Excellencies, 

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

1.   I welcome you to our 28th meeting of the RJMEC as we enter the second of the 24-month  extended Transitional Period, as per the RTGoNU Roadmap; with elections expected to be conducted in December 2024. As the monitoring body, it is our responsibility to keep track of these timelines and to constantly remind the RTGoNU and the Parties represented here, of their mandate and urgent responsibility, to expedite the implementation of the Peace Agreement in letter and spirit.

2.   I welcome the resumption of the Transitional National Legislature this week given that a lot of work remains to be done in terms of the legislative agenda in support of the implementation of the Agreement. I also welcome the statement of H.E President Salva Kiir Mayardit at the opening, in which the urgency of implementation of the Agreement was stressed and the assurance given that there will be no further extension to the Transitional Period. I reiterate H.E the President’s call for redoubling of efforts and cooperation among the Parties to ensure completion of the Transitional Period tasks. RJMEC is hopeful that this commitment will translate into availing the necessary resources to ensure the full and timely implementation of the Agreement. 

3.   In my statement this morning I will provide an update on the recent progress in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, highlight the recurrent challenges, and conclude with my observations and recommendations.

Excellencies, Ladies, and Gentlemen,

4.   First, governance: In terms of legislative reforms, some progress had been made by the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) in the reviews, amendments, and drafting of the NGO Act and the Investment Promotion Act, before its national members boycotted participation due to non-payment of their allowances. This boycott by the NCAC members is a matter of very serious concern because the NCAC mandate is expected to end in May 2023. In addition to the NGO Act and Investment Promotion Act, the NCAC still has four other bills to be worked on, including the Mining, Transport, Pension Fund, and Telecommunication Acts. I have written to the RTGoNU urging payment of allowances to the national members of the NCAC.

5.   On 24th March 2023, the Council of Ministers adopted the National Security Services Amendment Bill and it now awaits tabling before the reconstituted TNL for enactment.  This is a welcome development and I appeal to the TNL to expedite consideration and enactment of this Bill and all the others currently pending. The RTGoNU should also take steps to expedite the operationalization of all the enacted laws. 

6.   It is concerning that there is a long delay in the reconstitution of the various Commissions and Institutions at the national level in accordance with the Roadmap timelines. In our last meeting, we were assured by the RTGoNU that the restructuring and reconstitution of these Commissions and Institutions would be shortly concluded. I look forward to receiving an update from the RTGoNU representative on this matter. 

7.   In terms of the preparation for elections as per the Roadmap, no progess has been made in the reconstitution of the Political Parties Council despite the law having been enacted over 8 months ago. The reconstitution of the Council is critical to paving the way for the registration of political parties.  Also, the enactment of the National Elections Act and its operationalization is way behind schedule. As a result of these delays, all the elections-related tasks including the establishment and functioning of institutions that drive the elections process, are behind schedule. In this regard, I appeal to the TNL to prioritize passage of the National Elections Bill.

8.   On 3rd March H.E the President issued decrees one relieving the two national Ministers, that of Defense and Veteran Affairs and the Interior, and the other swapping the two ministries between the I-TGoNU and SPLM/A-IO. As you are all aware the SPLM/A-IO protested the decision, following which I engaged the concerned parties and encouraged them to amicably resolve this matter in the spirit of collegiality, consultations and consensus. 

9.   In accordance with the provisions of the Agreement, I also  briefed the Heads of State of IGAD on this development and appealed to them to assist the two parties to resolve this issue. There has since been internal mediation between the parties to find a suitable compromise on this matter. On 29th March H. E President Salva Kiir Mayardit appointed General Chol Thon Balok as the new minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs. 

10.  Next, Transitional Security Arrangements: The recent progress made in the unification of the middle and lower levels of command of the Necessary Unified Forces is commendable. The Parties agreed on a responsibility sharing ratio of 60:30:10 to the SSPDF, SPLA-IO and SSOA respectively. However,  the forces which graduated during Phase I are still in training centers, and their delayed redeployment has hindered the commencement of Phase II NUF training. In this regard, I would like to hear from the JDB on plans for redeployment of Phase I and the start of  Phase II. 

11.        Regarding the status of the Security Mechanisms, not much has changed since our last meeting. The JDB, JMCC, JTSC, and SDSR Board members still lack allowances to sustain themselves, as well as financial support to execute their Transitional Security Arrangements tasks. The DDR Commission has no funding and the CTSAMVM national monitors have not resumed work due to the non-payment of their allowances by the RTGoNU. I appeal once again to the RTGoNU to fund the work of all mechanisms including the DDR Commission  and I look forward to RTGoNU  briefing this plenary on the progress, in availing funds for all the Agreement implementation mechanisms.

12.  On Police reforms, it is reported that the Joint Transitional Security Committee (JTSC) Curriculum Development guide for the Necessary Unified Police Forces, which outlines the basic operational framework of the police component to sustain  professionalism, was developed and is available to be utilized for training. 

