- Excellencies
- Honourable Members of Parliament
- Distinguished Guests
- Ladies and Gentlemen
1. Good morning. I would like to thank the organisers of this event for putting together this workshop at this timely moment. I also wish to commend the Parties for their attendance and their continued commitment to the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement.
2. The Political Parties Forum is an important framework to enhance political space for members of political parties to build trust, share information, reconnect, negotiate political issues, and promote political space for all political actors. RJMEC has had the opportunity to participate in several of these forums at national and state level and can attest to their positive impact.
3. I am aware that during this year, these forums have provided Parties with the opportunity to dialogue on several issues in support of the implementation of the R-ARCSS. These discussions have included among others the status of implementation of the Roadmap, electoral timelines and processes, the roles of political parties in the democratic transition, the expansion of the political and civic space, the creation of a level playing field for all parties in the election process, and the development of strategies to further trust and confidence building between political parties. This is indeed commendable.
4. Therefore, it is important to understand that political parties are essential for democracies to function, as well as for the promotion of peace and stability and the prevention of violent conflict. Their functions, representation, interest aggregation and articulation, recruitment of electoral candidates and the formation of government, cannot be duplicated by any other civil society or private organization.
5. Democratization is always a politically contentious process, and this is particularly true in volatile post-conflict settings. Without strong political and state institutions, components of democratization such as elections and political party competition can raise tensions or, in extreme cases, lead to renewed conflict. Therefore, it is essential to support inclusive multi-party dialogues in order to help parties to overcome mistrust and suspicion, which often obstruct pragmatic dialogue on national political concerns.
6. A multiparty system cannot function effectively in a country emerging from a post conflict situation, when there is no willingness to discuss divergent views, where trust is eroded and no one party is willing to seek consensus and mutual understanding. However, political parties’ development and multiparty dialogues are necessary steps towards the creation of stable, democratic political systems that can be conducive to development, the protection of human rights, conflict prevention and resolution of conflict.
7. The stability and effectiveness of a political party system is not only determined by its legal framework, but by the checks and balances within the system, and the parties’ organization and general democratic practices within the party. The stability and effectiveness of political parties hinge upon the existence of mechanisms for parties to engage in interparty dialogue and cooperation, especially in a post conflict situation.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
8. According to the Revitalised Agreement, elections are due to take place about one year from now in December 2024 and 60 days prior to the end of the Transitional Period. The Agreement requires that the elections birth a democratically elected government and should be free, fair, credible and reflect the will of the electorate. Credible elections and election processes are therefore a vital corner stone in the laying of the foundation for a united, peaceful and prosperous South Sudan.
9. The Revitalized Agreement prohibits the Parties to the Agreement from committing certain acts by the Permanent Ceasefire during the Transitional Period which includes the electoral period. Actions such as engaging in hostile propaganda or hate speech including social media to foment ethnic or secretion hatred are prohibited. Violent actions such as attacking the civilian population, sexual and gender-based violence are also strictly prohibited. Parties are also required to take specific positive measures such as protection of the media, civil society and the most vulnerable population in the Transitional Period. The Revitalized Agreement requires the Parties to ensure accountability against their own members in the event of any such breaches.
It is important for the parties to consider drawing lessons from the experience of the Permanent Ceasefire, of which we have so far achieved in terms of continued observance, on the one hand and making all effort to ensure safety and credibility of elections that is nonviolent.
10. Furthermore, the National Elections Act provides that the National Election Commission should develop legally binding codes of conduct for persons who wish to participate in elections such as candidates, parties and others. It is therefore important for South Sudan to consider drawing up such rules that circumscribe acceptable and unacceptable conduct of those who participate in elections so that they can be free, fair and credible.
11. In addition, the African Union Peace and Security Council, at its 1186th Meeting held 16thNovember 2023 in Addis Ababa Ethiopia, through its Communique, urged the parties to negotiate a code of conduct and sign it with full authority to commit themselves to fairness, respect, accountability and acceptability to South Sudan regardless of appointments or results of the elections.
12. With this in mind, I therefore urge the parties to robustly engage with each other bearing in mind that a broad, inclusive dialogue among all political parties helps to build relationships based on trust, democratic tolerance and transparency and facilitates the exchange of good practices. This constructive dialogue can help build consensus on practical steps that can be taken to secure the electoral environment for the country and ensure attainment of necessary milestones including the timely conduct of elections.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
13. This September 2023 marked five years since the Revitalised Peace Agreement was signed in September 2018. South Sudan has now experienced the longest period of peace and stability since its independence in 2011. This is a commendable achievement for which I congratulate the Parties and the people of South Sudan. Clearly the theme of this convening being “Uniting for a Peaceful Political Transition and Elections in South Sudan” is quite appropriate considering where we are, in the implementation process. I commend the organizers for choosing this theme and wish you all fruitful deliberations.
14. I wish you good tidings for the holidays, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.
I Thank You.
- Major General Hailu Gonfa Eddosa, Chairperson of CTSAMVM,
- Distinguished Members of the CTSAMVM Board,
- Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good morning!
1. At the outset, allow me to thank Major General Hailu Gonfa Eddosa, Chairperson of CTSAMVM, for his leadership of this very important mechanism since his he became Chairperson. General, as always, I would like to assure you of RJMEC’s full support and cooperation as you lead CTSAMVM at this critical time in the South Sudan peace process.
2. I welcome the resumption of the sittings of the CTSAMVM Board, especially after aborted Board meeting of 26 July 2023. CTSAMVM is a critical Agreement mechanism with the mandate of monitoring, verification, compliance and reporting on the status of the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements.
3. As you are all aware, CTSAMVM has made valuable contributions to the peace process, including in the continuous monitoring of the permanent ceasefire, underscoring of the protection of civilians, investigating and verifying alleged violations, including helping in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
4. To that end, CTSAMVM has submitted many verified violations reports to RJMEC and IGAD since the signing of the R-ARCSS in 2018 and remedial actions were undertaken on the basis of such reports. I commend CTSAMVM for such dedicated contributions which enhanced confidence of the Parties, the region, and partners in the institution and, by extension, enhanced overall confidence in the peace process.
Distinguished Members,
5. Since July 2022, CTSAMVM has faced serious logistical and operational challenges when the US Government withdrew its funding to the mechanism. Despite the marked reduction in funding, CTSAMVM has continued to perform its functions and has adapted accordingly. However, like for many of us, the new funding situation has necessitated reforms and streamlining, which included a reduction in the number of its international monitors.
6. Besides, the initial funding stream from the RTGoNU for the national monitors that was very critical, dwindled. The delays in the payment of the allowances of the National Monitors affected their morale, resulting in their boycott of work for some time. The matter was addressed following funding support received from the Government of Japan. This resulted in the resumption of work by the National Monitors.
7. I would like to underscore the critical role that the National Members within CTSAMVM play in providing balanced party perspectives in their reports, and for this to be performed at maximum effectiveness, there is a need for cooperation, coordination and understanding to strengthen the requisite conducive working atmosphere.
8. That notwithstanding, CTSAMVM meetings were interrupted in April 2023 due to some concerns by the Senior National Representatives. As you are aware, four CTC Senior National Representatives wrote a letter, dated 22nd May 2023, addressed to H.E. Dr Ismail Wais, IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, and the Interim Chairperson of RJMEC and copied to you, on the subject of ‘Challenges Facing Functions and Operations of CTSAMVM”. This letter, in summary, highlighted five key issues, namely the CTSAMVM structure; leadership; finance and the Terms of Reference of the CTSAMVM Board and CTC.
9. The four CTC members also indicated that their issues must be resolved before they would resume work. To date, their boycott has affected the smooth functioning and operations of CTSAMVM.
10. Pursuant to articles 7.7 and 7.8 of the R-ARCSS, RJMEC is mandated to provide oversight to the work of all the Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms, including CTSAMVM. As an institution of IGAD (sub-article 2.1.10.5 of the R-ARCSS), CTSAMVM is mandated to regularly report to IGAD and RJMEC. Consequently, IGAD is central in the administrative and operational management of CTSAMVM.
Distinguished Members,
11. In response to the letter, I held separate meetings with the concerned parties, CTSAMVM leadership, and later with the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan and the IGAD Executive Secretary. Thus, in the course of my extensive consultations with the leaderships of CTSAMVM and IGAD on this matter, it was established that most of the issues raised were structural and administrative, occasioned primarily by the lack of clarity and/or misinterpretation of CTSAMVM’s administrative and operational structure under the Revitalised Peace Agreement.
12. To address this, IGAD reviewed, streamlined and endorsed the Terms of Reference of the CTSAMVM Board, and the Chairperson of CTSAMVM. Copies have been provided to you for your reference.
