U.S. legislators call to identify new leaders in South Sudan

October 21, 2021 (JUBA) – U.S. lawmakers endorsed a resolution calling to review U.S. policy toward South Sudan and identify new stakeholders with whom Washington can work to achieve peace and stability in the East African country.

Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced resolution S330 on 23 September.

The lawmakers underscored the continued instability in the country and pointed an accusing finger to its leaders saying they caused violence and corruption in the country.

Adopted on 19 October, the bipartisan resolution calls on the Secretary of State to lead a comprehensive interagency process to develop a revitalized United States policy toward South Sudan.

The purpose of this review is to identify “a broader range of South Sudanese political and civilian stakeholders, beyond President Kiir and First Vice President Machar, with whom the United States may work for the promotion of peace, democracy, development, accountability, transparency, and anti-corruption efforts,” reads the resolution.

In a statement released after the passage of the resolution, Risch said that it sends a direct signal to South Sudan’s leaders that their failure to lead and corrupt behaviour is not only hurting its citizens but the future of their country.

“S. Res.380 serves as a vital blueprint to recalibrate the U.S. bilateral relationship with South Sudan and act more decisively in the interest of its people,” he added.

Bush and Obama’s administrations played a vital role to ensure the independence of South Sudan. Also, the U.S. provided humanitarian and military assistance to build up the youngest nation.