JUBA, May 25 (Xinhua.GNA) — African diplomats have called for inclusive dialogue among all parties in South Sudan, ahead of the country’s highly anticipated general elections scheduled for December.
The diplomats, speaking at a news conference in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, on Sunday evening, emphasized the importance of peace, stability, and democracy in the country.
“We hope that as it does, it will also ensure that effective and inclusive dialogue among all parties in South Sudan takes place,” said Mahlodi Sam Muofhe, South African ambassador to South Sudan.
Muofhe said South Sudan’s transition toward its first democratic elections since independence in 2011, requires political consensus and broad stakeholder participation to ensure credibility.
He added that the AU High-Level Ad hoc Committee for South Sudan, chaired by South Africa, continues to support preparations for the upcoming December polls.
Abdiweli Ali, AU special representative and head of mission to South Sudan, said the continental body has intensified diplomatic engagements with South Sudan to support peace and stability.
Ali expressed optimism about South Sudan’s future, noting its rich natural and human resources. However, he emphasized that peace and good governance are essential for development.
GNA