UN Security Council Holds Session on Developments in South Sudan

Sudanhorizon – Agencies

The UN Security Council is set to hold an open briefing today, Tuesday, followed by closed consultations, regarding political, security, and humanitarian developments in South Sudan. The discussions come amid preparations for elections scheduled for December 22—the first such polls since the country gained independence in 2011.

Council members are expected to hear briefings from Anita Kiki Gbeho, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS); Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, the African Union High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea; and a representative from civil society.

The deliberations will cover election preparations, transitional arrangements, disputes over the implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, and ways to foster the political and security conditions necessary for holding peaceful and inclusive elections.

The session takes place against a backdrop of escalating political tensions, following a decision by President Salva Kiir Mayardit on September 22 to dissolve the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity, dismiss the vice presidents, establish a caretaker administration, and dissolve national legislative bodies.

These developments coincide with a worsening humanitarian crisis. According to UN estimates, approximately 2.5 million people are facing emergency levels of food insecurity, while 73,300 people are in a state of catastrophe. Furthermore, at least 39 humanitarian workers and contractors have been killed since the beginning of the year. Members of the Security Council are expected to call on the parties to adhere to the 2018 peace agreement, resume an inclusive political dialogue, and create the conditions for credible elections, in addition to strengthening security, protecting civilians, and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid.

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