United Nations (TDI): As South Sudan enters a so-called “extended transitional period” this month, Pakistan called for using the 2-year extension to move towards a credible path to elections that would enable the troubled country to meet its multiple challenges.
“We understand that there is no desire to further delay the polls, scheduled in 2026”, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador Munir Akram told the UN Security Council.
Noting that South Sudan continues to grapple with major crises resulting from a dire humanitarian situation, dropping oil revenues, attacks by militant groups, inter-communal violence, the influx of refugees, returnees from Sudan, cholera epidemic and catastrophic climate events, he highlighted the importance of the process to engage with non-signatory actors of the revitalized deal that allows the opportunity for inclusion and confidence-building measures.
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“While respecting South Sudan’s security, we note with concern the slow progress on devising a clear, actionable, and financially backed roadmap to complete difficult tasks, including the unification of forces, transitional security arrangements, and the constitution-making process,” Akram said.
Appreciating the sacrifices and efforts of the Blue Helmets serving UNMISS, the UN Peacekeeping mission, Pakistan’s envoy underlined its role to consolidate peace, stability, development and nation-building in South Sudan.
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“We encourage the South Sudanese government to cooperate fully with UNMISS in the performance of its mandate and meeting its operational requirements,” he said, expressing concern over the government request by for the partial vacation of UNMISS Headquarters as it entails considerable costs and logistical challenges.
