The Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) Ambassador Lt. Gen. Augostino Njoroge has advised military generals in S. Sudan to desist from engaging in politics, and instead serve citizens professionally. 

“I want to address you as soldiers. In my experience as a soldier, I have learned that soldiers should leave politics to politicians. I therefore, expect you as soldiers to perform your duties in a professional manner, and uninfluenced by politics,” he noted.

Ambassador Njoroge added, “Key to your demonstration of professionalism is to provide accurate facts and figures. Only the truth will enable you to develop a clear strategy and realistic plans that will enable you to accomplish your mission.”

He was addressing Chairpersons and members of all the security mechanisms responsible for the implementation of the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements of the Revitalized peace Agreement. The two-day orientation and coordination workshop got underway today in Juba, and is convened by the RJMEC. 

“It is also vital to your success that you develop trust amongst yourselves, the soldiers you command and the people you serve,” he said. 

The mechanisms are the Joint Defence Board (JDB), Joint Military Ceasefire Commission (JMCC), Joint Transitional Security Committee (JTSC) and the Strategic Defence and Security Review Board (SDSR-B). 

The workshop is aimed at creating a common understanding of the provisions of the Agreement, develop modalities for coordination among all security mechanisms and identify challenges hampering the execution of their mandate.

“I am fully aware that the permanent ceasefire is largely holding, thanks to the efforts of all of you,” he said.