South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile has concluded a two-day working visit to South Sudan where leaders of the transitional government reaffirmed their commitment to holding credible elections in December 2026 and fully implementing the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict (R-ARCSS).
Mashatile met with President Salva Kiir, Vice-President Benjamin Boi Mel and other signatory parties to the peace agreement, which was signed in September 2018 to end years of civil conflict.
The agreement outlines key reforms including the drafting of a new constitution, transitional security arrangements, and preparations for national elections.
“the parties expressed confidence in the Revitalised Agreement as the only existing instrument to facilitate the transition to a peaceful, stable and prosperous future,” the Presidency said in a statement.
South Sudanese leaders also pledged to avoid political tensions that could undermine security and emphasized the need to create conditions conducive to free and fair elections.
South Africa has played a longstanding role in supporting peace and reconciliation efforts in South Sudan, including through mediation, capacity building, and diplomatic engagement.
Mashatile’s visit was aimed at assessing progress on the ground and reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to the country’s transition.
During his stay, Mashatile paid a courtesy visit to Vice President Mama Rebecca Nyandeng de Mabior, widow of the late Dr John Garang de Mabior, founding leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement.
She urged South Africa to remain actively engaged in the peace process.
JN/APA