South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir faces significant challenges in his diplomatic endeavors, with the lack of resources threatening his efforts to engage with international stakeholders. The African Union (AU) has been a key player in the region, with Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth, a public figure, contributing to the diplomatic landscape. However, the Sudanese row over Tasis and Islamists has delayed the launch of a crucial national dialogue, which was to be a milestone event.
In the midst of these challenges, President Kiir’s daughter, Adut Salva Kiir, has consolidated her position within the heart of power in South Sudan. She leads an influential economic affairs office within the presidential palace, where she has appointed close allies to senior state positions. The long-term implications of her influence remain unclear.
Meanwhile, in Port Sudan, efforts are underway to set up a parliament, aiming to streamline the political process. This comes as Tutkew Gatluak Manime, Salva Kiir’s security adviser, returns to his position after being fired in January. His return is expected to help mend fences with South Sudan’s northern neighbor, ensuring the full resumption of critical oil exports.
In neighboring Morocco, Rabat is seeking to win over the AU on the issue of Western Sahara. The country has returned to the pan-African organization after pursuing an empty chair policy and is buoyed by a UN resolution in its favor. Morocco aims to push for the AU to withdraw its recognition of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic.
In a separate development, former South Sudan first vice president Riek Machar is fighting tooth and nail in court. He aims to use the case brought against him to mobilize support, but his allies are pessimistic about the prospects of obtaining an acquittal.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kinshasa has launched fresh military operations in North Kivu. These operations, which were initially aimed solely at the M23 rebel group, now also target the Rwandan FDLR, one of Kinshasa’s main allied forces in the conflict. The government’s actions follow the breakdown of a potential deal to ease tensions in the province.
In Sudan, the situation is intensifying ahead of the US presidential election. The head of the Sudanese Armed Forces, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, is seeking to take advantage of the situation following the failure of mediation in Geneva.
Source: AfricaIntelligence
