Honourable Ministers, 

Excellencies, 

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning!

1. I welcome you all to the 23rd meeting of the RJMEC. At the outset, I would like to congratulate the Government and the People of the Republic of South Sudan, upon commemorating the 11th independence anniversary on 9th July 2022.

2. I also commend Pope Francis for sending his emissary, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, with a message of prayers and continuing hope for the realization of enduring peace, healing and reconciliation in the Republic of South Sudan.

3. These two events should make us reflect deeply on how far we have come and how far we have to go collectively to achieve South Sudanese aspirations of an independent, peaceful, prosperous and democratic state. 

4. This month also marks seven months to the end of the Transitional Period of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, and this is a critical moment in its implementation.

5.  By now, you should have all received our comprehensive evaluation report on the status of implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement from the beginning of the Transition Period to the end of June 2022. We also recently published our latest Quarterly report for the period March to June 2022.

6.  As you may have read in the matrices attached to the Evaluation report, by now, all critical tasks, including the constitution-making process should have been completed and preparation for the conduct of elections should have been in high gear. However, this is not the case. Critical tasks, including some pre-transitional tasks, like the unification of forces, are still pending.

7.   It is precisely because of the aforementioned reasons, that RJMEC had as early as December 2021 urged the RTGoNU to develop a clear roadmap with a strategy to implement the critical pending tasks of the Agreement. Then in our 21st Plenary held on 10 February 2022, I presented a chapter-by-chapter status of implementation report in which I again stressed the need for a clear strategy going forward. At that meeting, the RTGoNU representative expressed the commitment of the government, to develop a roadmap towards elections at the end of the Transitional Period. 

8.  Therefore, the news that a draft Roadmap was presented to the President on Friday 15thJuly 2022 is a welcome development. I understand that this draft will be discussed by the Presidency before being tabled to the Parties for consideration. Once adopted by the RTGoNU it will be presented to RJMEC. The RTGoNU representative will brief us more on the roadmap.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

9. I will now focus my statement on the developments in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement since our last plenary, highlight some of the challenges, the ongoing RJMEC efforts, and will conclude with recommendations.

10.   Under Chapter 1, some progress was made towards Judicial and Legal reforms. On 20thMay 2022, IGAD officially submitted the list of nominees and appointees to the ad hocJudicial Reform Committee (JRC), a body mandated to study and recommend appropriate judicial reforms to the RTGoNU.

11.   Then, on 18th June 2022, Justice James Ogoola (Uganda) and Lady Justice Joyce Alouch (Kenya), the appointed Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the JRC respectively reported to Juba and commenced the Committee’s preparatory work. To that end, the JRC leadership paid courtesy calls on senior government officials and held a joint introductory meeting with the national members of the Committee. The JRC is expected to commence its work in mid-August for a duration of six months.

12.   The National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) has reviewed and submitted the Public Financial Management and Accountability Act 2011 (Amendment) Bill 2022 to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and has made progress in the review of other bills. I commend the NCAC for its dedication to deliver on its mandate. The NCAC will provide us with a further update on the status of its work.

13.   The Transitional National Legislative Assembly has passed the Wildlife Services Amendment Bill 2022 and the Constitution Making Process Bill 2022. I welcome this development. With regard to the reservations raised by some parties on the TNLA handling of the Political Parties Amendment Bill, I welcome the decision by H.E Salva Kiir Mayardit to discuss the matter with the Presidency, and I appeal to all Parties to always strive to achieve consensus fully aware that, where this is not possible, the R-ARCSS provides for decision making by a two-thirds majority.

14.   On the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements, there has been a reduction in clashes between SSPDF allied elements and the SPLA-IO since the unification of Command. Despite the April agreement on a unified command structure, progress towards the graduation of the unified forces has stalled. Nonetheless, I am encouraged by the recent statement of H.E. the President, that the Presidency will soon meet and set a date for the graduation of the unified forces. With regard to the DDR process, I am informed that the Commission’s budget for repatriation of an estimated 2,000 ex-combatants, currently in training centres has been approved by the National Transition Committee, and I urge the Ministry of Finance to fast-track disbursement of these funds. 

15.   Recently, I wrote to the President as well as the Chairman of the JDB regarding the serious violations to the transitional security arrangements in Unity and Upper Nile states, as reported by CTSAMVM. I specifically requested that the perpetrators of these atrocities be held to account.

16.   I would like to commend the SSPDF leadership for the recently concluded Court Martial in Yei, Central Equatoria State that resulted in the trial and conviction of several soldiers for crimes committed against civilians such as murder, rape and looting, among others.  It is important that all perpetrators of violence are held accountable.

17.   Regarding the Sant ’Egidio-led mediation, some progress has been made. CTSAMVM recently completed an induction training in Rome, Italy, of national monitors representing the South Sudan Opposition Movement Alliance (SSOMA) of Gen. Paul Malong and Pagan Amum. They are now expected to be integrated within the CTSAMVM Monitoring and Verification Teams by mid-August. I would like to encourage the other group of SSOMA allied to the National Salvation Front (NAS) of Gen. Thomas Cirillo to join the dialogue in good faith towards finding a lasting solution.

 18.   On the humanitarian chapter, we welcome the opening of humanitarian corridors between Twic County, Warrap State and the Abyei Administrative Area. In addition, there has been the restoration of river transport between Sudan’s White Nile State and Upper Nile State.

19.   However, bureaucratic impediments and funding cuts are affecting the delivery of critical lifesaving services such as emergency food, nutrition and health service provision.   The imposition of taxes on humanitarian goods is also affecting the delivery of these services. I urge the RTGoNU to take steps to address the above concerns, including the availing of more resources to address the humanitarian situation.

20.   On the economic affairs chapter, we welcome the launching of the revised National Development strategy, which has been aligned with the Revitalised Agreement. The importance of this strategy among others, is to establish and strengthen institutions for transparent, accountable and inclusive governance; foster macroeconomic stability and build foundations for diversification of the economy. It is my hope that this will help address the peace, development and humanitarian nexus. 

21.   Further, I urge the RTGoNU to move forward with the legislation and provision of funding for the enterprise development funds, which will serve to provide the necessary boost to help establish women and youth businesses; thus, serving to empower a key segment of the South Sudanese population. 

22.   Under Chapter 5, the Technical Committee established to spearhead public consultations on the establishment of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH), undertook public consultations in most parts of the country, with the exception of inaccessible areas where conflict is ongoing, such as Nimule. Their compiled report will assist the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to draft the CTRH legislation.