13. IGAD also provided guidelines to RJMEC, as an oversight body of the R-ARCSS, to draft the CTC Terms of Reference (ToR) which are supposed to be in harmony with the endorsed Terms of Reference of the Board and the Chairperson of CTSAMVM, and in accordance with the current financial and operational realities of CTSAMVM.
14. Consequently, on 26 July 2023, the CTSAMVM Board was convened so that the CTSAMVM Chairperson and I could brief the Board on the work that had been done to address the concerns presented by the four Senior National Representatives, as well as present to the Board the new ToR of the Chairperson, the Board, and the draft ToR for the CTC for approval by the Board. Unfortunately, the Board meeting was aborted due to the absence of some Board members.
15. Following this setback, I met with H.E. Riek Machar Teny the First Vice President, H.E. Hussein Abdulbagi, Vice President, Hon. Tut Gatluak, Presidential Security Adviser, and Hon. Minister Martin Lomuro, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, in an effort to resolve the CTC challenge. Recently, I convened another meeting with the four Senior National Representatives and the CTSAMVM leadership, and agreed to form a joint committee to review the CTC ToR. Last week the Committee presented to RJMEC its report and a revised CTC ToR. Following a constructive discussion, a consensus draft CTC ToR was reached.
Distinguished Members,
16. The purpose of today’s Extra-Ordinary Board Meeting is to brief the Board on its IGAD approved revised ToR and that of the Chairperson, as well as on the draft ToR of the CTC which the Board is required to approve. The approval of the CTC ToR will unlock the work of the CTC that has stalled since April this year. Importantly, the nine pending violation reports will immediately be processed, submitted to the RJMEC and IGAD, and finally published. This will enable the Parties to act and provide the necessary remedies to the violations, including accountability.
17. In conclusion, with the CTC challenge behind us, we need to turn a new page and renew our efforts, especially as we get closer to elections were CTSAMVM is most needed to be more robust in its work in the event of likely increase of violations. In this regard, it is critical that RJMEC, IGAD and the international partners work closely in support of this very important Agreement mechanism.
18. I wish you all fruitful deliberations in the review and subsequent consideration of the CTC Terms of Reference.
I Thank You.
- Your Excellency Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan;
- Your Excellency Dr Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon, First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Governance Cluster;
- Your Excellency, Dr James Wani Igga, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Economic Cluster;
- Your Excellency, Gen. Taban Deng Gai, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Infrastructure Cluster;
- Your Excellency, Hussein Abdelbagi, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Services Cluster;
- Your Excellency, Rebecca Nyandeng De Mabior, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Youth and Gender Cluster;
- The Rt Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba, Speaker of the Reconstituted TNLA;
- Honourable Ministers;
- Your Excellencies Governors, Chief Administrators of the Administrative Areas, and Deputy Governors;
- Your Excellencies Ambassadors,
- Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good morning!
1. It is my great honour to address the 7th Governors’ Forum this morning, in my capacity as the Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC). At the outset, I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate His Excellency the President, Salva Kiir Mayardit, the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) and the people of South Sudan, for taking the additional responsibility of chairing the seven-member State organisation of the East African Community. This responsibility further places South Sudan into regional and international focus at this critical period of her political life, as the country gears up for elections. Consequently, the approach, speed, commitment, and adherence by the RTGoNU on the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution to the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), will be very crucial and imperative, in enhancing regional and international trust and confidence of the country and its leadership of the East African Community. I would therefore like to once again emphasise the responsibility of the RTGoNU executives at national and state levels to ensure full and timely implementation of the Revitalised Agreement.
2. I would like to commend the Ministry of Presidential Affairs and the Office of the President, with support from the UNDP and UNMISS, for continuing to organise this influential event. The key issues that have been set for consideration by this Forum include public finance management, the role of Governors and Chief Administrators in readying South Sudan for elections, and addressing national humanitarian challenges.
3. This Forum is taking place at a critical time, given that elections are scheduled to take place as per the Roadmap in 13 months from now. Therefore, it is entirely appropriate that the theme of this year’s Governors’ Forum is ‘Fostering National Cohesion: South Sudan’s Path to Peaceful Transition for Democratic Governance.’ It is clear that the prospect of elections is accompanied by optimism and uncertainty among the people of South Sudan, therefore the emphasis on national cohesion is welcome.
4. The recent steps forward, in the implementation of key Peace Agreement tasks help to allay some of the uncertainty, but this needs to be accompanied by more progress. Accordingly, I believe it is important to recall last year’s theme, which was: ‘Accelerating the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement in accordance with the Roadmap 2022.’ Clearly, even today, acceleration of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement is still needed. This is evidenced by the fact that there is slow progress in the implementation of the Agreement since the last Governors’ Forum.
5. My statement this morning, as per the mandate of RJMEC, will provide a chapter-by-chapter update on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement. I will also highlight key pending tasks, recurring challenges, and conclude with some reflections.
Excellencies,
6. Regarding the status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement, concerning governance, since the last Governors’ Forum, the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) has passed several amendment bills, including: the National Revenue Authority, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Banking, and the Bank of South Sudan, which now await Presidential assent. Furthermore, the National Elections Act and the Constitution-making Process Act were enacted, both critical pieces of legislation for the conduct of elections, as per the Peace Agreement. However, the National Security Services Bill, the National Audit Chamber Bill and the Public Finance Management and Accountability Bill are awaiting enactment by the reconstituted TNLA.
7. At the start of this month, November 2023, the Political Parties Council (PPC), the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) and the National Elections Commission (NEC) were reconstituted. These institutions are mandated, among others, to register, oversee and regulate activities of political parties; drive forward the permanent constitution-making process; and prepare and conduct elections respectively. The timely operationalisation and adequate resourcing of these key institutions is needed to ensure their effective functioning, and will also pave the way towards the expansion and protection of civic and political space.
8. The restructuring and reconstitution of the Institutions and Commissions at the national level, such as the Land Commission, the Independent Fiscal and Financial Allocation Monitoring Commission, and the Anti-Corruption Commission, among others, which were to have been completed in 2022, according to the Roadmap, are still pending.
9. Furthermore, the Agreement provides for judicial reforms in the Republic of South Sudan during the Transitional Period. Pursuant to this requirement, the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) was established to study and recommend appropriate reforms of the judiciary. Since its establishment in June 2022, the Committee made some strides towards its mandate. It held consultations in the Greater Upper Nile, Greater Bahr el Ghazal and Greater Equatoria regions, as well as in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area. Recently, its work stalled due to funding constraints for its leadership. Completion of this Committee’s work will inform the next steps in the reforms of the judiciary and is directly linked to, among others, review of the Judiciary Act, reconstitution of the Judicial Service Commission, and the establishment of an independent Constitutional Court.
10. In terms of security, the Permanent Ceasefire largely holds despite sporadic skirmishes. On 15 November 2023, the first phase of redeployment of the military component of the 55,000 graduated Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) commenced. The Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) is encouraged to continue and complete this process. Training and subsequent redeployment of Phase 2 of the unified forces is yet to commence, though its completion would significantly contribute to the peace and security of the country before, during and after elections.
11. Furthermore, the Strategic Defence and Security Review Board completed the drafting of the security policy documents, which await validation. The completion of this comprehensive security assessment, including the formulation of defence and security policies, is a critical requirement which will lead to security sector transformation, thus promoting and defending the sovereignty and dignity of South Sudan and its people. Similarly, there are concerns that the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) has not been seriously addressed or resourced. This is an important process for peace and security, as it ensures that those who are ineligible for the unification are managed and enabled to return to civilian life through DDR programmes.
12. The Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), continues to work, albeit with operational challenges arising from funding and administrative issues. These challenges notwithstanding, CTSAMVM has produced nine violation reports since May 2023. The reports have not been published because the CTSAMVM Technical Committee (CTC) and the Board have not met since then. The issue of the Technical Committee is being handled by the Principals of the Parties
13. On the other hand, intercommunal violence and activities of some holdout groups continue to be a source of insecurity in several parts of the country. Security matters at the subnational level require collective responsibility and collaboration at all levels of government, especially at this time as the country prepares for elections.
Excellencies,
14. The humanitarian situation remains dire, and continues to worsen due to widespread flooding, high levels of food insecurity, and the influx of those fleeing the conflict in Sudan. Meanwhile, international humanitarian support is reducing. Consequently, to meet some of these challenges, the Agreement provides for the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund and Board. Upon its establishment, the RTGoNU is expected to provide the Fund with USD 100 million per annum. This Fund would help address humanitarian needs in South Sudan, with priorities given to conflict affected states and areas, including the protection of IDPs, returnees and families affected by the conflict.