13.  I am also encouraged that the South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS) initiated a curriculum review process regarding Election Security to prepare the National Police to discharge its responsibilities in the upcoming elections. I would like to hear more on this from the JDB.

Excellencies, Ladies, and Gentlemen,

14.  Against the backdrop of increasing humanitarian needs, access and safety of humanitarian workers, goods, and assets remain a challenge. There have been several reported cases of attacks on humanitarian convoys, facilities, and personnel, as well as looting of humanitarian supplies, and access denial for humanitarian workers. These are matters that the RTGoNU should urgently address including by providing security along humanitarian corridors,  protecting humanitarian workers and their assets and holding perpetrators to account.

15.  On resource, economic and financial management, there has been a steady commitment to Public Financial Management (PFM) reforms as steps are being taken to publish budget execution reports, and oil revenue data. I would like to commend the RTGoNU in that regard. I wish to note that these reports need to be published in a timely manner in accordance with the Public Financial Management and Accountability Act and the Petroleum Revenue Management Act. Let me reiterate the need to legislate the amendment bills governing these PFM reforms, without which the responsible authorities will be challenged in completing the implementation of the relevant provisions of the Agreement.

16.  I note the progress registered so far in ensuring environmental protection, amid the many challenges posed by climate change in South Sudan. As required by the R-ARCSS, the Environment Protection Bill has been drafted and it proposes the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Environment Authority. In addition, the first National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and its Program for Action for climate change have been published. This is the first step toward establishing a coherent and effective process for  mainstreaming climate adaptation within the country’s development planning processes. However, achieving the objectives of the NAP will require a coordinated approach and the commitment of both state and non-state actors.

Excellencies, Ladies, and Gentlemen,

17.  In terms of transitional justice,  the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and the Technical Committee on CTRH establishment have been undertaking a series of public consultations. However, they are yet to embark on their mission to the refugee camps in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Sudan where they are slated to undertake public consultations with refugees. I therefore urge the RTGoNU to undertake the remaining phase of public consultations with refugees and complete the drafting of the CTRH and CRA legislations.

18.  On the establishment of the Hybrid Court for South Sudan, the  African Union Comission has formally requested  RTGoNU to meet and discuss on the way forward.  I therefore urge the RTGoNU and the African Union Commission to agree on a clear plan for the establishment of the Court.

19.  Regarding the making of the Permanent Constitution, there is  no further progress to report. It is now three months since  the  Constitution-making Process Act 2022 was assented to. Also,  the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs tabled a  Memorandum to Cabinet to operationalize this Act. I appeal to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to urgently provide guidance to the Parties and Stakeholders regarding the nominations of their representatives to the relevant constitution-making bodies, in accordance with the Act.  

Excellencies, Ladies, and Gentlemen,

20.  A lot of work remains to be done if the Roadmap timelines are to be adhered to as promised. The RTGoNU should demonstrate in action its commitment to deliver the transition in time not simply by word. This requires a solid commitment of resources to implement the Agreement. In that regard the call by the President for a National Economic Conference is a welcome initiative which should be complemented with the immediate establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund and convening of the South Sudan pledging conference to provide the neccesary funding for implementation of the Agreement. 

21.  In light of the above, I would like to reiterate the following recommendations to the RTGoNU:

a)   continue to consult and dialogue in the spirit of collegial collaboration and consensus in order to address emerging issues during implementation of the Agreement;

b)   provide adequate and predictable funding for the implementation of the critical pending tasks of the Agreement, in particular, the Constitution Making and Electoral processes and completion of the unification of forces;

c)    operationalize all the enacted laws, establish all institutions required by the Constitution-Making Process Act 2022, and expedite the enactment of the National Elections Bill; 

d)   expedite the redeployment of the graduated forces, commence Phase 2 of the unification of forces and begin Demobilisation, Disarmament, and Reintegration (DDR); and

e)   complete the process of drafting the CTRH and CRA legislation and submit it to the reconstituted TNL for enactment and engage the AU Commission to discuss modalities for the establishment of the Hybrid Court. 

22.  Finally, faced with the current setbacks and the slow pace of implementation, it is encumbent upon us to redouble our efforts, encourage and support the RTGoNU to accelerate the pace of implementation going forward, in order to provide a much needed impetus to the peace process.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.

- Your Excellency, Ali Al-Sadig, Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Sudan and Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers;

- Your Excellencies, Members of the Council;

- Your Excellency, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of IGAD;

- Your Excellencies, IGAD Special Envoys; 

- Excellencies;

- Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good morning!

1. I am honoured and privileged to brief this Council as the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), the body responsible for overseeing, monitoring and evaluating the status of the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan of 2018.

2. My briefing today will cover the key benchmarks which have been attained in its implementation, critical tasks which remain outstanding, recurrent challenges and conclude with recommendations.

3. Despite progress registered, RJMEC has regularly expressed its concerns regarding the slow pace of progress in the implementation of the Peace Agreement. That said, the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity responded positively to RJMEC’s call to prepare a Roadmap and strategy for implementing the Agreement’s critical outstanding tasks, and revised the timeline of the Agreement. The process of the extension of the Transitional Period was done in accordance with the provisions of article 8.4 of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.  