23.   It is concerning that there has been no progress towards the establishment of the other two transitional justice mechanisms i.e., the Hybrid Court for South Sudan and the Compensation and Reparations Authority. I therefore appeal to the RTGoNU to consider taking steps towards the establishment of these two critical Transitional Justice institutions.

24.   Under Chapter 6 on the making of the permanent constitution, there has been commendable progress with the recent passing of the Constitution Making Process Bill 2022, which now awaits assent by the President to become law. Once enacted, the important process of constitution-making will begin in earnest, with the reconstitution of the National Constitution Review Commission, establishment of the Constitution Drafting Committee, and the Preparatory Sub-Committee for the convening of the National Constitutional Conference. I urge the parties and designated stakeholder groups to initiate the process of identifying their nominees to these various mechanisms to ensure their timely establishment.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

25.   As you may already be aware, the US Government recently suspended its financial support to RJMEC and CTSAMVM, a move which will impact our operational capacity. We thank and appreciate the US government for its invaluable support to RJMEC and CTSAMVM over the years, and we will continue to engage with the US Government to reconsider its decision.

26.   Pursuant to our mandate as RJMEC, I undertook a series of regional and diplomatic engagements to brief the region and international community on the status of the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement and to solicit their support to the peace process. I attended the 37th Assembly of IGAD Heads of State and Government held in Nairobi, which discussed regional issues, including the peace process in South Sudan. I also briefed the AU Peace and Security Council; and separately met with the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, over the AU support to the peace process in South Sudan. 

27.   On 12th July 2022, I briefed a group of 13 Diplomats accredited to the Republic of South Sudan based in Addis Ababa on the ongoing peace process, and the mandates of RJMEC and CTSAMVM, including their centrality in the monitoring and oversight of the R-ARCSS. 

28.   Following these engagements, I can assure you, that the peace process in this country is on the minds and agenda of the regional and international community. They all appreciate the important contribution of RJMEC and CTSAMVM, and the need for the RTGoNU to come up with a roadmap that will ensure implementation of the remaining tasks; in order to facilitate peaceful, free, fair and credible elections at the end of the transition period.  

29.   In conclusion, I would like to make the following recommendations: 

a.   urge the RTGoNU to fast-track the process for the consideration and adoption of the agreed final roadmap.

b.   urge the RTGoNU to urgently set the date for the graduation and redeployment of the unified forces and the commencement of phase 2 and the DDR process.

c.   urge the RTGoNU to seriously address the increasing incidences of community-based violence across the country.

d.  urge the RTGoNU to urgently institute mechanisms for fast-tracking procedures for the import and customs clearance of relief materials and visa renewal processes for humanitarian workers to improve access to those in dire need.

e.   appeal to all partners and friends of South Sudan to continue supporting RJMEC and CTSAMVM and the full implementation of the R-ARCSS; and

f.    appeal to RTGoNU to allocate adequate funding for the implementation of the Agreement including to the nationals within the mechanisms, service delivery, livelihoods and constitution-making process in the 2022/23 budget.

30.   In conclusion, at this critical phase of the implementation of the peace agreement, I appeal to all of you as members of RJMEC to be cognizant of our collective mandate, as monitors and evaluators. Let us seize this unique opportunity and proactively engage with the RTGoNU, propose remedial measures to overcome the challenges to the peace process, and facilitate progress.

I wish you fruitful deliberations. 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.   It is my honour, as the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) to address this Council today. 

2.   As the oversight body of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, we recently published a very detailed evaluation report on the status of the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement from September 2018 to date, a copy of which, will be shared with your excellencies electronically. 

3.   I will therefore only highlight the key issues for your attention and deliberations today.

4.   Overall, there has been commendable progress since the Revitalized Peace Agreement was signed, including the cessation of violence across the country amongst the signatories to the Agreement; continued holding of the permanent ceasefire; the establishment and reconstitution of all institutions/mechanisms of the Agreement; incorporation of the Revilatised Agreement into the Transitional Constitution, as amended; review and amendments of all security related laws, Political Parties Act, Audit Chambers and Public Finance Management and Accountability Bills, some of which have already been enacted by the reconstituted Parliament. Equally important is the unification of the command structure of the armed forces and the commencement of transitional justice and permanent constitution-making processes, amongst others.

5.   Under the Agreement, the Transitional Period should be marked with a democratic election. However, with barely seven months to the end of the Transitional Period (February 2023), a number of critical Agreement tasks remain unimplemented. Some of the key elections related tasks, which are still pending include:

a.     Reconstitution of the Political Parties Council;

b.     Amendment of the National Elections Act, 2012 and reconstitution of a competent and impartial National Elections Commission (NEC) to conduct elections;

c.      Addressing of the challenges of reconstruction, repatriation, resettlement, rehabilitation and reintegration of IDPs and returnees;

d.     Unification of forces to prepare for elections;

e.      Completion of the permanent constitution-making to guide the conduct of elections; and 

f.        Preparation for the holding of free, fair and credible elections.

6.   Without these tasks implemented, it will be difficult to conduct a credible election.

Your Excellency,

2.   There are several recurring challenges facing the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, namely: 

a.         lack of sufficient resources (financial and material) needed for the implementation of the Agreement; 

b.         insufficient political will and commitment of some actors; 

c.         trust deficit amongst the Parties; 

d.         capacity gaps; and

e.         growing sub-national violence. 

3.   The aforementioned challenges and delays not only undermine confidence in the peace process and ferment defections, but have also caused growing anxiety and frustrations amongst the South Sudanese population and international partners supporting the peace process. 

4.   As a result, we are witnessing increasing sub-national violence in the countryside, as well as withdrawal of some key actors and partners to the peace process. Very recently, the US Government withdrew its support to RJMEC and CTSAMVM, key IGAD mandated oversight and verification institutions, whose functions and effectiveness, are indispensable to the implementation of the Peace Agreement. Without an effective oversight mechanism, we risk the collapse of the Agreement, and reversing the gains made under the Agreement thus far. 

