South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Wednesday to discuss the upcoming South Sudan elections and efforts to advance the country’s peace process.
The meeting took place in Tshwane, South Africa, as preparations continue for South Sudan’s presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for December 22.
According to Africanews and the Associated Press, the two leaders focused on implementing the 2018 peace agreement, strengthening political dialogue and addressing challenges ahead of the vote.
South Sudan elections face key challenges
The talks followed regional discussions led by Ramaphosa on South Sudan’s readiness to hold elections in December.
Ramaphosa chairs the African Union’s High-Level Ad Hoc Committee on South Sudan, which supports efforts to implement the country’s peace agreement.
The committee recently discussed whether the necessary conditions are in place for the elections to proceed.
Ramaphosa has urged South Sudan to address outstanding political, security and logistical challenges.
He has also stressed the importance of ensuring that the electoral process is peaceful, credible and inclusive.
Leaders discuss 2018 peace agreement
The meeting also focused on implementing the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement.
The agreement remains central to South Sudan’s political transition and efforts to achieve lasting stability.
Both leaders discussed the importance of political dialogue as the country prepares for its scheduled elections.
South Africa is also expected to support South Sudan’s electoral process.
Regional efforts to support peace
The African Union continues to play a role in supporting South Sudan’s peace process.
Ramaphosa’s involvement reflects ongoing regional efforts to encourage political dialogue and address challenges affecting the country’s transition.
With the December 22 vote approaching, preparations for the South Sudan elections remain closely linked to progress on the peace agreement.
The discussions in Tshwane highlighted the importance of resolving outstanding issues before voters head to the polls.