strategy have been adopted, critical conditions remain unmet, citing the full deployment of unified security forces, voter education, and a code of conduct between political parties and other stakeholders.

“We have not yet seen the previously promised harmonized work plan with an operational timetable for elections,” said Haysom.

He said that delays in government funding and decision-making are further impeding progress.

According to Haysom, communal violence remains a major driver of insecurity in South Sudan, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, including women and children.

“Recent clashes between armed groups in Western Equatoria, along with widespread reports of illegal checkpoints, highlight the fragility of the security environment,” he stated.

During the briefing, Haysom said the constitution-making and census timelines do not currently fit into the framework for a December 2026 election, adding that lack of government funding as well as delayed legal and political decisions are slowing down these necessary processes.

“The parties should be under no illusions that there will be resources from the international community to sponsor the implementation of the peace agreement, ending with elections, if there is no evidence of political will to accelerate implementation of the key benchmarks,” he said.

Haysom also warned that as South Sudan continues to grapple with humanitarian, economic and security challenges, the situation will remain fragile as an electoral period draws nearer.

The top UN official said the mission is continuing to robustly protect civilians, enhance human rights and the rule of law, as well as support the peace process, within its mandate and capacities.

“I affirm that UNMISS stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the people of South Sudan on their journey from conflict to stabilization and democratization,” he stated.

Haysom further highlighted some logistical and operational challenges faced by UNMISS, including a recent government request for the Mission to vacate part of its headquarters.

He said UNMISS is working collaboratively with South Sudan government to find a resolution.

(ST)