Your Excellencies,

4. I will now provide updates on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement since my last briefing to this august Council. 

5. On Governance, the National Constitutional Amendment Committee has reviewed and drafted several amendments to the key priority legislation, including the National Audit Chamber Act, Public Finance Management and Accountability Act, Petroleum Act, Petroleum Revenue Management Act, the National Elections Act and the Anti-Corruption Commission Act.

6. In addition, the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature passed the following bills: the South Sudan People’s Defense Force Bill, the Wildlife Service Bill, the National Police Service Bill, the Political Parties Bill and the Constitution-making Process Bill. Other bills are being processed.

7. The outstanding governance tasks include the completion of reforms of national Institutions and Commissions, judicial reforms and the necessary steps towards elections at the end of the transitional period.

8. On the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements, the South Sudan unity government resolved the impasse over the Unified Command structure, including the appointments of unified Commanders in April 2022. Furthermore, approximately 49,000 out of 53,000 Necessary Unified Forces have been unified. These forces are yet to be redeployed as they are currently being accommodated in the Training Centres. 

9. There are critical outstanding Transitional Security Arrangements tasks. They include commencement of Phase 2 training of the unified forces; management of weapons and munitions brought to the cantonment areas; and funding and operationalisation of Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Commission programmes. In addition, the Strategic Defence and Security Review which is critical for security sector reforms has not yet been completed.

10. Regarding Humanitarian Assistance and Reconstruction, some humanitarian corridors remain opened and continue to facilitate free movement of goods, services and people across borders, including the voluntary return of more than 600,000 people since 2018. However, various factors have exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in the country. These include prolonged subnational violence; widespread floods; food insecurity; reduced funding and lack of basic services. Furthermore, the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund, a critical coordinating mechanism for recovery and development efforts, is long overdue. 

11. As for Resource, Economic and Financial Management, it is encouraging to note that the South Sudan unity government has initiated reforms in Public Financial Management, which include operationalization of the treasury single account, creation of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Authority and review of legislation relating to Public Financial Management. Furthermore, policy reviews and the management of natural resources, agricultural policies, strategies and programmes are underway. However, the policy for the management of the country’s waterbodies, including but not limited to the Nile River that was prioritised in the Roadmap, is yet to be developed.  

12. On Transitional Justice, the South Sudan unity government conducted public consultations to help guide the legislation for the establishment of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing. The drafting of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing Bill and the Compensation and Reparation Authority Bill are both ongoing. On the Hybrid Court for South Sudan, the responsibility for its establishment lies with the African Union Commission working with the South Sudan unity government, and this is still pending.

13. The making of the permanent constitution is critical for guiding the conduct of elections at the end of the Transitional Period. Once the Constitution-making Process Bill 2022 becomes law, the South Sudan unity government will put in place all the institutions essential in the making of the new constitution.

14. During the Roadmap phase, it is critical that the South Sudan unity government provides 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. Overall, predictable funding and adequate logistical support for the implementation of the peace agreement is critical.

Your Excellencies,

15. Since the Revitalised Peace Agreement came into force in 2018, its implementation faced several challenges. They include trust deficit among the parties; capacity gaps of Agreement institutions and mechanisms; lack of adequate and predictable funding; and limited resources for implementation. 

16. Given the requirements of the Roadmap and the extension of the Transitional Period, RJMEC has appealed for a change of strategy and approach from all actors, importantly, including IGAD, to focus on facilitating progress in the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

17. I will now conclude with recommendations to this Council as follows:

a. increase engagements with the South Sudan unity government to encourage them to expedite implementation of the Roadmap within timelines;  

b. appeal to the South Sudan unity government to urgently address the root causes of intercommunal violence and insecurity in the country;

c. further appeal to the South Sudan unity government to establish and operationalize the Special Reconstruction Fund to  pave the way for the mobilisation of resources for post-conflict recovery and reconstruction; and

d. appeal to IGAD member states and the internaitonal community to consider political, logistical and financial support to the monitoring and oversight institutions, RJMEC and CTSAMVM, to enhance their operational capabilities.

18. In conclusion, I would like to highlight that this is the time to ensure that the Revitalised Peace Agreement, being one of IGAD’s key flagship peace agreements in the region, succeeds. As the Revitalised Peace Agreement enters another critical moment, IGAD’s visibility in South Sudan is needed now more than ever.

I Thank You!

- Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council;

- Commissioner of Peace and Security; 

- Your Excellencies Permanent Representatives; 

- Excellencies;

- Ladies and Gentlemen.

