RJMEC Interim Chairperson H.E. Lt. Gen. Augostino Njoroge urged the region, the international community, Partners and Friends of South Sudan to speak with one voice in support of the peace process in South Sudan.

He said as follows: 

1. Maintaining the Permanent Ceasefire is the best way of consolidating the gains made since signing the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) in September 2018, and it is a key factor which enables progress to be made. Progress delivers its own benefits to all South Sudanese in terms of confidence and trust building. 

2.   The issue of the number of states and their boundaries, which the R-ARCSS itself recognises as sensitive, is a pivotal issue that if resolved before the formation of the RTGoNU, will underpin much more achievement and cooperation in implementing the Peace Agreement. Mere postponement of implementation of any provisions is harmful in the long run. 

3.   The unification of forces must continue so that the representative national army and organised forces can be established and deployed to protect all cities, civilians, humanitarian access and the free movement of people. The Demobilisation, Disarmament and Reintegration (DDR) process is a fundamental part of that process. 

4.   Inclusivity is critical to the R-TGoNU, and all parts of it will be strengthened if a women’s participation rate of 35% is adhered to. Inclusivity is the bedrock of all aspects on implementation of the Peace Agreement.   

5.   The humanitarian situation in South Sudan remains grave, and innocent women and children continue to suffer the greatest burden resulting from the conflict. All steps must be put in place to ensure unimpeded humanitarian access. 

6.   A peaceful and inclusive environment conducive to political engagement must be sought and maintained so that Parties and stakeholders can cooperate with one another meaningfully at every level. The political space for civil society, women and youth to engage with the peace process must be created, protected, and cherished.