UN envoy urges South Sudan leaders to choose consensus over confrontation

The Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has called on South Sudanese political leaders to prioritize consensus over confrontation to navigate mounting security and electoral hurdles across the country.

Briefing the UN Security Council in New York, Anita Kiki Gbeho, who is also the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, emphasized that while elections mark an important transition milestone, critical obstacles threaten stability.

Gbeho highlighted ongoing military clashes in Jonglei, widespread intercommunal violence in Warrap and Lakes states, and the trial of Dr. Riek Machar, which has now exceeded 100 court days.

She also drew attention to a sharp rise in danger for aid agencies, reporting that 36 humanitarian workers have been killed in South Sudan this year.

Despite the expanding crisis, the UN chief maintained that the situation remains solvable if political leaders commit to dialogue.

The world body outlined four immediate priorities: an immediate halt to fighting across all regions, full protection for civilians and humanitarian staff, inclusive political dialogue, and an African Union-led assessment of electoral readiness.

“South Sudan faces significant risks, but it also retains a genuine opportunity to change course,” Gbeho told the Council.

“The situation remains serious, but it is not beyond remedy. Clear, consistent and unified action from this Council in support of these priorities would help create political space for compromise, reinforce regional initiatives and encourage South Sudan’s leaders to choose consensus over confrontation.”