Your Excellency,

1. I am honoured to once again address this Council as the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC). Since my last briefing to you, key milestones have been reached in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). Key among them were:

a. Phase 1 of the graduation of forces is nearing completion with approximately 49,000 out of 53,000 graduated; 

b. the Constitution-making Process Bill, among others, was passed by the Reconstituted Transitional National Legislature and is awaiting assent by the President; 

c. implementation of the R-ARCSS has entered its fifth year with sustained efforts towards peace, despite the many challenges; 

d. the Parties have all agreed on a 24-month extension of the Transitional Period with a clear Roadmap to a Peaceful and Democratic Elections at the end; 

e. the RJMEC pronounced itself on the Roadmap with clear recommendations on steps to be taken in order to ensure that critical tasks outlined in the Roadmap are implemented as scheduled. 

2. In spite of this progress, some critical tasks remain outstanding.   

3. In my briefing today, I will therefore only highlight the key issues which require this Council’s attention and conclude with recommendations.

Your Excellency,

4. Since my last briefing, the timeframe of the Revitalised Peace Agreement has been extended by 24 months, effective February 2023, in accordance with the “Agreement on the Roadmap to a Peaceful and Democratic end to the Transitional Period of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan”, hereafter referred to as ‘the Roadmap’. 

5. Pursuant to article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS, the Roadmap was agreed to by the Parties on 4th August, endorsed by the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) Council of Ministers on 5th August, consented to by RJMEC on 1st September 2022 and ratified by the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature on 16th November 2022. Even with the extension, however, there is much to do and time is already pressing.

Your Excellency,

6. I will now give an update on the status of implementation, chapter-by-chapter. First, on Governance. The Reconstituted Transitional National Legislature passed several pieces of legislation, importantly the South Sudan People’s Defence Force Bill, the Wildlife Service Bill, the National Police Service Bill, Political Parties Bill and the Constitution-making Process Bill.

7. The National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) continues with the reviews and drafting of amendment bills. To date, the NCAC has completed drafting amendment bills of the National Audit Chamber Act, Public Finance Management and Accountability Act, Petroleum Act, Petroleum Revenue Management Act, the National Elections Act and the Anti-Corruption Commission Act.

8. The restructuring and reconstitution of the Institutions and Commissions at the national level is work in progress. The reforms include streamlining their mandates and appointments to ensure their independence and accountability in accordance with the law, taking into consideration inclusivity, national diversity and gender.

9. On the permanent ceasefire and transitional security arrangements, the graduation of the first batch of the Necessary Unified Forces is nearing completion with approximately 49,000 forces out of the expected 53,000 graduated. The unified forces now need to be redeployed, and this overdue. I am concerned that the graduated unified forces have been returned to the Training Centres, which is delaying the commencement of Phase 2 training. Furthermore, the unified forces are not being remunerated. We expect the RTGoNU to take appropriate action.

10. There are security related tasks yet to be undertaken, including finalising the Strategic Defence and Security Review documents, availing clear and predictable funding for the DDR Commission and its programmes, and a clear plan for the management of weapons and munitions collected from all forces. 

Your Excellency, 

11. Regarding humanitarian assistance and reconstruction, the opening of some humanitarian corridors has facilitated free movement of goods services and people across borders, including voluntary returns. According to UNHCR, more than 600,000 people have returned since 2018. 

12. However, the magnitude and severity of humanitarian needs in the country have continued to rise due to the effect of prolonged subnational violence, widespread flooding, food insecurity, decline in funding and lack of the provision of basic services, particularly the conflict-affected population. There are also concerns related to safety of humanitarian workers and their assets as well as access to those in need.

13. The critical outstanding tasks include the establishment of Special Reconstruction Fund (SRF) and its Board, the requisite USD 100 million funding per annum from the RTGoNU and the review of the NGO Act 2016.  In this regard, I have urged the RTGoNU to expedite the establishment of the SRF to pave the way for the Pledging Conference, pursuant to the 1060th AU PSC Communique. 

14. On Resource, Economic and Financial Management, some progress has been registered in policy reviews and the management of natural resources as required by the Revitalised Peace Agreement. Agricultural policies, strategies and programmes are being developed, and the National Land Policy is being finalised. However, the policy for the management of South Sudan’s waterbodies, including but not limited to the River Nile that was prioritised in the Roadmap, is yet to be developed.  

15. The Strategic Economic Development Roadmap was reviewed and aligned with the R-ARCSS and is being implemented and prioritises the security, humanitarian, and development nexus. It also focuses on devolution of powers and resources which is being operationalised with the development of State plans for all the ten states and three Administrative Areas.

16. The legal and institutional framework for the Youth and Women Enterprise Development Funds for the vulnerable private sector are being developed and the South Sudan Pension Fund (SSPF) has been operationalised but needs to broaden its coverage beyond civil service to include the wider public and private sectors.

17. The Public Financial Management reforms namely, the operationalization of the treasury single account, creation of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Authority, the enactment of legislations relating to Public Financial Management have been slow and need to be prioritised.    

18. In terms of transitional justice, the RTGoNU has conducted public consultations to help guide the legislation establishing the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH). The drafting of the CTRH Bill and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) Bill are both ongoing. On the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS), the responsibility for its establishment lies with the African Union Commission (AUC) working with the RTGoNU, and this is still pending. I urge the AUC to expedite the process leading to the establishment  of the Court.