Your Excellency,

5.     In conclusion, I recommend the following to this Council: 

a.      urge the RTGoNU to develop a clear roadmap and strategy to implement critical outstanding requirements of the Revitalised Peace Agreement towards elections;

b.         support the RTGoNU efforts in mobilising resources from the region, and the international community to support the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement and to convene the Pledging Conference for South Sudan as provided for under Chapter 3 of the Agreement;

c.         engage the leadership of the RTGoNU to bridge the trust deficit, build confidence and demonstrate political will and commitment;

d.         urge the RTGoNU to address sub-national violence by urgently graduating and redeploying the unified forces;

e.         appeal to the US Government to reconsider its decision to halt support to RJMEC and CTSAMVM;

f.            Further appeal to all partners and friends of South Sudan to support RJMEC and CTSAMVM and the full implementation of the R-ARCSS, and 

g.         Lastly, appeal to the AU Commission to consider supporting RJMEC and CTSAMVM to ensure the effective discharge of their mandate.

I Thank You. 

STATEMENT BY H.E. MAJ GEN CHARLES TAI GITUAI (RTD) INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC TO THE 22ND RJMEC MONTHLY MEETING Thursday, 24 March 2022, Juba, South Sudan

Honourable Ministers,

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

1. I welcome you all to our monthly meeting. Despite the relatively short time left available in the Transitional Period, and RJMEC’s repeated appeals, I note no substantial progress in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) since our last meeting. However, in all RJMEC’s engagements, both in South Sudan and regionally, we continue to call for the RTGoNU to demonstrate greater political will to increase the pace of implementation at this critical time.

2. In that regard, I have undertaken internal, regional and international consultations and briefings to encourage greater support for the implementation of the R-ARCSS since our last plenary. I held bilateral meetings with H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit and the other members of the RTGoNU Presidency, and several national ministers. I also met the President of the Republic of Djibouti, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Djibouti, the Executive Secretary of IGAD and the Chairpersonof the African Union Commission. Similarly, I briefed the Peace and Security Council of the African Union and the United Nations

Security Council.

3. During my regional engagements, I appealed to the Regional Guarantors to consider holding an urgent meeting in Juba and engage with the RTGoNU leadership. The focus would be to assess the status of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, as guarantors, to provide the necessary impetus for implementation of the Agreement and to help overcome the challenges facing progress.

4. At this point I will provide status updates on the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement since our last monthly meeting, outstanding tasks, challenges requiring remedial action, and conclude with recommendations.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

5. Since our last meeting in February, there has been minimal progress towards implementation of the provisions of the governance chapter of the R-ARCSS. Reportedly, two additional

State Legislative Assemblies have recently been sworn in. I encourage the States which are yet to operationalise their Legislative Assemblies to do so in order to enable them embark on

their functions.

6. I note recent press reports that the Reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) ratified the budget for the Financial Year 2021 / 2022. As a result, it is my expectation that

they will now give their full attention to the bills that are awaiting enactment – namely the six security bills, the Constitution-Making Bill, and the Political Parties Bill, all of which are essential to the ongoing implementation of the R-ARCSS.

7. On the reconvening of the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC), I welcome the recent signing of an agreement between the IGAD Office of the Special Envoy for South Sudan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to support the activities of the NCAC. I therefore urge the resumption of the NCAC’s work with the expectation that they will prioritise the review of the election laws and other relevant legislations specifically assigned to them.

8. On Chapter 2, the Permanent Ceasefire and the Transitional Security Arrangements, I am concerned by the reports of an increasing number of clashes taking place between SPLA-IO forces and defectors to the SSPDF in Upper Nile and Unity States, including in training centres. We have tasked CTSAMVM to further investigate these clashes. I would like to stress that each training centre is a symbol of the unity which is being forged through creating a unified force, and any threat to this is unacceptable. Such divisive activities complicate the unification process, lower morale and breed mistrust among troops. A unified force depends on cohesiveness for its ability to function as a professional force.

9. As per the Agreement, the Parties are responsible for the command and control of their forces and affiliates. As a result, Party commanders starting from the lowest level, are charged with the

responsibility to hold their troops accountable for any violations, as well as devising corrective and preventive measures where necessary. On 7 February 2022, after receiving violation reports

from the CTSAMVM Chairperson, I wrote letters to the SSPDF and the SPLA-IO Chiefs of Defence Forces, urging them to take action for the violations committed by their respective forces as highlighted in the CTSAMVM reports. I am awaiting responses from them on actions being taken in respect of my request for accountability.

10. In regard to the Transitional Security Arrangements and in particular, the screening, training and redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces for Phase One, this matter, including the unified command and ratio of forces, is being dealt with at the IGAD level with RTGoNU. I continue to raise concerns that the DDR process still remains without the necessary support and funds from the RTGoNU. Proper attention to DDR could form part of the solution to the impasse on the force ratios and the excess of senior ranks.

11. With just one year left of the Transitional Period, it is very concerning to continue receiving reports of increased insecurity among some communities, including revenge attacks and criminality in various parts of the country. I would like to reiterate that this state of affairs is exacerbated by the delayed implementation of the Transitional Security Arrangements as set out in the R-ARCSS, growing military defections from one signatory party to another and poorly-resourced structures of governance and security at the State and local levels. I would like to remind all of us that, it is the responsibility of the RTGoNU, as per article 1.2.2 of the R-ARCSS, to restore permanent and sustainable peace, security, and stability in South Sudan.

12. The SPLM/A-IO earlier this week suspended their participation in R-ARCSS Security Mechanisms, and RJMEC meetings. RJMEC has taken note of all the concerns raised by the SPLM/A-IO. It is encouraging to note that SPLM/A-IO has reiterated its continuous commitment to the full implementation of the R-ARCSS and is willing to be available to discuss these issues with RJMEC. I would however like to stress that the Joint Defence Board is a key mechanism composed of the Chiefs of Defence Forces of the three Parties, responsible to their respective forces and as such, its role is imperative in addressing security-related issues. Therefore addressing the specific concerns that the SPLM/A-IO has raised, requires that these Security Mechanisms be fully composed of representatives from all the Parties, which means full participation of the SPLM/A-IO. In this regard, I urge that the SPLM/A-IO reverses the suspension of its participation in the security mechanisms in order to allow redress of the matters raised. I have also invited the concerned Parties to a meeting tomorrow 25 March 2022, to discuss these issues. I would like to emphasise that the full engagement of all the Parties and inclusive dialogue within the framework of the R-ARCSS is the only way of resolving disagreements

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

13. Regarding humanitarian assistance and reconstruction, the humanitarian situation in South Sudan continues to deteriorate because of subnational conflicts, widespread flooding, deepening food insecurity, high food prices, and lack of access to basic services. I would like to underscore that violence at the subnational level also increases the number of displaced people, strains the already scarce humanitarian support, and further impacts negatively on humanitarian access. I appeal to the RTGoNU to address the roots causes of violence at the subnational level, provide humanitarian support and services, and ensure the protection of civilians.

