Read 2 minutes

The special representative of the United Nations Secretary General to South Sudan, David Shearer, has said the reduction of violence in the country has revealed a “glimmer of what’s possible with peace.”

Shearer made the remarks at a UN Security Council meeting on Tuesday, where delegates urged the South Sudan factions to use the time afforded by the extended period in which to form a transitional Government to resolve thorny outstanding issues.

Shearer, who is also the Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), said the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement continues to progress and the ceasefire continues to hold, except in Central Equatoria.

“The drop in political violence […] has meant hundreds, if not thousands, of people are alive who would not otherwise be,” he said.

The UN Secretary General’s special representative noted that more than half a million people – including some 210,000 who fled to neighbouring countries – have returned since the peace agreement was signed.

He however called for continued funding and technical support for the peace process in order to achieve lasting stability in the country.

South Sudan descended into war in December 2013 following a feud between President Salva Kiir and his then deputy Riek Machar.

President Kiir accused Machar of plotting a coup against him, allegations the latter refuted but then went on to mobilize a rebel force to fight the government.

The war has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions others.

Previous peace deals failed to hold, as factions, including splinter groups, clashed time and again.

The current deal signed in September 2018 is however expected to last and lead the country to an election that will put the country on a path of unity.

Shearer expressed hope that the international community will provide the technical assistance and expertise needed to move forward.