President William Ruto has suspended mediation talks for South Sudan at Juba’s request, with the process set to resume in March 2025 after further 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,” Ruto said 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 impasse that has fueled a humanitarian crisis and security challenges in South Sudan.
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 announcement, Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), alongside political and armed groups, cancelled a scheduled press conference in Nairobi. The event was expected to announce the formation of the Sudan Founding Alliance (TASIS), a parallel government in RSF-controlled areas.
Kenya has come under scrutiny for hosting the RSF in Nairobi, with the Sudanese government criticizing the move as interference in its internal affairs.
On Wednesday, Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi defended Kenya’s decision, stating that the country’s engagement aligns with its broader role in regional peace efforts and commitment to supporting Sudan in resolving its political crisis.
