-      President of the UN Security Council,

-     Distinguished Members of the Council,

-     Excellencies,

-     Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Mr President,

1.    I congratulate you and the People’s Republic of China for assuming the presidency of the Security Council this month. I also would like to thank you for inviting the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) to address this esteemed Council.

2.    RJMEC is the official oversight body responsible for monitoring and evaluating the status of implementation of the 2018 Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

3.    When RJMEC last briefed this august Council in August 2024, I informed you that the pace of implementation of the R-ARCSS has been generally slow, and that key tasks, such as the making of the permanent constitution, numerous elections-related preparatory tasks, and completion of the unification of forces, were still pending.

4.    Then, the following month, September 2024, pursuant to Article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS, the Parties to the Agreement, by consensus, agreed to extend the Transitional Period from 22 February 2025 to 22 February 2027, with elections rescheduled to December 2026.

5.    In just over two weeks from now as South Sudan enters the extended period in the implementation of the R-ARCSS, the same tasks still remain pending. 

6.    My briefing today builds on the previous RJMEC reports to this Council, and will highlight our assessment of the status of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

Mr President,

7.    In terms of governance, the National Elections Commission (NEC) has completed its plans and has already opened offices in the ten states. However, financial constraints remain a hindrance to progress in the preparation for elections. Although, as previously reported, the Political Parties Council has already registered 29 political parties, the elections laws stipulate that Parties with armed forces cannot be registered until they relinquish their forces through the process of unification. This includes the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army in Opposition (SPLM/A-IO and others within the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA). This therefore underscores the need to hasten the unification of forces so that these Parties can participate in the elections. 

8.    The National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) and the Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) have both successfully delivered their mandates and concluded their work. The NCAC completed the review of 25 laws, whereas the JRC finalised its report with recommendations on appropriate judicial reforms and submitted it to the RTGoNU. The success of these institutions demonstrates that with funding availability, the Peace Agreement institutions and mechanisms can fully discharge their mandates.

9.    In terms of the Transitional Security Arrangements, the permanent ceasefire continues to hold, though recent skirmishes in Western Equatoria State between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and SPLM/A-IO over the removal of illegal checkpoints are concerning. CTSAMVM has been tasked to investigate and forward the report to RJMEC. There has been no change in the unification of forces, with approximately 55,000 of the 83,000 Phase 1 Unified Forces trained and graduated, and eight battalions (around 6,000 troops) of the army component deployed, with the remainder still not yet deployed. Persistent levels of intercommunal violence in some parts of the country continue to create disruption, and anxiety and is unsettling.

10.   Further, the Strategic Defence and Security Review Board completed its review and validation of all five strategic policy and security review frameworks, which now await presentation to the Presidency for endorsement.

11.   In regard to the Tumaini Initiative, mediation talks ongoing in Nairobi, I would like to commend H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit and H.E. President Dr William Samoei Ruto for this important Initiative. The people of South Sudan are looking forward to a positive outcome of these talks and hoping that it will bring practical and enhanced transformative approaches in addressing the root causes of conflict, and will hasten the implementation of the Peace Agreement. It is hoped that the parties to the talks will remain focused and maintain a spirit of compromise, cooperation and consensus, in order to achieve a more inclusive peace process that will lead to the country’s first ever elections and usher in a new dispensation of democratic governance underpinned by the rule of law in the post-election phase.

12.   On the humanitarian front, service delivery across the country remains very low, as resources continue to dwindle and budgets are overstretched. The Special Reconstruction Fund and its Board set out in the Revitalised Agreement are not yet established. The impact of the Sudan conflict continues to exacerbate the humanitarian situation, and has caused a huge influx of returnees and refugees in South Sudan, a number which now stands over 1 million. Widespread flooding is also persistent.

13.   On Resource, Economic and Financial Management, the Public Financial Management Oversight Committee continues to show steady commitment to economic reforms, notably in its improved monitoring of public spending of the national budget, and of revenue collection, especially non-oil revenue. Also, efforts are ongoing to reform the Bank of South Sudan. These reforms are meant to promote financial stability by legally regulating all financial institutions to foster financial intermediation. 

14.   Oil, the country’s main source of foreign earnings was disrupted in the second quarter of 2024 because of the conflict in the Republic of Sudan. The main pipeline transporting about 60% of crude to Port Sudan that was damaged is yet to be repaired. Consequently, revenue earnings fell considerably. 

15.   On Transitional Justice, slow progress is being made. Legislation for the Commission for Truth Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH), a Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) have been enacted. The process of operationalising these mechanisms is underway following approval of a Cabinet Memorandum by the Council of Ministers in January 2025 for their establishment. Regarding the CTRH, the African Union Commission and UNMISS are working together in the recruitment of 3 out of its 7 Commissioners. These are critical steps in driving the processes of national healing and reconciliation. In terms of the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS), no progress has been made. All three institutions should have been established by now, according to the Revitalised Agreement.

16.   Regarding the permanent constitution-making process, the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) formed sub-committees to conduct nationwide civic education and public consultations. However, the progress in implementation of these critical processes is delayed due to lack of resources.

    Mr President,

17.   Familiar challenges facing the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement persist, including low levels of political will and trust deficit among the Parties to the Agreement, and lack of predictable funding. Furthermore, capacity gaps and continued levels of intercommunal violence in the states slow the progress in implementation.