19. The making of the permanent constitution is critical for the conduct of elections at the end of the transitional period. In this regard, the Constitution-making Process Bill 2022 was passed by the Transitional National Legislature and awaits assent by the President. Once the Bill becomes law, it will pave the way for the reconstitution of the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC), recruitment of the Constitutional Drafting Committee (CDC) and appointment of the Preparatory Sub-Committee (PSC) which will be responsible for the convening of the National Constitutional Conference. These bodies are critical in the making of the new constitution to guide the conduct of elections at the end of the Transitional Period and their establishment is long overdue.

20. During this Roadmap phase, it is also critical that the RTGoNU provides 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. Overall, predictable funding and adequate logistical support for the implementation of the peace agreement is critical.

Your Excellency,

21. Since the Revitalised Peace Agreement came into force in 2018, its implementation faced several challenges. These include trust deficit among the parties; capacity gaps of Agreement institutions and mechanisms; lack of adequate and predictable funding; limited resources for implementation; flooding; and activities of the holdout groups and subnational violence.

22. Depite the above challenges, the Roadmap provides an opportunity for creating the conditions necessary for the conduct of peaceful and democratic elections at the end of the Transitional Period. This requires changes in strategies and approaches from the parties, South Sudanese stakeholders, the regional guarantors and international partners and friends of South Sudan. There is need for the RTGoNU to, inter alia, demonstrate the urgency, unity of purpose, commitment, extra effort and political will required to implement the tasks outlined in the Roadmap as scheduled. The regional guarantors and international community should enhance their approaches in engaging the RTGoNU and the various Agreement Institutions and Commissions with a strong focus in facilitating progress.

1. I will now conclude with my recommendations to this august Council. The Peace and Security Council to:

a. engage the RTGoNU to adhere to the Roadmap timelines and prioritise their implementation through the availing of predictable, timely and adequate funding for all tasks; 

b. urge the AU Commission to provide political, technical, and logistical support to the RTGoNU during the implementation of the Permanent Constitution-making process and elections;

c. encourage the RTGoNU to ensure civic and political space are guaranteed and protected throughout the country;

d. urge the AU Commission and member states to support the RTGoNU with expertise and resources needed to support the DDR process and the management of weapon and munitions stockpiles;

e. engage with the RTGONU to kickstart the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund and its Board to pave the way for the convening of the South Sudan pledging conference;

f. urge the AU Commission to expedite the process for the establishment of the Hybrid Court for South Sudan; and 

g. appeal to the RTGoNU to fast track the establishment and operationalisation and funding of the CTRH and CRA.

2. Finally, there is need for us all (IGAD, AU and UN) to consolidate our efforts, speak with one voice, and bring our collective leverage to bear and push for timely implementation of the Roadmap.

I Thank You!

Honourable Ministers, 

Excellencies, 

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

1.        I welcome you all to the 25th meeting of the RJMEC. We last met on 17 November, four weeks ago, and we are here today following a period of focused and intense regional engagements. There have been recent meetings of the IGAD Council of Ministers, the African Union Peace and Security Council, and the United Nations Security Council, during which the fast-tracking of the peace process in the Republic of South Sudan has been top of the agenda, as it was at the recent Sixth Governor’s Forum. 

2.        On 30 November 2022, RJMEC attended and engaged with the IGAD Council of Ministers at its 48th Ordinary Session in Khartoum, Sudan, and addressed the African Union Peace and Security Council on the same day. I also briefed the UN Security Council last night. 

3.        With respect to the IGAD meeting, allow me to highlight some of the critical resolutions made concerning implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement: 

a) the Council welcomed the roadmap; 

b) urged the RTGoNU and Parties to implement the Roadmap in letter and spirit; 

c) decided to undertake a joint ministerial visit to Juba; 

d) to hold a bi-annual Extraordinary IGAD Council of Ministers meeting to review progress in implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement; and 

e) to convene a meeting of the IGAD Chief of Defence Forces to assess the immediate needs of CTSAMVM.

4.        Regarding the AU Peace and Security Council meeting held on 30 November, it reiterated the commitment of the AU as a guarantor of the Revitalised Agreement, requested that its Panel of the Wise visit South Sudan, and it also decided to undertake a solidarity visit to South Sudan on the third anniversary of the formation of the Transitional Government on 22 February 2023. Clearly, RJMEC’s appeals regarding the importance of consolidating our efforts, speaking with one voice, and bringing our collective leverage to bear and push for timely implementation of the Roadmap has been taken seriously, and this augurs well for South Sudan.

5.        I also had the opportunity recently of briefing the President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Dr. William Ruto, on issues related to the Revitalised Peace Agreement. Furthermore, the holding of the Inter-Parliamentary games here in Juba, featuring so many Members of Parliament from the East African region, is a very positive signal. 