14. Whereas voluntary returns continue to be reported, especially from Uganda, instability and flooding compound internal and cross border displacement of communities, notably in Eastern and Central Equatoria. At least 90,000 returnees are reportedly displaced within the country, unable to reach their homes. All returnees and IDPs should be enabled to go home in safety and dignity, as per article 3.1.1.5.

15. On resource, economic and financial management, it is commendable that the RToGNU has operationalised the South Sudan Pension Fund (SSPF) that was launched in 2019 in accordance with the South Sudan Pension Fund Act 2012. I would like to encourage the RTGoNU to extend this social protection system to cover a wider cross-section of society, including the organised forces.

16. The reviewed Bank of South Sudan Act 2010 needs to be enacted in order to encourage greater accountability and transparency in the financial sector, and for the Bank of South Sudan to perform other functions conferred upon it by law. I appeal to the RTGoNU to forward this bill to the Transitional National Legislative Assembly for enactment to allow the Bank of South Sudan to implement them outstanding provisions in this chapter.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

17. Regarding transitional justice, I am informed that preparations are well advanced for the national consultations to help shape the legislation that establishes the Commission for Truth,

Reconciliation and Healing, and that the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs expects to begin them next week. I would like to underscore that involving the people of South Sudan in the development of transitional justice mechanisms is of great importance.

18. On the Hybrid Court for South Sudan, last week I had the opportunity to meet the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson to discuss the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement, including the establishment of the Hybrid Court. My recommendation was for the AUC to engage the RTGoNU with a view to encouraging them to give full attention to transitional justice.

19. With regard to the Permanent Constitution-making process, let me again remind all of us that the ordinary citizens of the Republic of South Sudan stand to benefit greatly from a people-led and people owned permanent constitution-making process. The permanent constitution is essential to guide the way to elections. Furthermore, the Preamble of the Revitalized Peace Agreement is clear that the “Parties are determined to compensate the people of South Sudan by recommitting themselves to peace and constitutionalism.” I  therefore urge the Transitional National Legislature to enact the Constitution-Making Process Bill to kick start this important process without any further delay.

20. Now for a word on the RJMEC Working Committees. These are an important part of RJMEC’s monitoring and evaluation functions, and they work well when attended properly. However, the persistent absence of some members frustrates the work of these committees, and therefore it lowers their effectiveness at a time when the ongoing implementation of the R-ARCSS needs support from all sides. I would like to reiterate my previous calls for their members to make greater efforts to attend these very important meetings.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

21. I would like to conclude with the following recommendations:  a. urge the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature to expedite the enactment of the pending security, political parties

and constitution-making bills;

b. urge the operationalisation of all the remaining State Legislatures;

c. call upon the RTGoNU to urgently restore peace and security in the regions affected by conflict and violence;

d. urge the armed Signatory Parties to exercise full command and control of their forces, and to hold their troops accountable for any violations, as well as devising corrective and preventive measures where necessary;

e. urge the RTGoNU to complete the Transitional Security Arrangements, including resolving the issues of unified command and force ratios, and redeployment of unified forces, as well as implement DDR programmes as part of the unification process;

f. urge the RTGoNU to extend the South Sudan Pension Fund across a wider cross-section of society, including the organised forces; and g. urge the RTGoNU to ensure that the public consultations surrounding the establishment of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing are comprehensive and meaningful and commence without further delay.

22. Lastly, I would like to remind the Parties that there is less than one year before the end of the Transitional Period, which should conclude with the holding of elections. Therefore, the roadmap and strategy to be developed by the RTGoNU should, among other things, set out the tasks most critical for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections, given the dwindling time left to implement the Peace Agreement. In doing so, I remind all Parties once again of their commitment, expressed in the Preamble of the Agreement, “to lay the foundation for a united, peaceful and prosperous society based on justice, equality, respect for human rights and the rule of law.”

I encourage all of you to participate in our debates this morning to the fullest at this critical time. I wish you fruitful deliberations.

I Thank You.

STATEMENT BY H.E. MAJ. GEN. CHARLES TAI GITUAI (RTD) INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC ON THE STATUS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE REVITALISED AGREEMENT ON THE RESOLUTION OF THE CONFLICT IN THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN TO THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL, 7 MARCH, 2022, JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN

-       President of the UN Security Council,

-       Distinguished Members of the Council,

-       Excellencies,

-       Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Mr. President

1.   I thank you for the opportunity to brief the Security Council of the United Nations for my first time as Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC). I would like to offer my congratulations to the United Arab Emirates for assuming the Presidency of the UN Security Council this month, March 2022, and I thank them for inviting RJMEC to brief the Council this morning. We wish them the best in their Presidency. 

2.   RJMEC is the official oversight body mandated to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), which was mediated by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). 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.

3.   RJMEC is obligated under Article 7.9 of the R-ARCSS to submit quarterly status reports, followed by detailed briefings to this Council, and the following:

-       the Revitalised Unity Government Council of Ministers;

-       the Transitional National Legislative Assembly; 

-       the Chairperson of the IGAD Assembly of Heads of State and Government; 

-       the Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers; 

-       the Chairperson of the African Union Commission; 

-       the Peace and Security Council of the African Union; and 

-       the Secretary General of the United Nations.

Since the Revitalised Peace Agreement was signed in September 2018, RJMEC has submitted 13 status of implementation reports. 

4.   Mr. President, although there has been some progress in the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, the end of the Transitional Period in February 2023 is fast approaching, and yet several critical tasks of the Agreement remain unimplemented.

5.   Therefore, my briefing to this august Council will focus on the key milestones achieved in the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement to date, critical pending tasks, and requirements for the conduct of elections at the end of the Transitional Period as per the Agreement. I will also highlight recurring challenges and conclude with recommendations. 

Mr. President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

6.   As you may recall, in July 2016 armed conflict broke out in South Sudan within one year of signing of the 2015 Peace Agreement, and barely two months after the first coalition government was formed. By contrast, the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement has entered its fourth year and the Revitalised Unity Government marked its second anniversary last month, February 2022, an indication of comparative success. 