15. Regarding resource, economic and financial management, overall, public financial reforms have been slow. Nevertheless, the Public Finance Management (PFM) Oversight Committee continues to ensure the implementation of a medium-term economic and financial management reform programme. For example, the reforms have resulted in improved transparency in reporting on oil and non-oil revenue, and meanwhile, the setting up of a Single Treasury Account is underway.
16. Considering that this Governors’ Forum has expressed a focus on public finance management, it is worth highlighting some key areas that are in need of greater attention and progress, These include:
a) completion of the audits designed to enhance the transparent management of the petroleum resources, such as the cost recovery audit and environment audit;
b) completion of the audit of the RTGoNU’s Financial Statements from 2011, and the banking laws to be assented to by the President;
c) review of the independent Fiscal and Financial Allocation Monitoring Commission and the terms of increment and formulae for the sharing of natural resource wealth amongst states and communities, and devolution of powers and resources;
d) closing any Petroleum revenue accounts other than those approved by law;
e) finalisation of the relevant legislation and operationalisation of the National Audit Chamber and the Anti-Corruption Commission.
Excellencies,
17. On Transitional Justice, following public consultations, study tours to The Gambia and South Africa and an international conference held in Juba, the bills for the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) were drafted, endorsed by the Council of Ministers, and now await tabling before the reconstituted TNLA. In view of this Forum’s theme on social cohesion, the timely establishment of these two bodies should be given the utmost priority. As for the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS), no progress has been made thus far towards its establishment.
18. The Permanent Constitution is a critical requirement for the conduct of elections in accordance with the Agreement. The people-led and people-owned constititution is also expected to initiate a federal and democratic system of government. In this regard, the recent appointment of members to the reconstituted National Constitutional Review Commission is a welcome development. However, much work lies ahead of the Commission in making the new constitution, including the recruitment of the Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC), the conduct of civic education, and public consultations. In addition, the establishment of the Preparatory Sub-Committee (PSC) for the convening of the National Constitutional Conference, which will deliberate and adopt the new constitution, is still pending.
Excellencies,
19. In spite of the progress mentioned, challenges continue to slow down the implementation of the Peace Agreement. They include, among others, inadequate funding to the Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms; trust deficit among the Parties; capacity gaps; inter-communal violence; insecurity caused by military defections and activities of holdout groups; severe flooding; influx of returnees and refugees fleeing Sudan; and reduced international funding.
20. In light of the aforestated, I would like to conclude with the following reflections on the theme of this Forum.
a) community security and social cohesion are two vital elements of preparations for elections and South Sudan’s peaceful transition. Therefore, initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of intercommunal violence are important.
b) State Governments have a critical role to play in providing a conducive environment for the expansion and protection of civic and political space, the making of the permanent constitution, and the conduct of elections.
c) more broadly, national security would be strengthened by completing the unification of forces, and their deployment across the country to provide election-related security. In that regard, availing funding and political support to DDR programmes is essential, especially for those ineligible for the NUF.
d) it is clear that some states have been disproportionately affected by the growing humanitarian crisis, and in this regard, RJMEC continues to call for the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund and Board, and the convening of the Pledging Conference. This would raise funds to help South Sudan respond to the humanitarian challenges faced.
e) concerning natural resource management, it is important to ensure the final endorsement of the 2023 Land Policy, review the Land Act, and establish an independent land registry at all levels of government for the issuance of title deeds.
f) the establishment and operationalisation of the Commission of Truth, Reconciliation and Healing and the Compensation and Reparation Authority will build public confidence, promote reconciliation and set in motion the process of healing and strengthening social cohesion.
g) a people-led and people-owned constitution is critical in pursuing the path to peaceful transition to democratic governance, and in this regard, the importance of expediting the constitution-making process cannot be overemphasised.
h) the centrality of social cohesion with gender perspective is key to reducing inequalities. Therefore, it is critical to ensure the participation of women in all political processes ahead; and in accordance to the Agreement-mandated minimum threshold level of 35%. Equally important is as well as giving deliberate due consideration to the Youth and People Living with Disabilities.
Excellencies,
21. In conclusion, it is expected that this high-level Governors’ Forum will deliberate and agree on concrete practical steps to address the challenges slowing down the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement as aforementioned. It is important to underscore the need for continuous dialogue, close collaboration and collegiality at all levels of government in order to strengthen the processes and institutions of governance nationwide.
22. In this way, the levels of social cohesion and public confidence needed to hold free, fair and credible elections can continue to be built. Thus, delivering on the promises of the Revitalised Peace Agreement to the people of South Sudan and ‘to lay the foundation for a united, peaceful and prosperous society, based on justice, equality, respect for human rights and rule of law.’
I Thank You.
OPENING REMARKS BY AMBASSADOR BERHANU KEBEDE, RJMEC CHIEF OF STAFF, DELIVERED AT THE THIRD STAKEHOLDERS’ HIGH-LEVEL MEETING ON ENVIRONMENTAL RELATED ISSUED IN THE OIL PRODUCING AREAS AND THE STATUS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 5% SHARE OF NET OIL REVENUES FOR OIL PRODUCING STATES AND COMMUNITIES 24-26 OCTOBER 2023
- Rt Honourable Speaker,
- Rt Honourable Deputy Speakers,
- Honourable Members,
- Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.
Good morning
1. I am honoured, as the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), to brief the Reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). This briefing is pursuant to Article 7.9 of the Revitalised Peace Agreement which mandates RJMEC to report quarterly to and brief this august House. It therefore covers the second quarter of this year, from April 1 to June 30, 2023.
2. During this period, I had the opportunity to brief H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, Presidentof the Republic of South Sudan, H.E. Dr Riek Machar, First Vice President, H.E. Dr William S. Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, and the United Nations Security Council on the status of implementation of the R-ARCSS.
3. In addition, I attended the 14th Ordinary Summit of the IGAD Heads of State and Government in Djibouti, and held substantive discussions with H.E. Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of IGAD and H.E. Dr Ismail Wais, IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan. The focus of the RJMEC’s engagements highlighted above was to provide a detailed assessment on the status of implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, raise concerns over the slow pace of implementation and highlight risks associated with the parties’ inability to complete implementation of the critical benchmarks required for the conduct of peaceful and credible elections in 2024. I also appealed for more support to the South Sudan peace process.
4. In light of the aforementioned, my briefing to this august House is a summary of the RJMEC Quarterly Report which was earlier forwarded to you. I will provide a chapter-by-chapter update on the status of implementation for the reporting period, highlight critical pending tasks in the Roadmap, particularly those critical for the conduct of elections, reflect on the recurring challenges and conclude with recommendations.
Rt Hon. Speaker, Honourable Members.
5. In terms of governance, some progress has been made by the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) pursuant to its mandate of studying and making recommendations to the RTGoNU for consideration on appropriate judicial reforms in the Republic of South Sudan. To that end, the JRC held regional public consultations in three States in the country in June 2023 so as to incorporate stakeholders’ perspectives to enrich its report.
6. The mandate of the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) tasked by the R-ARCSS to draft, amend and review legislation which lapsed in May 2023 was extended by the RTGoNU for an additional six months to enable the Committee to complete its tasks. The following are the pending legislation to be reviewed and amended by the NCAC: the Non-Governmental Organisation Act, the Investment Promotion Act, the Mining Act, the Transport Act, the Pension Fund Act, and the Telecommunication Act.
7. On national elections, the Roadmap of the R-ARCSS provides that elections are to be held in December 2024. For this to happen, legal, security and institutional frameworks for holding credible elections should be in place by now. These benchmarks include, among others, enactment of the National Elections Bill, and reconstitution and full operationalization of the National Elections Commission (NEC) and the Political Parties Council (PPC). The National Elections Amendment Bill is before this august House for consideration to pave the way for reconstitution of the National Elections Commission.
8. Progress towards operationalisation of the Political Parties Council has been slow despite the enactment of the Political Parties (Amendment) Act in June 2022. The Political Parties Council is a crucial institution for the registration of political parties and will, among others, help to protect political and civic space for citizens' participation in all spheres of governance.
9. Regarding the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements, RJMEC observes that the Permanent Ceasefire has continued to hold. However, CTSAMVM reported two violations to RJMEC and IGAD regarding detention of an SPLA-IO officer and National Salvation Front (NAS) attack on SSPDF in Central Equatoria State. Clashes between civilians were also reported in the Malakal Protection of Civilians site.
10. Following the Phase I graduation of 55,000 troops between August 2022 and January 2023, there has been no further progress on the unification of the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF). The graduated forces are still in the Training Centres, yet to be redeployed and in dire need of logistical support. Additionally, there is no progress in Phase II of the unification of forces and the DDR process remains unfunded.
