Activist Yakani renews call for release of political detainees, inclusive dialogue

JUBA – Civil society activist Edmund Yakani has called for the urgent release of political detainees and the initiation of an inclusive national dialogue, warning that South Sudan risks a constitutional crisis if leaders fail to act swiftly on the country’s fragile transition.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Yakani, who heads the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization, said the ongoing political process faces “potential threat” unless stakeholders engage in dialogue without preconditions. His remarks follow the recent visit to Juba by Jakaya Kikwete, the African Union High-Level Representative to the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.

Yakani described Kikwete’s visit as “impressive and motivating,” noting that, unlike previous efforts, the envoy managed to meet all key signatories to the revitalized peace agreement.

He said inclusive engagement among these actors is essential to restoring public confidence in the transition process anchored in the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.

The activist stressed that looming electoral deadlines—particularly the June 22, 2026 benchmark for preparing for elections—are critical in determining whether the country avoids a constitutional and legitimacy crisis ahead of the planned December polls.

Yakani urged leaders in the unity government to operationalize resolutions adopted by the African Union Ad Hoc Committee, warning that delays could derail the extended transitional period. He also referenced earlier decisions under the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission, saying failure to implement agreed measures risks undermining the peace process.

Among key priorities, CEPO called for a sequenced approach to reforms, starting with a sustained ceasefire, the release of detainees, and the launch of a genuinely inclusive dialogue process. Yakani emphasized that such dialogue must involve all stakeholders and be conducted without preconditions to foster trust and consensus.

He further appealed to Kikwete to take a more proactive role in developing a clear action plan for implementing African Union-backed resolutions, including establishing a credible electoral roadmap and addressing funding and humanitarian challenges.

“Any renewal of genuine political commitment must be based on consensus among the rightful signatories,” Yakani said, underscoring the urgency of coordinated action to steer the country toward peaceful elections and lasting stability.