IGAD and other regional and international bodies urge peace parties to address tension. [File/IGAD]

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development, IGAD, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting South Sudan’s peace process and election preparations following a meeting between President Salva Kiir and the regional bloc’s Special Envoy, Ambassador Moussa Djama Ali, in Juba on Wednesday.

Ambassador Moussa Djama Ali, accompanied by the IGAD Head of Mission to South Sudan, Dr. Victoria Anib, met President Salva Kiir Mayardit as part of the regional body’s continued engagement in support of the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement and South Sudan’s transition to democratic governance.

According to a statement issued by IGAD, the Special Envoy conveyed greetings and best wishes from IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu and the Chairperson of IGAD, Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh.

The statement said discussions focused on recent political developments, progress in implementing the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, preparations for elections, and efforts to advance a peaceful, inclusive and democratic transition.

The parties emphasized the need for sustained political dialogue and confidence-building measures to strengthen peace and stability in the country.

In the statement, IGAD said it had reaffirmed its commitment to supporting South Sudan in the implementation of the peace agreement and in creating conditions necessary for what it described as “peaceful, credible, inclusive and transparent elections.”

The regional bloc noted that its engagement forms part of broader efforts to accompany South Sudan throughout the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement and the country’s democratic transition.

President Salva Kiir welcomed IGAD’s continued involvement and, according to the statement, reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing the peace process and working closely with regional and international partners.

The statement quoted President Kiir as reaffirming the government’s commitment to “advancing the peace process and working closely with regional and international partners in support of the successful implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.”

The meeting comes as South Sudan continues preparations for elections and implementation of key provisions of the 2018 peace agreement aimed at restoring lasting peace and democratic governance in the country.