11. Despite the aforementioned setbacks, there has been some progress in the enforcement of accountability among the SSPDF who commit crimes against civilians. For example, the SSPDF conducted a General Court Martial (GCM) in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State, which heard 29 cases. These accountability efforts culminated in convictions for murder, rape, sexual harassment, and loss of weapons and ammunitions.
12. The National Police Service (NPS) and the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MoJCA) in collaboration with the University of Juba are implementing police reform initiatives. Furthermore, the National Police Service Directorate of Community Policing, launched the Voluntary Civilian Disarmament Strategy, which aims at voluntary disarmament of communities and enhancement of their protection.
13. On humanitarian assistance, the onset of rains and the influx of refugees and returnees from Sudan have exacerbated the already severe humanitarian needs in the country. This is compounded by the cumulative effects of prolonged intercommunal conflicts, long-term flooding and high levels of food insecurity. The disruption of trade routes between Sudan and South Sudan has also negatively affected the supply of food and other essential goods into South Sudan, resulting in scarcity and increase in prices. The overall humanitarian situation is worsened by shortage of basic services and limited funding to cover over nine million people already in need of humanitarian assistance and protection in South Sudan.
14. The long overdue establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund (SRF) Board remains a concern especially in view of increasing needs and dwindling funding for humanitarian support, recovery as well as the implementation of chapter III of the Agreement. The purpose of the Special Reconstruction Fund is to avail funding to support, among others, reconstruction as well as relocation, resettlement and reintegration of the IDPs and returnees.
Rt Hon. Speaker, Honourable Members,
15. On the management of economic and financial resources, progress has been slow in implementing the provisions aimed at improving the systems geared to the efficient management of public funds. These systems must be put in place in a timely manner to ensure that the resources, financial or natural, are beneficial to the people of South Sudan.
16. South Sudan is experiencing challenges in land administration in defining the roles of the existing institutions at national, state and local government levels. Currently the country relies on the pre-independence 2009 Land Act, while each state has its own land policies, laws and regulations. The RTNLA is required to adopt the reviewed Land Policy which will go a long way in addressing challenges in the land sector, including land grabbing, boundary disputes, conflicts over access to pasture. Consequently, RTNLA should prioritise land related legislation to support these reform efforts.
Rt Hon. Speaker, Honourable Members,
17. There has been slow progress in implementing Public Financial Management reforms. It is critical that this august House expedites the enactment of the bills to support these reforms. As a result, a considerable number of provisions in this area have missed their benchmark dates as indicated in the Roadmap. There is need for transparency and accountability in order to attract international support for the execution of South Sudan’s sustainable peace and development agenda.
18. Regarding transitional justice, the RTGoNU convened a conference under the theme Building a Sustainable Transitional Justice System for South Sudan in May 2023 in Juba. The Bills for the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing and the Compensation and Reparation Authority have been drafted and submitted to the Council of Ministers for approval before presentation to this august House for enactment.
19. In terms of the permanent constitution-making process, a critical requirement for the conduct of elections and post-transition governance arrangements, very little progress has been made in the operationalization of the Constitution Making Process Act 2022. This august House passed this Bill and was assented to by His Excellency the President, in December 2022. The institutions required to drive the process forward, such as the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) is still not reconstituted and the Constitutional Drafting Committee (CDC) and the Preparatory Sub-Committee for the National Constitutional Conference (NCC) are not yet established.
Rt Hon. Speaker, Honourable Members,
20. In conclusion, during the period under review, very little was accomplished with regard to improving the overall pace of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement. Overall, tasks related to the permanent constitution-making and electoral processes have stalled, and critical benchmarks outlined in the Roadmap are yet to be implemented.
21. In light of the aforementioned, the report makes the following recommendations:
21.1. To the Parties to the Agreement and Relevant Stakeholders, submit lists of their nominees to the various Constitution-making mechanisms;
21.2. To the Reconstituted Transitional Government of National Unity:
a. expeditiously reconstitute the NCRC and establish the Preparatory Sub-Committee and other relevant mechanisms for the constitution-making process to proceed;
b. urgently expedite the establishment and operationalization of the relevant constitution-making institutions and mechanisms;
c. complete the review of the CTRH and CRA Bills and forward them to the RTNLA for enactment;
d. provide basic services to citizens to promote the relocation, resettlement and reintegration of IDPs and returnees; and
e. expeditiously establish the Special Reconstruction Fund Board to pave way for the convening of the South Sudan Pledging Conference.
21.3. To this august House, expedite the deliberation and enactment of all the outstanding bills before you, including the National Elections, the National Security Service (NSS) and the Public Finance Management (PFM) Bills.
22. In conclusion, I would like to note that this month of September marks exactly one year since the endorsement of the Roadmap. More importantly, in a week’s time, on 12 September, South Sudan will be marking exactly five years from the day the Revitalised Peace Agreement was signed. It is therefore important to reflect on the road which we have traveled thus far in the implementation of the R-ARCSS. Despite this journey, several critical benchmarks remain unacomplished, including the unification of forces, the making of the permanent constitution, enactment and operationalization of legal frameworks and electoral processes in preparation for elections scheduled for December 2024.
23. In this regard, it is critical to underscore the need for sufficient political will, commitment of resources by the RTGoNU and for the Parties to the Agreement to build trust and confidence.
24. On RJMEC’s part as the oversight institution of the R-ARCSS, it shall continue to monitor, evaluate and report on the status of implementation of the R-ARCSS pursuant to its mandate, as envisaged under Chapter 7.
I Thank You!
OPENING REMARKS BY H.E. AMB. MAJ GEN (RTD) CHARLES TAI GITUAI, CBS, INTERIM CHAIRPERSON CONFERENCE ON TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE MECHANISMS IN THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN: BUILDING A SOUTH SUDANESE MODEL FOR TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
MONDAY, 15 MAY 2023
JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN
- Your Excellency, Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan
- Your Excellency, Dr. Riek Machar Teny, First Vice President
- Your Excellencies, Vice Presidents
- Hon Tut Gatluak, Presidential Advisor on Security and Chairperson of the High Level Standing Committee of the Parties to the R-ARCSS
- Hon Dr Martin Elia Lomuro, Minister for Cabinet Affairs and Secretary General of the High Level Standing Committee of the Parties to the R-ARCSS
- Hon Justice Ruben Madol Arol, Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs
- Hon Ministers
- Excellencies
- Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen
Good morning.
1. It is my pleasure this morning to speak at this auspicious conference on Transitional Justice Mechanisms in South Sudan. I would like to commend the RTGoNU for convening this event.
2. The theme for this conference, “Building a South Sudanese Model for Transitional Justice System” is timely and appropriate. It is important that the Transitional Justice model to be used in South Sudan is homegrown and in accordance with the people’s sense of justice.
3. As the official oversight body, the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) places great value on the importance of Chapter 5 of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), and has been encouraging the RTGoNU to fast track its implementation, given the chapter’s critical role in building sustainable peace.
4. Chapter 5 of the Revitalised Agreement provides broad parameters for the implementation of transitional justice, in particular truthseeking, reconciliation, healing, reparations and accountability using a range of inter-linked mechanisms. These are the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH), the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA), and the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS).
5. In line with the objective of this conference, it is expected that the outcome will inform and enrich the legislative process for the establishment of the CTRH and the CRA. The convening of this conference therefore is a positive step forward in the implementation of transitional justice in South Sudan.
Your Excellency,
6. The participation of the national, regional and international practitioners in this conference is a critical step in ensuring that the country appreciates the importance of dealing with the past, and associated challenges. In the course of this conference, South Sudan will learn from diverse experiences in other countries on Transitional Justice.
7. This conference provides an opportunity for interaction and knowledge sharing so that all participants can contribute to the development of a South Sudanese model of transitional justice. I would like to appeal to everyone assembled here today to seize this important moment, and engage in constructive dialogue to understand the South Sudan context.
Your Excellency,
8. It is clear that much remains to be done and we are behind schedule according to the Roadmap timelines. It my sincere hope therefore, that this conference will create fresh momentum in the implementation of chapter 5, and other critical pending tasks of the Agreement.
9. There is need for deliberate efforts and a sense of urgency in the unification of forces, the making of the permanent constitution, and preparations for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections in December 2024. With this in mind, it is a commendable step that on Friday the RTGoNU Council of Ministers approved a budget of over 3 billion South Sudanese Pounds for the deployment of the Phase 1 of the graduated forces.