6.        The leaderships in the region and beyond have shown their determination to urgently build on recent progress in order to push for more implementation. Therefore, it is incumbent upon the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) to match that level of determination in the pace of implementation of the Roadmap. 

7.        Furthermore, the recently concluded Sixth Governor’s Forum, with the theme ‘Accelerating the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement in accordance with the Roadmap 2022’, also provided a high-level platform to deliberate the issues which are critical to the timely implementation of the Agreement. 

8.        Thus as we come to the close of the year 2022, my statement this morning will only highlight the most recent developments in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) in accordance with Roadmap since our last Plenary. I will focus on progress made, outstanding tasks within the Roadmap timeframe, and conclude with recommendations.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

9.        First, governance. Since we last met, the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) has made significant progress drafting key priority legislation, with the National Elections Act 2012 and Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 both recently completed and submitted to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. Additionally, the NCAC has begun its review of the National Revenue Authority Act, and the Bank of South Sudan Act, and the Banking Act to ensure alignment with the R-ARCSS. That said, these bills are yet to be presented to the Council of Ministers or tabled to the Transitional National Legislature.  I urge further progress in this regard.

10.    Next, security. The graduation on 21 November in Malakal, Upper Nile State, brings the total of those graduated in Phase 1 of the unification of forces to approximately 49,000 out of the target 53,000. As reported at the last Plenary, commencement of Phase 2 of forces was to have begun by 30 September 2022. It is expected that Phase 2 will involve troops assembling in the Cantonment Sites with weapons ready to move to training areas. I look forward to receiving an update from the Joint Defence Board.

11.    Next, regarding CTSAMVM verified violations of the Transitional Security Arrangements. In my last plenary statement, I highlighted two violation reports, namely, Sexual and Gender Based Violence in Koch and Leer Counties of Unity State, and the torture and killing of three civilians in Kiri Boma of Kajo Keji County, Central Equatoria State. I would like to report that RJMEC received a response from the SSPDF Chief of Defence Forces on the latter, who informed us that the investigation was concluded, and the matter is before the court. In the same vein, it is important that RJMEC’s other letters about violation reports are responded to. 

12.    Since the last Plenary, CTSAMVM has written further violation reports about denial of access, information and harassment of CTSAMVM personnel at Wunliet Cantonment Site in Central Equatoria State, and recruitment and training in Northern Bahr el Ghazal state. CTSAMVM will provide further details. 

13.    As highlighted in our recent joint statement of RJMEC, UNMISS, the African Union Mission in South Sudan, IGAD, and some members of the international community, RJMEC is deeply concerned over the escalating violence in both Upper Nile and Jonglei States with innocent lives being lost, thousands displaced, livelihoods and property destroyed. If not addressed urgently, the wider ramifications of such violence could destabilize the ongoing implementation of the Peace Agreement. It is important that CTSAMVM, which reports to RJMEC, be given the necessary resources to investigate and evaluate such incidents of violence. 

14.    In terms of humanitarian affairs, according to UN OCHA, an estimated 9.4 million people are expected to have humanitarian and/or protection needs in 2023, an increase of half a million people since 2022. As we know, there are growing concerns that the magnitude and severity of humanitarian needs are persistent and rising. Therefore, I would like to reiterate the importance of the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund, a critical coordinating mechanism for recovery and development efforts. I appeal to the RTGoNU to establish the Board of the Special Reconstruction Fund, and for it to work closely with partners to mobilise the requisite resources, including through the South Sudan pledging conference.

15.    On the management of economic and financial resources, it is encouraging to note that overall, the RTGoNU has registered some milestones in policy reviews and the management of natural resources, agricultural policies, strategies and programmes. The National Land Policy is now in its final stage. However, the policy for the management and use of the country’s waterbodies, including but not limited to the River Nile that was prioritised in the Roadmap, is yet to be developed.

16.    On Chapter 5, transitional justice, RJMEC expects public consultations with refugees and persons in the diaspora to commence soon to further guide the drafting of the legislation establishing the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH). The Ministry of Justice continues to undertake expert consultations that will inform the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) legislative framework. RJMEC urges the Ministry to complete this phase of the process and expedite the drafting of the CTRH and the CRA Bill.

17.    On Chapter 6, the parameters of the permanent constitution, I am informed that the Constitution-making Process Bill 2022 passed by the Transitional National Legislature (TNL) has not yet been submitted to the President for assent to become law. This is important to kickstart the reconstitution and appointment of the relevant institutions essential for the making of the new constitution, which include the National Constitutional Review Commission, the Preparatory Sub-Committee for the convening of National Constitutional Conference, and then, the Constitution Drafting Committee.