7.   Since its signing, the Revitalised Peace Agreement has contributed significantly to the following:

a)            cessation of violence across the country amongst the signatories to the Agreement and continued holding of the permanent ceasefire;

b)            the establishment and reconstitution of all Pre-Transitional institutions and implementation mechanisms of the Agreement;

c)             establishment of the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity and state level government;

d)            reconstitution of the Transitional National Legislature and the state assemblies;

e)            incorporation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement into the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan (TCRSS, 2011), as amended;

f)              the review and amendments of all security related laws by the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC), which have been submitted to the Revitalised Unity Government, awaiting enactment;

g)            cantonment and screening, selection and training of Phase 1 of the Necessary Unified Forces, with approximately 50,000 trainees awaiting graduation and redeployment;

h)            opening of humanitarian corridors which has facilitated gradual voluntary return of some refugees and IDPs;

i)              stabilisation of the exchange rate and progress in implementing some economic reforms by the Revitalised Unity Government; and

j)              development of a roadmap for implementing the requirements of Transitional Justice and the making of the Permanent Constitution.

8.   The above progress notwithstanding, some critical tasks of the Agreement remain pending. Most notably, they include the following:  

a.     establishment of the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee mandated to study and recommend appropriate judicial reforms to the Revitalised Unity Government; 

b.     ratification of eight bills by the Transitional National Legislature (TNL), namely six security bills, the Constitution Making Bill, and the Political Parties Bill;

c.      reconstitution of the Political Parties Council, and amendment of the National Elections Act, 2012, and reconstitution of a competent and impartial National Elections Commission (NEC);

d.     the unification of forces and their redeployment; 

e.      implementing Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration programmes;

f.       addressing the challenges of reconstruction, repatriation, resettlement, rehabilitation and reintegration of IDPs and returnees;

g.     establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund (SRF) and Board and the convening of a South Sudan Pledging Conference to support its humanitarian and reconstruction efforts;

h.     reforming the Public Financial Management institutions, especially the National Audit Chamber and the Anti-Corruption Commission to enhance transparency and accountability;

i.       establishment of the three Transitional Justice mechanisms, namely the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing, the Hybrid Court for South Sudan, and the Compensation and Reparation Authority; and

j.       Completion of the permanent constitution making process to guide the conduct of elections.

9.   In RJMEC’s assessment, the tasks most critical for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections under the Revitalised Peace Agreement are the unification of forces and their redeployment, enactment of the permanent constitution, review of political parties and electoral related laws, and reconstitution of the Political Parties Council and the National Elections Commission. 

10.         I wish to underscore the importance of a people-led and people-owned Permanent Constitution, which will be the cornerstone of the state of South Sudan, preparing the way for a democratic transition through free, fair and credible elections. 

Mr. President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, 

11.  Overall, progress in implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement has generally been very slow from the beginning, and there are several recurring challenges facing it. The challenges include lack of sufficient resources (both financial and material) needed for the implementation of the Agreement; insufficient political will and commitment of some actors; trust deficit amongst the Parties; capacity gaps; subnational violence and activities of the holdout groups; military defections from one signatory party to another; flooding; and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

12.  Given the challenges facing implementation, the critical tasks pending, and the Agreement timeline nearing expiry, RJMEC has tasked the Revitalised Unity Government to review the status of the implementation of the Agreement and develop a clear roadmap and strategy within the framework of the Revitalised Peace Agreement on how to implement the outstanding critical tasks as the end of the Transitional Period approaches. The roadmap should be consensus-based, with verifiable benchmarks and timelines.

Mr President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, 

13.  I therefore conclude with the following recommendations to this Council: 

a)   actively engage the Revitalised Unity Government to ensure implementation of the critical outstanding tasks, especially the unification of forces and the permanent constitution making process, both tasks fundamental to the holding of free, fair and credible elections;

b)   encourage the Revitalised Unity Government to reconcile their inter-party differences and to work collegially in the best interests of South Sudan and its people;

c)    assist the Revitalised Unity Government’s efforts in mobilising resources from the international community to enhance implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement;

d)   support the Revitalised Unity Government to establish the Special Reconstruction Fund, and convene a South Sudan Pledging Conference to provide support to conflict-affected states and communities, as provided for in the Agreement; and

e)   continue supporting the full implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement and the conduct of free, fair and credible elections.

14.  Finally, Mr President, I would like to appeal to the Council to remain seized of the peace process in South Sudan, to encourage you to consider visiting the country again, and to continue supporting RJMEC in its mandate, including providing regular briefings to the Council on the status of the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan. 

I Thank You.

STATEMENT BY H.E. MAJ GEN CHARLES TAI GITUAI (RTD) INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC TO THE 21ST RJMEC MONTHLY MEETING 

THURSDAY, 10 FEBRUARY 2022

JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN

Honourable Ministers, 

Excellencies, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

1.   This being our first meeting for the new year 2022, allow me to wish you all a belated Happy New Year. This Plenary meeting falls just under two weeks before we reach the point marking two years since the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) was formed. There is now just 12 months left of the Transitional Period, and elections are due to take place 60 days before it ends, and yet key unimplemented tasks are outstanding, including:

i)          Several important pieces of legislation are not ratified and state governments are not fully functioning;

ii)          the forces are not unified;

iii)         the Special Reconstruction Fund is not established, and millions of South Sudanese remain in refugee camps outside the country or in IDP camps;

iv)          public financial management reforms remain largely undone;

v)            the transitional justice mechanisms are not established; and

vi)          beyond the drafting of its legislation, the constitution-making process is not progressing as expected.   

2.   With much to be done in a short timeframe, it is important that the RTGoNU briefs this meeting on the practical remedial measures with which it intends to implement these, and other key tasks required by the R-ARCSS within the remaining timeframe. Today therefore, I will highlight some of the most recent progress on the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement since our last monthly meeting, outstanding tasks, challenges requiring remedial action, and conclude with recommendations.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

3.   Regarding governance, since our last meeting, the Reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) has enacted the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 8, which therefore aligns the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan 2011, (as amended) to the R-ARCSS. Also enacted is the Amendment Bill No. 9 which covers amendments made to some of the security bills. These bills have since been signed into law by H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan.

4.   I am informed that the State Legislative Assemblies have been reconstituted in all the ten states, and it is encouraging that the Lakes State and Central Equatoria have sworn-in their members. I urge that the inauguration of the remaining State Legislative Assemblies be expedited so that they can discharge their oversight and legislative functions.   

5.   There are other outstanding tasks in governance, including the restructuring and reconstitution of the Commissions and Institutions at the national level in line with article 1.19 of the R-ARCSS, and the establishment of the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC). On the JRC, I have been informed that IGAD has completed the process of selection of its Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson and is awaiting its operationalisation. 