10. I wish you all fruitful deliberations, and I Thank You.
END
BRIEFING By H.E. AMB. MAJ GEN (rtd) CHARLES TAI GITUAI, CBS , INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, AT THE LAUNCH OF THE , JOINT AFRICAN UNION COMMISSION – INTER-GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY ON DEVELOPMENT POST-CONFLICT NEEDS ASSESSMENT FOR SOUTH SUDAN, WEDNESDAY, 11 MAY 2023, JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN
- Hon. Stephen Par Kuol, Minister of Peacebuilding
- Your Excellency, Dr Ismail Wais, IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan
- Your Excellency, Amb. Naohiro Tsutsumi, Ambassador of Japan to South Sudan
- Representative of the African Union Commission,
- Dr Samuel Doe, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme
- Representative of the World Bank
- Country Director of the African Development Bank
- Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.
Good morning.
1. It is my pleasure to brief you all this morning at the launch of this important initiative, and I would like to express my sincere thanks to IGAD and the African Union Commission for giving me this opportunity. Furthermore, I would like to commend both organisations for coming together in support of their member state South Sudan at this timely juncture. With the Transitional Period of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) recently extended by 24 months, and elections due in December 2024, all possible support is truly welcome as much remains to be done at this critical time.
2. The stated objective of the post-conflict needs assessment, which is ‘enhancing the efforts of the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) towards the full implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS)’, is appreciated. In particular, I am pleased to see that one of the outcomes to the needs assessment is to highlight opportunities for support, including modalities for the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund (SRF) as per Article 3.2 of the Revitalised Peace Agreement. As we all know, the lack of funding has been a huge challenge since the Agreement’s signing, and the SRF is a mechanism required to raise and transparently manage funds for the reconstruction effort and the implementation of the Agreement. I am hopeful that the ‘rigorous and all-inclusive’ needs assessment that this initiative is intended to deliver will help to create a springboard from which the RTGoNU can establish and operationalise the SRF.
3. In this regard, I would like to deliver a chapter-by-chapter briefing on the status of the implementation of the R-ARCSS, including key achievements made, some critical pending tasks, recurring challenges and key milestones that need to be reached as South Sudan looks towards elections.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
4. At the outset, I would like to point out that February 2023 marked exactly three years since the formation of the RTGoNU, and elections are scheduled to be held in December 2024. While there has been considerable progress made towards the implementation of some provisions of the R-ARCSS to date, it has been slow and many critical tasks of the Agreement are still not implemented. Within this extended Transitional Period, a greater sense of urgency is required by all stakeholders in order to adhere to the timelines set out in the Roadmap.
Chapter 1: Governance
5. With regards to Chapter 1 on the RTGoNU, a number of tasks have been completed, key among these being:
a. formation of government structures at the national and sub-national levels, including the executives and legislative assemblies;
b. incorporation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement into the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan (TCRSS) 2011, as amended;
c. legislative reforms undertaken through the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) reviews, and drafting amendments of requisite pieces of legislation. Only six laws are pending in this regard;
d. enactment by the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature of numerous pieces of legislation, including five out of six security related laws, the Constitutional Amendment Bills, the Political Parties Act 2022 and the Constitution Making Process Act 2022; and
e. establishment and operationalisation of the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) in pursuance of its mandate, which is to study and recommend appropriate judicial reforms.
6. The process of restructuring and reconstituting the Institutions and Commissions at the national level, as per article 1.19 of the R-ARCSS, is not yet concluded. In addition, the task of establishing an independent Constitutional Court and tasks relating to the amendment of the national elections law, reconstitution of the Political Parties Council, National Elections Commission and preparations for the conduct of elections, are still pending.
Chapter 2: Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements
7. On the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements (TSA), the completion of Phase I graduation of approximately 55,000 unified forces is a commendable step. The next priority tasks are the redeployment of the graduated forces, the commencement of training of Phase II of unified forces, the collection and management of weapons and munitions, and Demobilisation, Disarmament, and Reintegration (DDR). That said, the lack of funding to all the security mechanisms, especially to the DDR Commission is of great concern, as DDR is an integral component of the unification of forces. Furthermore, the development of the Strategic Defence Review policy paper is pending.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Chapter 3: Humanitarian Assistance and Reconstruction
8. On humanitarian affairs, some humanitarian corridors which were opened have facilitated the free movement of goods, supplies, services and people across borders. This has enabled some voluntary returns, though some 2.3 million are still being hosted in neighbouring countries.
9. However, overall, the magnitude and severity of humanitarian needs continues to rise, due to the cumulative effects of prolonged intercommunal conflicts, widespread flooding, and high levels of food insecurity. More than nine million people are projected to need humanitarian assistance and protection this year according to UNOCHA, while efforts by humanitarian agencies to reach those in dire need are further hampered by reduced funding. The humanitarian situation in South Sudan is further challenged by the influx of refugees and returnees from Sudan following the outbreak of conflict there. Also of concern is the safety and access of humanitarian workers and their assets, who deliver much-needed assistance to those in need.
10. With this in mind, the focus that the needs assessment places on the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund (SRF) and Board is very important. Once the SRF is established, in accordance to Article 3.2.8, IGAD, the African Union and the UN are expected to collaborate in convening the Pledging Conference to resource the fund, and to support the implementation of the Agreement.
Chapter 4: Economic, Resource and Financial Management
11. Under Chapter 4 on Resource, Economic and Financial Management, overall, economic reforms have been slow, and greater and more rapid progress is needed. However, there has been some progress made with regards to environmental protection and in the management of natural resources, in particular greater transparency in the production and marketing of petroleum resources. Meanwhile, the work of the Public Finance Management Oversight Committee continues to improve the overall transparency and accountability in the management of the country’s finances.
12. In other areas, crucial building blocks for sustainable development in South Sudan are being developed, such as agricultural policies, and strategies and programmes to address food security. Further, the legal and institutional framework for Youth and Women Enterprise Development Funds to build small and medium enterprises are also being developed.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Chapter 5: Transitional Justice
13. Chapter 5 of the R-ARCSS on transitional justice envisages the establishment of three mechanisms, namely the Commission for Truth Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH), the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA). None of these have yet been established. However, the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs has undertaken country-wide consultations and prepared draft bills on the establishment of the CTRH and CRA, and the African Union Commission has initiated its engagement with the RTGoNU on the establishment of the Hybrid Court for South Sudan.
Chapter 6: Parameters of the Permanent Constitution
14. With regards to the making of the permanent constitution, the Consitution Making Process Act was assented to by the President of the Republic of South on 21st December 2022, setting in motion the timeline for the constitution making process, but today, over four months later, no progress has been made in this regard.
15. Considering the Roadmap timelines, the following institutions should have been reconstituted or established by now: the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) and its Secretariat, the Preparatory Sub-Committee for the National Constitutional Conference, and the Constitutional Drafting Committee to kick-start the constitution-making process. These delays are particularly concerning, given that a people-led and people-owned constitution is a critical legal framework which will guide the conduct of elections in December 2024.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
16. Overall, as aforementioned, completing the unification of forces, the making of the permanent constitution, and preparations for elections in December 2024, are among the critical tasks which remain pending. Given the magnitude of the tasks ahead and the slow pace of implementation, RJMEC has urged all parts of the RTGoNU to redouble efforts, work collaboratively, in a collegial and consultative manner, and to expedite implementation and provide much-needed resources and leadership to the implementation of the Peace Agreement. The support of international partners and friends of South Sudan in this regard is also crucial.
17. In conclusion, there are challenges ahead for the R-ARCSS to be fully implemented in letter and spirit. However, besides the challenges, there is plenty of potential in the country of South Sudan, and a population deeply deserving of peace and sustainable development. I wish the consultants every success in their endeavour, and as RJMEC, we stand ready to assist their work as part of our mandate.
I Thank You.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen
Good morning,
1. It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this workshop dedicated to discussing how to enhance the role and participation of South Sudan women in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. The theme of the event, “understanding the Roadmap and women’s participation in implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS)” is timely and significant.
2. Today is a special day for all of us, as we mark the International Women’s Day. This special day encourages us to reflect on the milestones that have been achieved by women in the world. The ideals advocated by the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 are aimed, among others, at mainstreaming gender by bringing about a greater sensitivity to the different effects that war has on men and women.
3. The ground-breaking Security Council Resolution 1325, which was passed in the year 2000, is the first to link women’s experiences of conflict to the international peace and security agenda, focusing attention on the disproportionate impact of conflict on women, and calling for women’s engagement in conflict resolution and peace building. It recognised the undervalued and underutilised contributions women make to conflict prevention, peacekeeping, conflict resolution, conflict transformation, including securing and sustaining peace. It also stressed the importance of women’s equal and full participation as active agents in peace and security.