18.    Meanwhile, it is important to note that the Agreement institutions and mechanisms, such as the NCAC, Judicial Reform Committee, CTSAMVM, among others, are critical to the ongoing implementation of the Agreement. It is essential that the allowances of their national members continue to be paid in order to facilitate their work, and I would like to receive a report from the National Transitional Committee on this matter. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

19.    As I have said previously in this forum, peaceful and democratic elections are within our reach, and are possible in the next 24 months, if we focus our collective efforts on facilitating progress. My recommendations to the RTGoNU are as follows:

a)   adhere to the Roadmap timelines and prioritise their implementation through the availing of predictable, timely and adequate funding for all tasks; 

b)   urge the reconstituted TNL to expedite the processing of all Bills before the Legislature;

c)    commence with Phase 2 of the unification of forces, which is overdue, and avail funding and political support to the DDR programmes, which is an essential component of the unification of forces; 

d)   address subnational violence, especially in Upper Nile and Jonglei States, hold perpetrators accountable, and take steps to address the root causes and protect civilians and their property;

e)   kickstart preparations for the reconstitution and appointment of the critical Constitution Making mechanisms and institutions, including giving due attention to the 35% level of women’s participation, as well as taking note of youth and people living with disabilities; and

f)    take note of both the communiques from the 48th Ordinary Session of the IGAD Council of Ministers and the 1123rd meeting of the AU PSC from their 30 November meetings on South Sudan.

20.    In conclusion, I would like to highlight the first resolution of the Sixth Governor’s Forum, which affirmed the “commitment of the States and the Administrative Areas to implementation of the R-ARCSS through the Roadmap 2022.” With this in mind, and against the backdrop of the diplomatic support affirmed at the recent IGAD, AU Peace and Security Council and UN Security Council meetings, RJMEC expects that progress should be more rapid and substantial in the new year 2023. 

21.    As I told the Governor’s Forum, there are immense tasks and expectations ahead, and even with the extension, 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.

22.    I would like to finally take this opportunity to wish each one of you a very Merry Christmas, and may the New Year bring you the strength and impetus to continue with the important work of building durable peace in South Sudan.

I Thank You.

-       President of the UN Security Council,

-       Distinguished Members of the Council,

-       Excellencies,

-       Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

1.   It is my pleasure to brief the Security Council today, which is just over nine months since I last briefed this august Council. I would like to take this opportunity to thank this Council for the invitation, expressed in UNSC Resolution 2633, adopted on 26 May 2022, to “share relevant information with the Council, as appropriate, on its assessment of the parties’ implementation of the Revitalised Agreement, adherence to the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, and the facilitation of unhindered and secure humanitarian access.” Furthermore, article 7.9 of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) mandates us to report, inter alia, to this Council every three months. 

2.   The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) is the official oversight body mandated to monitor, evaluate, and report on the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement. RJMEC oversees the mandate and tasks of the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU), including the adherence by the Parties to the agreed timelines and implementation schedule. RJMEC is comprised of 43 members, as per article 7.2, including the Parties to the Agreement, other South Sudanese stakeholders, regional guarantors, UNMISS, IGAD countries, the AU, People’s Republic of China, and the Troika, all of which participate in the delivery of our mandate.  

3.   My briefing to this Council will focus on the key milestones achieved in the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement since my last report in March 2022, and critical pending tasks. I will also highlight challenges, and conclude with my recommendations.

 Mr. President

4.   As reported to this Council in March 2022, due to the slow pace of progress of the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, RJMEC urged the Revitalised Transitional Government to prepare a roadmap, including its strategy for implementing the Agreement’s critical outstanding tasks. 

5.   The Revitalised Transitional Government duly developed a roadmap setting out the path to peaceful and democratic elections. The Roadmap, entitled “Agreement on the Roadmap to a Peaceful and Democratic end to the Transitional Period of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan”, has been endorsed by the RJMEC and ratified by the Reconstituted Transitional National Legislature (TNL) in accordance with Article 8.4 of the Revitalised Peace Agreement. This detailed document, developed and owned by the Parties to the Agreement themselves, contains a wide range of critical tasks and timelines, which, if implemented fully in letter and spirit, would ensure the conduct of peaceful and credible democratic elections in December 2024.  

Mr. President,

6.   I will now give a chapter-by-chapter update on progress. On Governance, the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature (TNL) passed the following bills: the South Sudan People’s Defense Force Bill, the Wildlife Service Bill, the National Police Service Bill, the Political Parties Bill and the Constitution-making Process Bill. Other bills, such as the National Prisons Service Bill and the Civic Defense Service Bill, are being processed by the TNL.

7.   In addition, the National Constitutional Amendment Committee has reviewed and drafted several amendments to the key priority legislation, including the National Audit Chamber Act, Public Finance Management and Accountability Act, Petroleum Act, Petroleum Revenue Management Act, the National Elections Act and the Anti-Corruption Commission Act. It is currently reviewing the National Revenue Authority Act, the Bank of South Sudan Act, and the Banking Act.

8.   The outstanding governance tasks required by Chapter 1 include the judicial reforms in article 1.17, the completion of reforms of national Institutions and Commissions, listed in article 1.19, and the reconstitution of the Political Parties Council, the amendment of the National Elections Act, and the reconstitution of the National Elections Commission, in article 1.20.   

