South Sudan prioritises elections over Tumaini process

By Debora Akur Chol ,South Sudan

South Sudan has shifted its immediate focus toward preparations for general elections and strengthening internal political dialogue, placing less emphasis on the Kenya-led Tumaini Initiative .

The Tumaini Initiative ‘’hope” in Kiswahili was launched in May 2024 under the facilitation of Kenya to bring together the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU) and non-signatory opposition groups to the 2018 peace agreement.

However, the process stalled in February 2025. Planned resumption talks in Nairobi earlier this year were later paused amid deliberations during the African Union summit in Addis Ababa and meetings of the AU C5 committee led by South Africa.

Speaking during a weekly press briefing in Juba, Foreign Affairs spokesperson Thomas Kenneth Elisapana acknowledged Kenya’s mediation efforts but emphasised the government’s current priorities.

“While we recognise the efforts of Kenya in pursuing peace, our focus now is on consolidating stability through elections and inclusive political dialogue,” he said.

He noted that the dialogue process has received backing from the African Union and other international partners.

South Sudan is preparing to hold general elections in December 2026 a development the government describes as central to its diplomatic engagements and internal political roadmap.

“The country is getting prepared for the general elections to take place in December 2026,” Elisapana said.

He added that ongoing diplomatic outreach is aimed at strengthening relations with international partners, stressing that cooperation remains vital for political, security and economic progress.

“No country can stand alone. Engagement with partners is key to advancing national

interests,” he said.