Ruto suspends South Sudan peace talks, cites Juba's request

President William Ruto has suspended mediation talks for South Sudan at Juba’s request, saying they will resume in March 2025 after consultations.

 “After extensive discussions with the Opposition Hold-Out Group and at the request of the South Sudan Government delegation, we have agreed to adjourn the Nairobi process until March 2025 to allow for consultations that will inform the way forward,” said Ruto in a statement on his X account on Thursday.

 Kenya has facilitated the mediation process for the past 11 months at the request of President Salva Kiir Mayardit, aiming to resolve the political stalemate that has led to a humanitarian crisis and security challenges.

 The opposition delegation was led by General Pagan Amum and included General Paul Malong, General Stephen Buoy, General Mario Lada, Mr Lual Dau, and Dr Cirinho Hiteng.

 Following Ruto’s statement, Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), alongside political and armed groups, cancelled a planned press conference in Nairobi.

 The event was set to announce the formation of the Sudan Founding Alliance (TASIS), a parallel government in RSF-controlled areas.

 

On Wednesday, Kenya defended its decision to host the RSF in Nairobi despite criticism from the Sudanese government.

 The RSF, a paramilitary group fighting Sudan’s army for control, held an event in Nairobi on Tuesday to discuss plans for the parallel government, which Sudan’s leadership condemned as interference in its internal affairs.

 Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, in a statement, said Kenya’s actions aligned with its broader role in regional peace efforts and commitment to supporting Sudan in resolving its political crisis.