WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) today introduced a resolution reiterating U.S. support for the people of South Sudan in their quest for lasting peace, stability, and democracy following the 10th anniversary of the country’s independence. The resolution also calls for a review of U.S. policy toward South Sudan given the persistent intercommunal violence, humanitarian crisis, and corruption in the country, and the lack of political will by its leaders to genuinely commit to peace and democracy and resolve outstanding issues.
“A decade after South Sudan declared its independence, the South Sudanese people continue to face violence and corruption from their leaders,” said Risch. “It is time to reassess our policy approach to South Sudan, reset our relationship with the South Sudanese people, and help them achieve their aspirations for a more democratic and prosperous future.”
“As the people of South Sudan celebrate ten years of independence, I am proud to introduce this resolution that supports their long fight for peace, prosperity, and stability,” said Booker. “This bipartisan resolution also urges the review of U.S. policy towards South Sudan so that our nations can build a relationship fostered on upholding human rights, while also addressing the problems of corruption and violence that have kept the South Sudanese people from attaining their aspirations.”
Text of the resolution can be found here.
###