Prominent activist Edmund Yakani has called on Sudanese and South Sudanese leaders to prioritize resolving the long-standing Abyei issue before the 2026 elections. Abyei, a contested region rich in resources and cultural significance, has been a flashpoint of tensions since the secession of South Sudan in 2011.
Yakani, addressing a forum on regional stability, emphasized that the continued delay in settling Abyei’s status risks undermining peace efforts and the credibility of both nations in addressing border disputes. He noted that unresolved issues in Abyei could escalate into larger conflicts, especially during election periods when political and ethnic tensions often run high.
The call comes amid ongoing negotiations mediated by international actors, including the African Union and United Nations. While progress has been made in defining administrative frameworks for the region, disputes over voter eligibility, territorial claims, and control of resources remain contentious.
Local communities in Abyei, including the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya tribes, have expressed frustrations over the lack of clear resolutions, which they say have hindered development and security. Yakani stressed that resolving the issue requires genuine political will, inclusive dialogue, and mechanisms to ensure both justice and reconciliation for affected communities.
Observers warn that failure to address the Abyei issue before 2026 could disrupt electoral processes in Sudan and South Sudan, with broader implications for regional peace and security. Yakani urged the international community to intensify its engagement, providing technical and diplomatic support to finalize a comprehensive agreement.
As the timeline to 2026 narrows, stakeholders face mounting pressure to deliver a durable solution, ensuring that the Abyei region moves from being a symbol of division to a model of cooperation and coexistence.
