President William Ruto of Kenya has made a call for inclusive dialogue in South Sudan as the nation gears up for its general elections set for December 2026. He advocates for the incorporation of hold-out groups and individuals who have been marginalized from the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity. This aim is to address unresolved issues stemming from the Revitalised Agreement and ensure that significant transitional milestones can be achieved. Ruto's remarks came during a session with the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee for South Sudan amidst the ongoing 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Ruto highlighted the importance of a credible electoral process that must stem from genuine inclusivity to facilitate a stable political environment in South Sudan. The President articulated that the upcoming elections represent a critical juncture for the nation, warranting collective efforts from all stakeholders in the peace and political process. By urging a comprehensive dialogue, he hopes to foster unity and collaboration among various factions, ensuring that South Sudan's transition is solidly grounded in peace and security.

The President's appeal reflects concerns over past electoral processes in South Sudan, which have often been marred by divisions and conflicts. Ruto's insistence on including all relevant parties in the dialogue emphasizes the need for a united front to resolve outstanding grievances and prevent further instability ahead of the elections. His remarks resonate with the broader international community's call for sustained engagement and support for South Sudan's political transition, emphasizing a collaborative approach to support lasting peace in the region.