6.   In regard to the Transitional Security Arrangements (TSA), and in particular, the screening, training and redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces for Phase One, it is disappointing that progress remains very slow.  Since my last report, I have been informed that the three JDB Implementation Committees have undertaken their screening and selection tasks in the Training Centres. I look forward to receiving an update from the JDB at this meeting.

7.   I wish to restate my concern that DDR remains without the necessary support and funds from the RTGoNU. The DDR process is integral to the successful implementation of the Transitional Security Arrangements, and I urge the RTGoNU to ensure that the DDR Commission, an essential component of the TSAs, receives all the support it needs as a matter of urgency. That said, I welcome the Joint RTGoNU and ‘Friends of South Sudan’ Community Violence Reduction/DDR pilot initiative which is currently underway to complement the DDR Commission Strategy. I look forward to hearing more from the DDR Commission today.

8.   I received four verified violation reports from CTSAMVM this month which include:  i) the attack, rape and abduction of civilians in August 2021 attributed to NAS; ii) the killing and detention of civilians during clashes between SSPDF and NAS forces in September 2021; iii) forced recruitment of civilians by the SPLA/IO between October and December 2021; and iv) an attack on an SSPDF Barracks by NAS forces in November 2021. Consequently, I have since written to the Chiefs of Defence Forces of SSPDF, the SPLA-IO, and NAS to remind them of their responsibilities and to urge them to take action against perpetrators.   

9.   Turning now to the recent Kit Gwang issue, we urge parties to such conflicts to observe and work within the parameters of the R-ARCSS in achieving peace. Any defections or accepting defections by armed groups is contrary to the letter and spirit of the Agreement. Delays in the implementation of the Transitional Security Arrangements is a major contributing factor in the occurrence of defections. I therefore urge the RTGoNU parties to expedite the implementation of all the Transitional Security Arrangements, especially the graduation and unification of the forces, which will serve to lessen the likelihood of defections. I would like to hear the opinions of the RJMEC members on this issue. 

10.  I am concerned about continuing community-based violence, as exemplified by the recent attacks and loss of lives in Baidit Payam, outside of Bor, Jonglei State. The resulting displacement of civilians in incidences of such violence, and the added need for and strain on the delivery of humanitarian services, is worrying. I urge the RTGoNU to undertake measures to address the cycles of violence across the country and build durable peace. Fully functioning governments at the states’ level can have a positive impact.  

11.  Similarly, I continue to receive reports of clashes in the Equatorias between NAS forces and those of the SSPDF. I urge the Parties to the Rome peace process to adhere to their commitments to the Rome Resolution and Declaration, and the resumption of talks under the auspices of the Community of Sant’Egidio should provide an inclusive opportunity to address the insecurity in the Equatorias.

12.  On Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV), while I note the efforts of the SSPDF and JDB to combat SGBV, I am concerned that there are still SGBV cases committed by some elements of the various forces being reported by CTSAMVM. I call upon the JDB to ensure accountability for violations committed by the forces. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

13.  On the humanitarian situation, there are many outstanding challenges. The living conditions of flood-affected people in displacement sites remain dire and are likely to further deteriorate with the onset of seasonal rains. There are many hundreds of thousands of flood-affected people requiring humanitarian assistance. In terms of food security, reports from the FAO / WFP indicate that between February to May 2022, the magnitude and severity of already very high levels of acute food insecurity is likely to worsen. 

14.  Last year, an estimated 270,000 refugees were reported to have voluntarily returned to South Sudan, 28,440 of these having returned in December 2021 alone.  I commend UNHCR and the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission for their efforts to enable the movement of voluntary returnees. I urge the RTGoNU to expedite the establishment and operationalisation of mechanisms such as the State and National Level Task Forces on Solutions and local governance structures to enable the smooth management of voluntary returns.

15.  On Resource, Economic and Financial Management, I would like to commend the RTGoNU and its partners for efforts in catalysing the development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises through the newly lunched Enterprise Development project. In the spirit of the Agreement, South Sudan’s private sector and youth economic empowerment can only be achieved through improved capacity in entrepreneurship and access to finance

16.  Equally important, there is need to improve transparency and accountability in the management of public resources to ensure sustainable peace and development in South Sudan. In particular, there is great need for more emphasis on the management of the natural resources. In this regard, I urge the RTGoNU to finalise the review of the National Land Policy and legislate the reviewed 2008 Land Act. Considering the influx of returnees into the country and increased economic activity in the agriculture sector, it is important to address the challenges posed by land grabbing and other malpractices involving land. 

17.  Furthermore, there is need for the RTGoNU to develop a comprehensive policy for the use and management of Nile and other water resources, as per article 4.8.3 of the R-ARCSS, in order to attract increased investment in this sector. 

18.  On transitional justice, the Technical Committee on the CTRH establishment has completed its plans towards undertaking public consultations. The RTGoNU has committed SSP 25 million (approximately $60,000) to support this process, and the Ministry has indicated that additional support from partners for this process could be forthcoming. I urge the Ministry to now proceed quickly and commence the public consultations process.

19.   On the establishment of the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS), no progress has been observed here since our last meeting. On the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA), I am informed that the Minister of Justice is working with partners to obtain technical assistance in the area of compensation and reparation. Such support will go a long way in informing its understanding on how to draft appropriate CRA legislation.

20.  I wish to commend the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan and partners for the recent conference convened between the 13 and 15 of December 2021 to enable stakeholders to work towards a shared vision for a holistic approach to transitional justice in South Sudan.

21. Lastly, on the permanent constitution-making process, there is no significant progress to report. The Constitution Making Process Bill 2021 is pending ratification by the Reconstituted TNLA. I urge the leadership of the Reconstituted TNLA to immediately present this bill for consideration and enactment, alongside the budget.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

22.   As we move towards the final 12 months of the Transitional Period, I would like to help focus minds and close my statement with the following recommendations:

a)   urge the reconstituted TNLA to expedite the enactment of the pending security, political parties and constitution making bills;

b)   urge the operationalisation of all the State Legislatures;

c)    urge the RTGoNU to make financial resources available for the completion of the Transitional Security Arrangements, including redeployment of unified forces, as well as for DDR programmes;

d)   urge the RTGoNU to work closely with international partners to establish the Board of the Special Reconstruction Fund without further delay, in line also with the recent AU PSC meeting resolutions. This is especially important considering the humanitarian and reconstruction challenges facing the country, including the continued need for aid for flood-affected communities;

e)   urge the RTGoNU and the African Union Commission to push forward with establishment of the Hybrid Court for South Sudan, and urge the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to commence the public consultations on the CTRH; and

f)     urge the parties and stakeholders to commence preparations for their nominations of representatives to the different constitution-making institutions and mechanisms. 