9.       On the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements, the Revitalised Transitional Government resolved the impasse over the Unified Command structure, including the appointments of unified Commanders in April 2022. Furthermore, approximately 49,000 out of 53,000 Necessary Unified Forces of Phase 1 have been graduated. However, Phase 2 of the unification of forces, which will complete the graduation of the Necessary Unified Forces, has not yet begun, and is overdue.  

10.   That said, insecurity persists in some parts of South Sudan. As highlighted in our recent joint statement of RJMEC, UNMISS, the African Union Mission in South Sudan, IGAD, and some members of the international community, RJMEC is deeply concerned over the escalating violence in both Upper Nile and Jonglei States with innocent lives being lost, thousands displaced, livelihoods and property destroyed. If not addressed urgently, the wider ramifications of such violence could destabilize the ongoing implementation of the Peace Agreement. It is important that the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), which reports to RJMEC, be given the necessary resources to investigate and evaluate such incidents of violence. 

11.   There are critical Transitional Security Arrangements tasks which have not yet been completed. They include the funding and operationalisation of Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission programmes, and the Strategic Defence and Security Review, which is critical for security sector reforms.

12.   Regarding Humanitarian Assistance and Reconstruction, some humanitarian corridors remain opened and continue to facilitate free movement of goods, services and people across borders, including the voluntary return of more than 600,000 people since 2018. However, various factors have exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in the country. These include prolonged subnational violence; widespread floods; food insecurity; reduced funding and humanitarian access, and lack of basic services. Furthermore, the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund, in article 3.2 of the Agreement, a critical coordinating mechanism for recovery and development efforts, is long overdue.  

13.   As for Resource, Economic and Financial Management, it is encouraging to note that the Revitalised Transitional Government has initiated reforms in Public Financial Management, and relevant banking and resource management laws are being reviewed.  Furthermore, policy reviews and the management of natural resources, agricultural policies, strategies and programmes are underway. However, the comprehensive policy for the use and management of the country’s waterbodies, including but not limited to the River Nile that was prioritised in the Roadmap, is yet to be developed.  

14.   On Transitional Justice, the Revitalised Transitional Government conducted public consultations to help guide the legislation for the establishment of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH). The drafting of the CTRH Bill and the Compensation and Reparation Authority Bill is ongoing. On the Hybrid Court for South Sudan, the responsibility for its establishment lies with the African Union Commission working with the Revitalised Transitional Government, and this is still pending.

15.   The making of the permanent constitution is critical for guiding the conduct of elections at the end of the Transitional Period and some progress has been made in this regard. On 24 October 2022, the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature passed the Constitution Making Process Bill 2022, but it has yet to be presented to the President for assent. Once signed into law, the Revitalised Transitional Government is expected to reconsitute and appoint all the institutions essential for the making of the permanent constitution.

Mr. President,

16.   During the Roadmap phase, it is critical that the Revitalised Transitional Government provides 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 and expedite implementation of all critical outstanding tasks. 

17.   There is also need for all actors, parties and stakeholders alike, including partners and friends of South Sudan to focus more on facilitating progress. To achieve these, there is need to continue building trust amongst the Parties; enhance capacity of implementers; address subnational violence, and the dire humanitarian situation. Furthermore, RJMEC, and CTSAMVM in particular, face significant operational challenges following the withdrawal of US funding.  

Mr. President,

18.        I would like to close my statement with the following recommendations to this august Council:

a.   increase engagements with the Revitalised Transitional Government to adhere to the Roadmap timelines and prioritise their implementation through the availing of predictable, timely and adequate funding for all tasks;

b.   urge member states to provide political, technical, and logistical support to the Revitalised Transitional Government for the implementation of the priority areas of the Roadmap, including the DDR process, the Permanent Constitution-making process, and elections;

c.    encourage the Revitalised Transitional Government to ensure civic and political space are guaranteed and protected throughout the country;

d.   appeal to the Revitalised Transitional Government to urgently address the root causes of intercommunal violence and insecurity in the country, especially in Upper Nile and Jonglei States;

e.    further appeal to the Revitalised Transitional Government, in collaboration and support of international partners and friends of South Sudan, to establish and operationalise the Special Reconstruction Fund to  pave the way for the mobilisation of resources for post-conflict recovery and reconstruction; and

f.     appeal to member states to consider political, logistical and financial support to the monitoring and oversight institutions, RJMEC and CTSAMVM, to enhance their operational capabilities.

19.        Finally, Madam President, I would like to appeal to the Council to remain seized of the peace process in South Sudan, and to consider undertaking regular visits to South Sudan as a show of solidarity. IGAD and the AU have responded very positively to RJMEC’s recent appeals for enhanced engagement with South Sudan. The importance of consolidating our efforts, speaking with one voice, and bringing our collective leverage to bear and pushing for timely implementation of the Roadmap cannot be overemphasised.

20.        For the Roadmap to be implemented in letter and spirit within the stipulated timeline, the full support of the Security Council will be of great importance as the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan continues to offer the best opportunity of lasting peace in South Sudan.

I Thank You.