A one-day political forum aimed at promoting peace, rebuilding trust and strengthening cooperation between political parties was held in Yambio, Western Equatoria State, on Thursday. The event was in response to rising tensions and insecurity in the state capital and surrounding areas following President Salva Kiir’s decision to dismiss the state governor, General Alfred Futuyo Karaba, a member of the opposition party Riek Machar-led SPLM-IO.
Karaba’s removal led to an attack on his home by forces linked to the military, which also targeted several state officials. Despite these challenges, both President Kiir and First Vice President Machar are working together to implement the 2018 peace agreement that unites various political factions, including Kiir’s SPLM, the SPLM-IO, the opposition alliance (SSOA) and other parties.
To ease tensions, the ruling SPLM’s Interim Governor Daniel Badagbu convened the forum that brought together leaders from all political parties. Badagbu described the meeting as historic, stressing its role in promoting cooperation and ensuring stability following the removal of Governor Karaba.
“This forum was very important in strengthening our working relationships and addressing the tensions that arose,” Badagbu said. He assured all political parties of their safety, stressing the government’s commitment to ensuring security and promoting unity to effectively implement the peace agreement.
Badagbu also stressed the importance of creating a peaceful and stable environment, ensuring the protection of civilians, reducing political tensions and maintaining functional government institutions.
Representing the SPLM-IO, Mary John Osman reiterated the party’s commitment to the government and the 2018 peace agreement, calling for calm and unity. He stressed that political stability was key and called on leaders to embrace tolerance and respect.
Simon Parakit, speaking on behalf of the Other Political Parties (OPP), supported the forum and stressed the need for peace, security and the return of SPLM-IO members who fled the region.
The forum concluded with a call for dialogue, cooperation and a renewed commitment to the 2018 peace agreement, which aims to achieve stability, inclusiveness and political harmony in Western Equatoria.