23.        At this crucial stage of implementation, and with such a comparatively short time left in the Transitional Period, your insights on the challenges facing South Sudan are vital. I encourage you all to consider carefully this status of implementation report, and suggest practical remedial measures that can unlock progress. It is my expectation that RTGoNU will present to this meeting a clear roadmap on the way forward in regard to the implementation of the remaining tasks in the Agreement. Equally your proposals in this meeting will help guide the discussions and decisions of the RTGoNU.

24.        I wish you fruitful deliberations. 

I thank You.  

HonourableMinisters, 

Excellencies,

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

1.  I welcome you all to the 20thmeeting of the RJMEC, which is our last Plenary meeting for this year. This time of the year is very critical as it provides a moment of reflection on what we have been able to achieve, collectively, in the pursuit of peace and stability in the Republic of South Sudan.

2.  We started the year 2021 with great optimism, emerging from the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic, and it was our hope that 2021 would see much better progress in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). There is no doubt that the RTGoNU had a much better opportunity in 2021 to take forward the implementation of the Peace Agreement than it had in its inaugural year 2020.

3.  Some milestones were achieved this year for which the institutions and mechanisms of the Agreement, Parties and the RTGoNU should be commended. I will highlight only a few, namely:
4.   Under Chapter 1 on Governance Arrangements, the following tasks were completed:

a. Completion of the appointment of State Governors with the appointment of Governor of Upper Nile State;

b. Completion of reconstitution of States’ Governments with appointment of States Executive for all the ten states;

c. State Ministers, Advisors, Independent Commissioners and County Commissionersfor all the ten States have been appointed; 

d. Completion of reconstitution of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) and Council of States; and

e. Appointment of the States Legislature in nine of the ten states.

Under Chapter 2, on the Transitional Security Arrangments

f.  The Permanent Ceasefire has held between the signatories to the Revitalised Peace Agreement since its signing;

g.  CTSAMVM continued delivering its monitoring, verification and reporting mandate; and

h.Some components of the 83,000 Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) are in training centres and are awaiting redeployment.  

Under Chapter 3, on Humanitarian Affairs

i.  Some humanitarian corridors are opened, some IDPs and refugees are gradually returning, access impediments have generally reduced, and

j.  the Disaster Risk Management policy has been submitted to the Council of Ministers for Approval, and the National Strategy on finding Durable solutions for IDPs, Refugees and Returnees has been validated.

Under Chapter 4 on resource, economic and financial managment

k.  An audit of the previous allocation and transfer of the 2% and 3% of total revenues made to oil producing States and communities respectively since 2011 was conducted and its findings (of misappropriation of most of the funds) was discussed by the Council of States and recommendations made to the RTGoNU; and 

l.  The RTGoNU has identified all loans collateralised against oil, current employment in the oil sector has been reviewed, and a new human resources policy has been developed to ensure equity in the sector, thereby improving the process of accountability and management of the extractive industries. 

Under Chapter 5 on Transitional Justice

m.     A roadmap has been developed and endorsed by the RTGoNU Council of Ministers mandating the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to proceed with the full implementation of Chapter 5; a Task Force has been established within the Ministry to coordinate its implementation; and

n.A Technical Committee has been established to undertake nationwide public consultations towards the establishment of the Commission for Truth, Healing and Reconciliation.

Under Chapter 6 on the Permanent Constitution-Making Process

o. the Permanent Constitution-making process has been initiated, and a workshop for the Parties and Stakeholders was successfully convened by RJMEC where details for the constitution-making process were agreed; and 

p. A Constitution Process Bill drafted by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs was endorsed by the Council of Ministers and is awaiting enactment by the Reconstituted TNLA.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

5.  I welcome the progress I have just highlighted,however, the delayed unification of forces and their redeployment has contributed to growing frustrations. Furthermore, defections of senior military officials, mainly from the SPLA-IO to the SSPDF, erode trust amongst the two parties and public confidence in the peace process. Also, progress is impeded by the delayed enactment of the six amended security related legislations, and the lapse of the National Constitutional Amendment Committee mandate before completion of critical tasks, including amendment of the election law.

6.  We are now past the mid-way mark of the timeline of the Transitional Period. The Parties are far behind schedule in implementation of key tasks. As we close the year 2021 therefore, we need clarity from the RTGoNU on its plan for the implementation of the outstanding tasks in the coming 14 months. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

7.  Today therefore, I will only highlight some of the most recent progress on the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement since our last monthly meeting, highlight key developments, outstanding tasks, challenges requiring remedial action, and conclude with recommendations.  

8.   Firstly, governance. Since our last meeting, there has been some progress. The State Legislative Assemblies have been reconstituted in nine out of ten states, with the exception of Western Bahr el Ghazal. This is a welcome development and a positive step towards completion of establishment of the structures of governance at the subnational level. I urge that the swearing in of the newly appointed members of the State Legislative Assemblies be conducted to ensure that they embark on their legislative and oversight functions in support of implementation of the R-ARCSS. 

9.   In spite of the recent developments, there are other outstanding tasks in governance, including establishment of the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC), and the restructuring and reconstitution of the Commissions and Institutions at the national level. Regarding the Judicial Reform Committee, however, all the parties have submitted their lists of nominees, and I understand that IGAD has also completed the process of selection of their nominees to chair and deputise the Committee and is in the process of finalising their contracts. I reiterate my appeal for the process of establishment of the JRC to be concluded so as to trigger the necessary judicial reforms process in South Sudan as provided for in the R-ARCSS.

10.  In terms of the bills approved by the Council of Ministers awaiting ratification by the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA), I am informed that the Presidency has endorsed the proposed amendment to the National Security Services (NSS) Bill. The reconstituted TNLA is still to ratify all the amended security bills, the Constitutional Amendment Bills No. 8 and 9 and the Constitution Process Bill 2021.

11. I welcome the recently concluded 5thGovernors’ Forum which was convened in Juba in the third week of November 2021 for the Governors and Chief Administrators of the ten States and the three Administrative Areas. I further welcome the resolutions of the Forum, some of which relate to the process of devolving powers and resources to States and Counties as per the R-ARCSS. Additionally, the Forum resolved that each State is to review its State constitution in order to conform to the Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan 2011 as amended and the R-ARCSS. I encourage all the concerned authorities to implement these resolutions.