4. Historically, women have been in record for constructively engaging in the South Sudan peace process. During the IGAD-led High-Level Revitalization Forum (HLRF) of the parties and stakeholders which culminated into the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), the South Sudanese women played a critical role in successfully negotiating issues affecting them. As you may recall, the chief mediator, Hanna Tetteh, is a woman.
5. The increase in women representation from 25% under the previous Peace Agreement to 35% under the Revitalized Peace Agreement is a sheer demonstration of the women’s agency in arguing their case for effective representation and participation in political processes, including in all state institutions. RJMEC encourages the R-TGoNU and all the political parties to provide an enabling environment for South Sudanese women to fully participate in the implementation of the R-ARCSS.
6. This workshop therefore comes shortly after we have marked the third anniversary of the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU), three years of the Transitional Period of the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), and after four and a half years of the signing of the Revitalized Peace Agreement itself.
7. In late 2021, it was RJMEC’s assessment that a number of critical tasks were pending, which would have made the conduct of elections as originally scheduled in December 2022, near impossible. Accordingly, RJMEC requested the RTGoNU to develop and share its strategy on achieving the critical pending tasks within the timeframe remaining. Consequently, the RTGoNU duly developed a Roadmap in August 2022, setting out a revised schedule for implementation of the critical pending tasks to enable the country conduct peaceful and democratic elections within 24 months, with the Transitional Period now expected to end in February 2025.
8. The Roadmap, in the words of the RTGoNU, “is to provide time-bound guidance on the implementation of outstanding provisions that are critical to the conduct of peaceful and democratic elections at the end of the transition period, not alternative to the R-ARCSS.”Therefore, in the extended period of the Transitional Period, just as before, the R-ARCSS remains the supreme document.
9. In this regard, therefore, as we move into the extension period, the gender provisions remain very relevant and central. This is the reason why the theme of the event, “Understanding the Roadmap and women’s participation in implementation of the R-ARCSS” is the main focus of discussions in the workshop.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
10. The gender provisions of the Agreement seek to improve the inclusion and empowerment of women in a very fundamental way. They cover the participation and representation of women in decision‐making positions, in all governmental bodies, and institutions and mechanisms that drive political, economic, social and judicial reforms, as well as the constitution-making process. This remains equally valid and important in the Roadmap.
11. In particular, there are provisions which refer to the prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls, including measures to prevent sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in general and sexual violence in particular. Then, there are provisions on the protection and promotion of women and girls’ rights, including protection from SGBV, and the consideration of women and girls’ specific protection needs.
12. Therefore, it is evident that the letter and spirit of the gender provisions in the Revitalized Peace Agreement are deep and far-reaching, and aimed at creating a conducive environment for women in South Sudan to actively participate in the political, economic and social life of their country. It is important to recognise the role and value of women in all these aspects. Women are capable in decision-making, especially those affecting the social fabric and the environment, and they share information well. They bring additional perspectives, especially on issues that affect other women and girls. Women also provide holistic approaches and dimensions in today’s complex and evolving challenges in all spheres.
13. In spite of the fact that UNSCR 1325 on the role of women in conflict resolution and peace processes, which calls for the adoption of gender perspectives, especially of women’s and girls’ needs in peace agreements, and their implementation mechanisms, and for the protection and respect of their rights, women continue to face obstacles in the realisation of this aspiration, and do so during the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.
14. The challenges facing women are enormous, especially in our continent and also in South Sudan. They include those related to access to power, inclusivity and effective participation, and gender bias. Unless such challenges are adequately addressed, perspectives and concerns of women will be overlooked in politics as well as in the implementation of the Roadmap of the R-ARCSS. This therefore calls for women to be respected and not to be ignored or undermined, and women should be assertive in making their voices heard.
15. As the RTGoNU continues in the implementation of the Roadmap, there are some key bodies which need to be reconstituted and staffed. These include the Political Parties Council, the National Elections Commission, and the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC). Also related to the Constitution-making process is the establishment of the Preparatory Sub-Committee for the National Constitutional Conference, and recruitment of the Constitutional Drafting Committee.
16. As we know, the Agreement mandates 35% level of women’s participation in such bodies, and the nominees to these bodies need to reflect the gender, political, social, ethnic, religious, and regional diversity of South Sudan. RJMEC takes these considerations very seriously, and as we conduct our monitoring and evaluation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, we will ensure that these parameters get the proper level of attention.
17. Furthermore, along with all of us here, RJMEC celebrates International Women’s Day, and will continue to support gender-focussed activities such as this one. I sincerely thank the organisers of this event, and I look forward to hearing about how the workshop’s outcomes will contribute to the effective implementation of the Peace Agreement Roadmap in general, and the gender provisions in particular.
18. I wish you all a fruitful and successful workshop.
I Thank You.
H.E. Dr. Wani Igga, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Head of Economic Cluster
Hon. Justice Ruben Madol Arol, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
Hon. Ngor Kolong Ngor, Chairperson Anti-Corruption Commission
Honourable Ministers present
Excellencies, Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen
Good morning!
I am deeply honoured and privileged to speak on this occasion to mark the International Anti-Corruption Day in the Republic of South Sudan. I bring you greetings and sincere apologies from H.E Amb. Maj. Gen (rtd) Charles Tai Gituai, Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) who unfortunately could not attend this important event due to unavoidable circumstances.
I thank Hon. Ngor Kolong Ngor, Chairperson of the Anti-Corruption Commission for inviting RJMEC and for organizing this event. I also thank UNMISS for partnering with and supporting the Commission to make this event a success.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen
There is no doubt that corruption, misuse and abuses of public resources is one of the major conflict drivers and indeed a huge impediment to economic development, social services delivery, peacebuilding and transformation in every society. That is why reforms geared at promoting accountability, prudent and transparent management of public finances and oil revenues are at the core of the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
Indeed, a whole chapter, Chapter 4 of the R-ARCSS is dedicated to resource, economic and financial management reforms including institutional reforms, legislative reforms, oil/petroleum management, land reforms, environmental protection, wealth sharing and revenue allocation, public expenditure, borrowing, public finance management and enterprises development funds.
As you may all know by now, some good progress is being made in this regard. The Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity has initiated a number of reforms in Public Financial Management including operationalization of the treasury single account, creation of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Authority and review of several legislation including the Public Financial Management Act, National Audit Chambers Act, Petroluem Act, Petroluem Revenue Management Act, and the Anti-Corruption Commissions Act.
All these laws have now been reviewed by the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) which has drafted Amendment Bills and handed them over to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. These laws have been amended to align them with the Revitalized Peace Agreement and international best practices in order to ensure transparency and accountability. In the case of the Anti-Corruption Commission Bill, once enacted, the Commission will be reconstituted in accordance with the amended Act fully empowered to fight corruption and it will have all our support, consequently, South Sudan will have some of the most progressive and effective legal frameworks in the management of public finances and resources, including in the fight to combat corruption. What will remain however will be their full implementation and for this to happen, we must all play a role.
Therefore, the theme chosen for today’s celebration is particularly relevant for South Sudan, that is: “Your Role, Your Right. Say No to Corruption, Your No Count”. We are all being called to action.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen
As we mark this international day, dedicated to highlight the rights and responsibilities of all stakeholders-including states, government officials, civil servants, law enforcement officers, media, private sector, civil society, academia, women, youth, and the public generally in tackling corruption, let it begin with us here. Let us all say no to corruption.
RJMEC would like to use this opportunity to appeal to the RTGoNU, in particular to the Honorable Justice Ruben Madol Arol, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to expeditiously present all the amendment bills already submitted to him, by the NCAC to the Council of Ministers and table the same before the reconstituted TNLA for enactment soonest possible. Further, we appeal to the Honorable Madam Speaker to forward the Constitution Bill to H.E. the President for assent. The enactment of these pending laws and the assent of the Constitution Bill will lay a firm foundation for transparency and accountability in the Republic of South Sudan and aid our collective efforts towards implementation of the Peace Agreement for a democratic process of governance that is able to combat corruption.
As I conclude, I appeal to our regional and international partners to support the efforts of the Government and people of South Sudan to curb this vice of corruption, by building capacitie of critical institutions, like the Anti-Corruption Commission and Audit Chambers and put in place the necessary systems to investigate and curb the multifaceted challenges of corruption, including by sharing best practices.”
I thank you all and wish you a successful event.
