UN Secretary General Speaks on Raila Odinga’s New International Role
Nairobi, March 28, 2025 — The Secretary General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has praised ODM leader Raila Odinga for his efforts to bring peace to South Sudan.
President William Ruto recently appointed Raila Odinga as Kenya’s special envoy to Sudan. Raila’s main task is to help stop the growing conflict in South Sudan, where tensions have been rising after the arrest of opposition leader Riek Machar.
Speaking to the media on Friday, March 28, Guterres said the situation in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, is very serious. He warned that if no action is taken, the country might fall back into war, undoing the peace deal signed in 2018.
The UN Secretary General said he fully supports the African Union (AU) and IGAD missions that are working to maintain peace in South Sudan. He also praised Raila Odinga’s leadership in trying to prevent a new civil war.
“We support the AU’s decision to deploy the Panel of the Wise and the efforts of Raila Odinga, who was appointed by President Ruto of Kenya. We are working closely with the AU and IGAD. Raila and the Panel will meet both President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar. We want to make sure that peace returns to South Sudan,” Guterres said.
South Sudan Faces Economic Crisis
Guterres warned that if war breaks out again, it will destroy South Sudan’s economy and stability. He said the country is already suffering, with oil revenues falling and inflation rising to 300%.
He compared the current tension to the past civil wars of 2013 and 2016, which killed over 400,000 people.
“We must act now to avoid another disaster. Our UN mission in South Sudan is working day and night to calm tensions, protect civilians, and encourage peace talks,” Guterres said.
Peace Needed Before 2026 Elections
The UN boss stressed that peace is necessary for South Sudan to hold its general elections next year. Without peace, the elections will not be possible.
Riek Machar and President Salva Kiir have had a difficult relationship since 2013. After South Sudan gained independence in 2011, the two leaders worked together. However, they fell out two years later when Kiir accused Machar, who was then Vice President, of planning a coup. Machar later left the ruling party and formed the SPLM-in-Opposition.
Final Call for Peace
Guterres called on the international community to support peace efforts and ensure South Sudan does not return to war. He stressed that this is the time to act and save the world’s youngest country from another tragedy.
UN Secretary General Speaks on Raila Odinga’s New International Role