12.  In reference to security and the implementation of the Transitional Security Arrangements, it is disappointing to note that the redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) remains stalled. It is now over two months since the Presidency directed the deployment of three assessment teams to Training Centres in preparation for the graduation of Phase 1 of the NUF. I understand that these teams have not yet left Juba due to the lack of funding and logistical support. It is disheartening to see that this directive of the Presidency has not been carried out. I would like to hear from the RTGoNU, the way forward on this issue. 

13.  I am also disappointed to report that the critical issues of Unified Command Structure and Force ratios have not yet been resolved, undermining the whole Transitional Security Arrangements process. The DDR Commission also remains unfunded and neglected despite DDR being essential to the unification process. I would like to request the NTC to provide an update on the funding situation of the Security Mechanisms.  

14.  I continue to receive reports from CTSAMVM that in the Cantonment Sites and Training Centres, living conditions are dire and that the occupants continue to abandon the sites in search of food and other essentials for survival. This situation has undermined the morale of security forces cantoned or in training and risks eroding their trust in the political leadership of the country. I appeal once again to the RTGoNU to provide food, medicines and other essential life support to Cantonment Sites and Training Centres and to expedite redeployment. It is essential to resolve these issues, which will pave the way for completion of the unification process.

15.  I understand there has been some progress in the work of the SDSR Board including the Strategic Security Assessment and the Security Policy Framework in accordance with Article 2.5.4 of the Peace Agreement which will lay the foundation for developing the Strategic Defence and Security Review.  I look forward to hearing more on this matter from the SDSR Board.

16.  Regarding the Rome process under the auspices of Community of Sant’Egidio, I welcome the decision of His Excellency, Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan, for the RTGoNU to resume talks with SSOMA. I call upon the parties to implement the Rome Resolutions, and to come to a durable settlement. 

17.  On a separate note, I am encouraged by the efforts being made by the RTGoNU to put measures in place to combat sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) in South Sudan. On 30 November, the JDB launched a Committee for the implementation of an action plan for ‘Addressing Conflict-Related Sexual Violence.’ I would like to hear more from the JDB about this matter.  

18.  Further, I would like to report the successful completion last week of a seminar facilitated by UNITAR in collaboration with RJMEC in Kigali, Rwanda under the theme ‘Post-Conflict Peacebuilding, Reconstruction and Stabilization.’ The workshop participants included high-level South Sudanese politicians and military Generals. It is expected that the knowledge gained during the workshop will be applied to expedite the implementation of the Agreement. This is the third collaborative activity this year between UNITAR and RJMEC, and we will continue to design further programmes in support of the R-ARCSS.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

19.  In regard to humanitarian affairs, UNOCHA reports that in November a further 154,000 people across the country have also been affected by flooding, bringing the total number of people facing high levels of food insecurity and poor access to basic services to over 850,000. I commend all those who have extended assistance to help the flooding situation, and I appeal for more resources required to alleviate the suffering of those affected. As I mentioned in my last statement, the scale of humanitarian need in South Sudan should focus our minds on the urgency of establishing the Special Reconstruction Fund (SRF), but no progress is reported on this.

20.  On Chapter 4, on resource, economic, and financial management, I would like to commend the Bank of South Sudan for implementing key economic reforms supported by the Staff-Monitored Programme (SMP) that have stabilised the exchange rate, contributed to a significant decline in inflation, and unified the exchange rates in the market. I expect that the RTGoNU will continue to pursue prudent public financial management and ensure resources are properly allocated and used for the benefit of the people of South Sudan.

21.  Furthermore, I would like to commend the RTGoNU for progress made in the development of the Code of Ethics and Integrity for Public Officials which is contained in the Public Service Regulation. Additionally, I commend progress made in reviewing and finalising the Public Service Master Curriculum for capacity development with the theme ‘Building Honest efficient and effective Public Service’.  We look forward to the rollout of this curriculum to inculcate the spirit of nationalism and to promote the values of honesty, integrity, and respect for public property (article 4.1.3).

22.  Regarding the access to finance by the South Sudanese people, the R-ARCSS in article 4.15 mandates the establishment of enterprise development funds, microfinance, and other social safety nets such as subsidised credit. It is worth noting that the Women’s Enterprise Development Fund Bill is being drafted and a draft Youth Enterprise Bill has been submitted to the Ministry of Justice. I urge the RTGoNU to continue the process to establish these funds, which are critical to improving the livelihoods of many vulnerable South Sudanese. 

23.  On Chapter 5, transitional justice, I am aware of the efforts to secure funding for the Technical Committee for the establishment of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH), including the recent partners’ roundtable forum convened by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. I look forward to positive outcomes to these efforts.

24.  With regards to progress on the permanent constitution making process, I am informed that the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs has now received the Cabinet resolution which endorsed the Constitution Process Bill 2021. I urge the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to forward the approved Bill to the reconstituted TNLA without delay. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

25.  As with the last monthly meeting, a critical concern remains on the Transitional Security Arrangements, especially the unification of forces, their redeployment and the DDR process. Bearing in mindthe preceding, I would like to make the following recommendations to this meeting:

a)   urge the reconstituted TNLA to fast-track its handling of all bills due to be ratified, including the Constitution-Making Process Bill 2021; 

b)   urge the RTGoNU to make financial resources available for the completion of the Transitional Security Arrangements, including redeployment of unified forces, as well as for DDR programmes;

c)    appeal to the leadership of the Parties to urgently resolve the issue of the ratio of the unified forces and the unified command structure of the Necessary Unified Forces;

d)  urge the RTGoNU to work closely with international partners to establish the Board of the Special Reconstruction Fund without further delay;

e)   urge the RTGoNU to fast-track the establishment of the the Youth and Women Enterprise Development fundsas listed in article 4.15 of the R-ARCSS; and

f)    appeal to the RTGoNU and international community to support the work of the Technical Committee on the establishment of the CTRH.

26.  In conclusion, therefore, I would like to remind us that this is the last meeting before we break for Christmas and the New Year. I hope that you will use the holidays as a period of reflection on what has been achieved in implementation of the R-ARCSS this year, and what remains to be done within the remaining period of the Agreement. I hope that we will return in the New Year with concrete plans and renewed vigour and determination to bring durable peace, stability and prosperity to the people and country of South Sudan. I wish you all a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

27.  I wish you fruitful deliberations.  

Thank you.