STATEMENT BY H.E. AMBASSADOR MAJ. GEN. (rtd) CHARLES TAI GITUAI INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC TO THE HIGH-LEVEL GOVERNORS’ FORUM
Wednesday, 23 November 2021, Juba, South Sudan
- Your Excellency Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan
- Your Excellency Dr Riek Machar Teny, First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Governance Cluster;
- Your Excellency, Dr James Wani Igga, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Economic Cluster;
- Your Excellency, Taban Deng Gai, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Infrastructure Cluster;
- Your Excellency, Hussein Abdel Bagi, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Services Cluster;
- Your Excellency, Rebecca Nyandeng De Mabior, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Youth and Gender Cluster;
- The Rt Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba, Rt Hon. Speaker of the Reconstituted TNLA,
- Your Excellency, Nicholas Haysom, SRSG and Head of UNMISS
- Honourable Ministers,
- Governors, Deputy Governors and Chief Administrators of the Administrative Areas
- Excellencies Ambassadors,
- Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good morning!
1. It is my distinct honour to address this 6th High-Level Governors’ Forum, as the Interim Chairperson of the RJMEC this morning. When I had the privilege to address this Forum last year, I emphasized the core responsibility of the RTGoNU executives at national and state levels to ensure the full and timely implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
2. This November, the implementation of the R-ARCSS is already in its fifth year since it came into force in 2018. Notwithstanding the challenges, progress has been witnessed over the past years, including resolution of the number of states and their boundaries, establishment of executive and legislative arms of government at national and state levels, legal and institutional reforms, adherence to the permanent ceasefire, unification of the Command Structure and graduation of the first batch of the unified forces, among others.
3. However, aware of the fact that there are critical outstanding tasks of the R-ARCSS within the limited timeframe left, RJMEC requested the Parties to the R-ARCSS to prepare a roadmap and strategy for the implementation of the outstanding tasks.
4. On 2nd August, the Parties reached consensus on the Roadmap to a Peaceful and Democratic end to the Transitional Period of the R-ARCSS. The Council of Ministers of the RTGoNU endorsed it on 4th August, RJMEC consented to it on 1st September and the RTNL ratified it on 16th November 2022 pursuant to article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS. The Roadmap, which now extends the Transitional Period by 24 months from February 2023 to February 2025, was developed and owned by the Parties to the R-ARCSS themselves.
5. It is encouraging that the theme of the 6th Governor’s Forum is themed ‘accelerating the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement in accordance with the Roadmap 2022. This Forum, which is such an influential policy platform, is a very timely way in which to collectively address this issue, and I would like to thank the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, with support from the UNDP, for all their work in putting this Forum together. In particular, enhancing collaboration between all the RTGoNU structures from the national to the State levels is critical, particularly for timely, effective and efficient implementation of the R-ARCSS.
6. In line with the mandate of RJMEC, my statement this morning will focus on the status of implementation of the R-ARCSS to date chapter by chapter, highlight key pending tasks, recurring challenges, and conclude with recommendations.
Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
7. With regards to Chapter 1 on the RTGoNU, a number of tasks have been completed, key among these being:
a. the number of states and their boundaries was resolved in February 2020 by returning to 10 states and three Administrative Areas, from the previous figure of 32 states;
b. formation of government structures at the national and sub-national levels, including the executives and Transitional National Legislature and State Assemblies;
c. incorporation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement into the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan (TCRSS) 2011, as amended;
d. the passing of numerous pieces of legislation by the Transitional National Legislature, including the Constitutional Amendment Bills, the SSPDF Bill, the Wildlife Service Bill, the National Police Service Bill, the Political Parties Bill; and the Constitution-making Process Bill, and ratification of the Roadmap; and
e. initiating judicial reforms through the establishment of the ad-hoc Judicial Reform Committee in July 2022.
8. Some key tasks of Chapter 1 remain outstanding. They include the restructuring and reconstitution of the Institutions and Commissions at the national level, judicial reforms and tasks related to elections. A focus on elections is important because it is a central task of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, and the Roadmap itself is geared towards a peaceful and democratic end of the Transitional Period. In the opinion of RJMEC, careful attention to the following will greatly assist in accelerating the implementation of the Agreement, which is critical for this Forum:
a. provision of an enabling environment for elections, including the opening and preserving of civic and political space for all, to build confidence and participation in the process;
b. the process of making of the permanent constitution, the provisions of which will guide elections;
c. completion of the phase 2 of the unification and redeployment of all the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF);
d. the Political Parties Council needs to be reconstituted and operationalised;
e. the National Elections Act, 2012 must be reviewed and amended so that it conforms to the R-ARCSS and reconstitution of a competent and impartial National Elections Commission (NEC) to conduct elections;
f. implementation of programmes for relief, protection reconstruction, repatriation, resettlement, rehabilitation and reintegration of refugees, IDPs and returnees;
g. various critical election processes must begun early, such as voter registration, and publication of the voters register six months prior to elections; and
h. the security forces must prepare for elections-related security tasks at least six months before the end of the Transitional Period.
9. On the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements (TSA), the completed tasks include:
a. establishment or reconstitution of key Chapter II Security Mechanisms;
b. establishment of Cantonment Sites and Training Centres throughout the country, and graduation of the Necessary Unified Forces has begun, with only one more graduation event scheduled to take place before Phase I is completed;
c. reconstitution of the DDR Commission as a critical component of the unification of forces;
d. the holding of the Permanent Ceasefire between the Parties to the R-ARCSS despite violations at the tactical level; and
e. Agreement on the Unified Command structure of the united forces.
10. Considering the fact that Transitional Security Arrangements are the backbone of the Agreement, it is important to flag the outstanding tasks, which were supposed to have been accomplished by 30 September 2022 as provided for in the Roadmap. These tasks include: redeployment of Phase 1 of the graduated NUF and commencement of its Phase 2; finalisation of the Strategic Defence and Security Review documents; provision of clear and predictable funding for DDR programmes; and development of a clear plan for the management of weapons from troops going to training centres.
11. However, the conditions of instability in parts of the country, such as in some areas of the Equatoriasand Greater Upper Nile are complicating the implementation of the Transitional Security Arrangements. Subnational or inter-communal violence continues to sap the energy from full implementation of Chapter 2, as do the activities of the holdout groups. In particular, the State Governors present here today have a very important role to play in addressing these incidents of instability and the conditions which give rise to them.
Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
12. Under Chapter 3 of the Revitalised Peace Agreement on humanitarian affairs, the opening of some humanitarian corridors which have facilitated free movement of goods, supplies, services, and people across borders, enabling some voluntary returns is a critical benchmark. According to reports from UNHCR, at least half a million South Sudanese refugees have spontaneously returned home since October 2018.
13. Conversely, the current humanitarian context in the country presents a worrying picture. The magnitude and severity of humanitarian needs have continued to rise, due to the cumulative effects of prolonged community-based conflicts, widespread flooding, and high levels of food insecurity. Also, there are concerns regarding access and safety of humanitarian workers and their assets. This year alone, eight aid workers lost their lives.
14. Under this chapter 3 therefore, there are critical tasks awaiting to be implemented. They include the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund and the Board of the Special Reconstruction Fund (SRF), including preparation for the SRF programme and a detailed action plan for the reconstruction of conflict affected states and other areas. The requirement for the SRF of an initial funding of not less than USD 100 million per annum by 30th August 2022 in accordance to the Roadmap,has not been implemented. Without establishing the SRF, the South Sudan pledging conference cannot be convened. In addition, the R-ARCSS requires that the 2016, NGO Act should be reviewed to ensure that it is aligned with international best practices. But this law is yet to be reviewed and amended.
15. The tasks which are within the purview of the RTGoNU to be addressed include: the creation of an enabling environment for the delivery of humanitarian assistance; instituting programmes for relief protection, repatriation, reintegration and rehabilitation of IDPs and returnees, and offer special consideration to the war-affected persons in the provision of public service delivery, including access to health and education; guaranteeing the rights of refugees to return in safety and dignity, and the rights of returnees and assist in the reunification of separated families; guaranteeing refugee and IDP citizenship and ensuring IDs and all documentation for spouses, property and land; and guaranteeing the rights of returnees and IDPs to return to their places of origin and/or live in areas of their choice in safety and dignity.
16. Chapter 4, on Resource, Economic and Financial Management. During the Agreement period so far, critical benchmarks have been reached in the following areas:
a. establishment of a competent and effective mechanism that oversees revenue collection, budgeting, revenue allocation and expenditure;
b. review of all current employment in the oil sector;
c. review, vetting and taking of corrective measures on all contracts awarded to oil service companies;
d. review and audit of the previous allocation and transfer of the 2% and 3% made to oil producing States and counties since 2011;
e. progress by the Ministry of Petroleum in implementing reforms in the petroleum sector, including in the areas of employment and more transparent operations in the sale of oil.
