End The Transition, No To Extension

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(Pachodo.org) - The unilateral decision by the Cabinet of the SPLM-led regime of Friday 17th April 2026 to extend its mandate for an additional two years constitutes a direct violation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS). It is also a fundamental infringement on the democratic rights of the South Sudanese people and their right to essential services.

For years, the regime has prolonged its hold on power under the pretext of extending the R-ARCSS transitional period. This has been enabled by our misplaced hopes for peace implementation, distorted appeals to patriotism, the influence of tribalism, and the corrosive effects of corruption.

We stayed quiet, thinking we were doing the right thing, but we ended up surrendering, letting them rule us with no mercy. Each time we excused the regime for failing to implement the R-ARCSS in letter and spirit, effectively renewed the regime’s mandate without our consent.

The cost of this silence has been borne by citizens across the country. It is paid in hunger and displacement. It is paid in funerals for young men lost in conflicts serving leaders who do not honour their sacrifice. It is paid in the loss of national direction despite hard-won independence. It is paid daily through insecurity, the absence of basic services, entrenched injustice, tribalism, and authoritarian rule.

The SPLM regime does not fear armed confrontation that is why each extension of the transition has been accompanied by repeated violations of the peace agreement by the regime, and increased suffering for civilians nationwide. What the regime fears is the democratic process, the ability of citizens to change the system through lawful and peaceful means. This is the fundamental reason for repeated extensions: to prevent the people from exercising their democratic rights.

Time has come for us not to be swayed by slogans, tribal loyalties, or partisan rhetoric. We need to assess the situation as patriots, to think independently as democrats, and to demand accountability as citizens.

We must reject any further extension of the transitional period and oppose more empty promises of peace. The transition has to end so new leadership can emerge, and South Sudan can finally see democracy, justice, peace, and development.

*Maj. Gen. John Sunday Martin*
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