By The Times of Earth Correspondent

JUBA, South Sudan, 16 September 2026 – Europe Peace Foundation President and Global Peace 2030 founder and initiator Sappan Hum KC Bahadur called for an end to violence and the adoption of a national peace and reconciliation roadmap during his visit to South Sudan from 13 to 16 September.

KC proposed that the Government begin a national process to declare South Sudan a “Peaceful Nation,” with commitments to dialogue, civilian protection, reconciliation and development leading to 2030. He also proposed recognising Central Equatoria as a “State of Peace” and Juba as a “City of Peace.”

During the visit, KC met President General Salva Kiir Mayardit; Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Amb. Dr. James Pitia Morgan; Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Dr. Wek Mamer Kuol; Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management Albino Akol Atak Mayom; Minister of Interior Gen. Aleu Ayieny Aleu; and Minister of Peace Building Stephen Par Kuol. His discussions also included Joseph Ngere Paciko, Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly; Emmanuel Adil Anthony, Governor of Central Equatoria State; and Major Christopher Sarafino Wani Swaka, Mayor of Juba City Council.

KC also engaged with civil society representatives, women and young people, emphasising the need for broad participation in efforts to build lasting peace.

“Violence must end in South Sudan. No political leader, political party or armed group will win through violence. Only the people will continue to suffer,” KC said. “All parties must come to the peace table without further delay.”

The proposed roadmap includes inclusive national dialogue, community reconciliation, voluntary disarmament, protection of vulnerable people and stronger respect for human rights and the rule of law. It also calls for preventing gender-based violence, expanding opportunities for young people and improving education, healthcare, clean water and other essential services.

KC said a Peaceful Nation declaration would express a national commitment to reject violence and address unresolved conflicts through peaceful means. It would not signify that every conflict or difficulty had already ended.

He called for a free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive general election, urging political leaders, candidates, security forces and supporters to reject intimidation and violence before, during and after voting. Electoral disputes, he said, should be addressed through dialogue and appropriate legal institutions.

“The people of South Sudan have a fundamental right to live in peace, security and dignity,” KC said.

He offered to support communication and initial peace consultations, subject to agreement by the Government and relevant parties. Any engagement would respect South Sudan’s sovereignty and be coordinated with national authorities and, where appropriate, regional and international partners.

KC also requested written government recognition of Global Peace 2030 and asked Parliament to consider a supporting resolution or statement. His proposals included an annual South Sudan National Peace Day and a Juba Peace Day involving communities, public institutions and international partners.

He said lasting peace could strengthen international confidence and create opportunities for responsible investment, tourism, trade and development cooperation.

“My position is clear and firm: violence must stop, dialogue must begin, and lasting peace must become the highest national priority,” KC concluded.