17. Overall, however, public financial reforms have been slow. The tasks in need of careful attention include:
a. completion of the audits designed to enhance the transparent management of the petroleum resources, such as the cost recovery audit and environment audit;
b. completion of the audit of the Government’s Financial Statements, and completion of the review of banking laws;
c. review of the Fiscal and Financial Allocation Monitoring Commission;
d. closing any Petroleum revenue accounts other than those approved by law, which was supposed to have been completed by 30th August 2022; and
e. review of the Petroleum Act 2012, the Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 and the Audit Chamber Act 2011.
Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
18. In terms of Transitional Justice, Chapter 5; as we know the Agreement provides for the establishment of three mechanisms, namely: Commission for Truth Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH); the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA).
19. The following benchmarks have been achieved under the chapter:
a. approval of a roadmap for the implementation of chapter 5;
b. appointment of a ministerial task force to coordinate day to day implementation of Chapter 5;
c. establishment of a consultations mechanisms i.e., the Technical Committee on CTRH establishment;
d. the launch and completion of the first phase of public consultations that will inform the legislation establishing the Commission for Truth Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH);
e. study tours of The Gambia and later this month South Africa, to understand their transitional justice experiences, particularly around truth seeking and reconciliation processes;
f. commencement of the drafting of the CTRH bill; and
g. consultations commenced on good practices that will inform the Compensation and Reparation Authority legislative framework.
20. That said, none of the three mechanisms is established. Key outstanding tasks include: conducting public consultations with the other remaining stakeholders, such as refugees, IDPs and the Diaspora for the establishment of CTRH; establishment of CTRH by law, which was to be done by 30thOctober 2022 and operationalised by 30th November 2022; and initiation of legislation to establish the Hybrid Court for South Sudan and the Compensation and Reparation Authority.
21. Regarding Chapter 6, the constitution-making process was initiated by the RTGoNU in January 2021 with the adoption of a roadmap developed by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs (MoJCA). RJMEC convened a workshop for the Parties and Stakeholders who agreed on the details for conducting the constitution-making process in May 2021, and its resolutions informed the Constitution-making Process Bill 2022 drafted by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and passed by the Transitional National Legislature last month, October.
22. Once the Bill becomes law, it will pave the way for the reconstitution of the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC), including the establishment of the Preparatory Sub-Committee for the convening of the National Constitutional Conference. The Agreement requires the Parties and other Stakeholders to submit the list of their nominees to the taskforce within 30 days after the coming into force of the Bill. Also, the Reconstituted NCRC is mandated to recruit the members of the Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC). These bodies are critical in the making of the new constitution to guide the conduct of elections at the end of the Transitional Period.
Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
23. Throughout the period of implementation, various challenges have surfaced again and again. They include among others: the cumulative effects of prolonged subnational and inter-communal conflicts; capacity gaps; lack of funding; and the dire humanitarian situation contributed to by natural disasters such as floods.
24. Despite these challenges, and bearing in mind the slow pace of implementation, the Roadmap provides an opportunity to renew the impetus for building peace in South Sudan. There are immense tasks ahead, even with the extension, and time is of the essence. The people of South Sudan deserve nothing less than total implementation of the Roadmap in letter and spirit in order to enjoy the peace dividends that it brings.
25. In conclusion, I would like to offer the following recommendations to the RTGoNU, which also comprise you, the Governors. Firstly, adhere to the Roadmap timelines and prioritise their implementation through the availing of predictable, timely and adequate funding for all tasks. Next, all outstanding bills to be passed expeditiously by the TNLA. Then, pay careful attention to implementing all the tasks necessary for the smooth conduct of credible elections at the end of the extended Transitional Period. Throughout all governance-related tasks and appointments, ensure women’s participation in governance and decision-making at the Agreement-mandated level of 35%. Also please consider the Youth and People Living with Disabilities as well.
26. Next, complete phase 1 graduation and redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces, and commence with phase 2, which is overdue, and avail funding and political support to the DDR programmes, which is an essential component of the unification of forces. Also important is to undertake initiatives aimed at addressing inter-communal violence and the conditions which contribute to it. Finally, RJMEC recommends to fast track the establishment and operationalisation of the Transitional Justice mechanisms, and to ensure a people-led and people-driven constitution making process.
27. The end state of the Revitalised Peace Agreement is democratic transition through elections, and I have listed some of the key tasks to be implemented to help ensure their smooth conduct. State Governments have a strategic role to play in creating an enabling environment for the successful implementation of the R-ARCSS, including the conduct of elections.
28. I implore you to work collegially and in close collaboration with the national government, other state governments, lower-level government structures within your states, local capacities, and infrastructures for peace to ensure conflict early warning and mitigation, prevention, response and management. Your efforts will guarantee social cohesion, community security, safe political and civic space, public consultations during the permanent constitution-making process as well as during the time for conducting elections.
29. Finally, as the heads of State Government, I urge you to continue providing leadership in your respective States, strive to put the interest of the country first and work with your counterparts, no matter their political affiliations or identities, within the spirit of collegiality to implement the Revitalized Agreement of the Resolution to the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan - R-ARCSS.
I Thank You.
REMARKS BY H.E. AMB. MAJ GEN (RTD) CHARLES TAI GITUAI INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC AT THE GRADUATION OF THE UNIFIED FORCES
TUESDAY, 30 AUGUST 2022
JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN
· H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan;
· H.E. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairperson of the Sovereignty Council of Sudan and Chair of IGAD;
· H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda;
· H.E. Dr Riek Machar Teny, First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan;
· H.E. Hussein Abdelbagi Akol, Vice President and representative of South Sudan Opposition Alliance;
· Excellencies Vice Presidents of the Republic of South Sudan;
· Distinguished representatives of the Governments of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Republic of Rwanda and the United Republic of Tanzania.
· Hon. Tut Gatluak Manime, Chairperson of NTC,
· Hon. Ministers,
· Excellencies Ambassadors
· Distinguished Guests,
· Ladies and Gentlemen.
Good afternoon! Asalamu Aleykum!
1. It gives me great pleasure to speak at this historic event in the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan. Today’s graduation of the first batch of the Necessary Unified Forces, is an important milestone as envisaged under Chapter II of the Agreement.
2. As the Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission, the institution responsible for the overall oversight of the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, I do not take this occasion lightly, given the challenges which the Parties encountered in the unification of forces.
3. In this regard, I would like to congratulate H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan, H.E Dr. Riek Machar Teny, First Vice President and all the Four Vice Presidents, for making this leap forward. I also commend the National Transitional Committee, the Joint Defense Board (JDB), the Joint Transitional Security Committee and the Joint Military Ceasefire Commission for working collectively to achieve this milestone.
4. I would also like to commend H.E. Lt. Gen. Abdel Fatteh al Burhan, Chairperson of the Sovereignty Council of Sudan and Chairperson of IGAD Assembly of Heads of State and Government and other IGAD Heads of State and Government, for their unwavering efforts and commitment to support the South Sudan peace process.
Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
5. This graduation ceremony today symbolizes national unity, the spirit of patriotism, loyalty to the constitution and to the country. The unified forces reflect the national character of the people of South Sudan.
6. I would like to congratulate the graduating unified forces for their endurance, commitment and determination to serve the country as members of the security forces. As professional, apolitical security forces, the spirit of comradeship, discipline, espirit de corps and loyalty that you have developed during your training should serve as your guiding values as you get redeployed to your respective units.
7. Let this spirit of unification of forces be one of the building blocks in promoting national unity, reconciliation and cohesion which should be emulated across the country. The unified forces will enable the realization of a united, secure, peaceful and prosperous South Sudan.
Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
8. As I have always said, the unification of forces is the backbone of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Despite the challenges, this graduation is a testament and a clear indication of the determination by the Government of Republic of South Sudan to stay the course of peace.
9. However, despite this achievement, we have a long way to go to attain full unification of forces, including disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of ineligible candidates for the unification. We expect this momentum to be maintained and Phase II of unification to commence as quickly as possible.
10. I also take this opportunity to commend the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity for positively responding to the RJMEC’s request and prepared a Roadmap to a Peaceful and Democratic end to the Transitional Period of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. RJMEC has now scheduled an extraordinary meeting for this Thursday for the members to deliberate on the Roadmap.
11. As I conclude, it is my sincere hope and expectation that this graduation will also provide a timely boost to the overall implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement going forward. Much remains to be done across all the chapters of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, especially in the Permanent Constitution-making process, legislative reforms and the necessary preparations for free, fair and credible elections at the end of the Transitional Period.
12. I appeal to you all to build on this momentum that the graduation provides.
I Thank You.