18.   However, with the extended Transitional Period due to begin in just over two weeks, key immediate requirements are the demonstration of political will and provision of funding for the Agreement institutions and mechanisms, the harmonisation of the work plans of the National Elections Commission and National Constitutional Review Commission, and completion of the unification of forces. Meanwhile, it is important to fully establish the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing. It is therefore critical that the activities on the part of the RTGoNU are actively energized and injected with a sense of urgency, as the new extended period commences on 23 February 2025.

19.   I, therefore, appeal to this Council to remain seized of the peace process in South Sudan, to consider conducting a visit to show solidarity with the RTGoNU as it enters this critical phase, and to encourage the international community to continue to mobilise resources and political support to help South Sudan achieve its first democratic elections in December 2026.

I Thank You!

- Your Excellency Dr Riek Machar Teny, First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of the Governance Cluster; 

-       Your Excellency, Dr James Wani Igga, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of the Economic Cluster; 

-       Your Excellency, Gen. Taban Deng Gai, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of the Infrastructure Cluster;

-       Your Excellency, Hussein Abdelbagi Akol, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of the Services Cluster;  

-       Your Excellency, Rebecca Nyandeng De Mabior, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of the Youth and Gender Cluster; 

-       Rt Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba, Speaker of the Reconstituted TNLA;

-       Rt Hon. Deng Deng Akon, Speaker of the Council of States;

-       Your Lordship Chan Reec Madut, Chief Justice;

-       Honourable Presidential Advisors;

-       Honourable Ministers;

-       Your Excellencies, Governors, Chief Administrators of the Administrative Areas, and Deputy Governors;

-       Your Excellencies Members of the Diplomatic Corps; 

-       Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good morning!

1.   It is my distinct honour to address this annual Governors’ Forum which provides an important platform for promoting dialogue and fostering smooth communication between the different levels of government in the country, with a view of enhancing policy coordination and sharing experiences. This Forum offers an opportunity to deliberate and reflect on the importance of transparency and accountability in governance as well as devolution of power and economic resources. 

2.   As the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), we are honoured to highlight our assessment on the status of the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan, consistent with our mandate to monitor, evaluate and oversee implementation of the Agreement, mandate and tasks of the RTGoNU as well as their adherence to an agreed implementation schedule.  

3.   My briefing today will therefore provide a chapter-by-chapter status update, highlighting key developments, recurring challenges, and conclude with recommendations.

Excellencies,

4.   As you may recall, when I addressed the 7th Governors’ Forum last year, elections were scheduled to take place in 13 months, as per the Roadmap. At that time, key benchmarks necessary for creating an enabling environment for the conduct of credible elections in December 2024, were yet to be attained. These included, inter alia,completion of unification of forces, making of a permanent constitution to guide the conduct of elections, and sufficient elections preparations. 

5.   However, limited progress has been registered in the implementation of the critical elections-related tasks, hence the Parties’ decision to postpone elections and extend the Transitional Period from 22nd February 2025 to 22nd February 2027 with elections scheduled for December 2026. In this regard, the RTGoNU committed to develop a coherent strategy with a clear and overarching action plan, budget and timelines for the implementation of priority tasks of the extended transitional period.

6.   Under Chapter 1 on governance, the reconstituted institutions related to elections processes, namely the National Elections Commission (NEC) and the Political Parties Council (PPC) commenced their work, having received initial funding for their preparatory activities. Further, the National Elections Commission reconstituted its subsidiary elections management bodies at the State level, the High Committees. 

7.      On legislative reforms, the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC), in February 2024, completed reviewing and drafting amendments of all the 25 pieces of legislation, as per its mandate. Most of these laws have been enacted by the Transitional National Legislature and assented to by the President. Further, the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature has continued to discharge its legislative and oversight functions pursuant to the Agreement. 

8.      Among the laws that have been assented to by the President, the recent and most critical ones include: The Anti-Corruption Commission Act; The Public Financial Management and Accountability Act; The Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing Act; The Compensation and Reparations Authority Act; The National Bureau of Statistics Act; The Civil Aviation Authority Act; and The Tourism Act. It is imperative that all the enacted laws are implemented in order to achieve the envisaged transformation in the Revitalised Peace Agreement. 

9.      The ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) has completed its mandate of studying and recommending appropriate judicial reforms. The JRC final report was validated and handed over to the RTGoNU at the end of October 2024 for its consideration and adoption. The RTGoNU should fast-track the implementation of the JRC’s recommendations, including the review of the Judiciary Act, reconstitution of the Judicial Service Commission, and the establishment of an independent Constitutional Court.

10.  Regarding the registration of political parties in preparations for elections, 29 political parties had been fully registered by the Political Parties Council as at 30th June 2024. However, there were concerns raised that the registration fee of US $75,000 was deemed prohibitive, to which the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs was petitioned and provided a legal opinion. In addition, the Political Parties Act 2022, prohibits registration of political parties with armed wings. It is therefore essential for the Parties to the Agreement to expedite the completion of unification of forces to enable those currently with armed wings register and participate in elections.

11.  Similarly, there are serious concerns that the Parties to the R-ARCSS have not adhered to the 35% minimum women representation threshold. Currently, no single woman holds the position of Governor or Chief Administrator in the Republic of South Sudan. RJMEC reiterates its appeal to the Parties to the R-ARCSS to adhere to the minimum women’s quota in the Executive and decision-making bodies at all levels of government.

Excellencies,

12.  Since the last Governors’ Forum, it is encouraging to note that the Parties to the R-ARCSS have continued to adhere to the Permanent Ceasefire. However, there weresome incidents of intercommunal violence which were reported in Unity, Jonglei, Western Equatoria, Central Equatoria, Warrap and Lakes States. In addition, sporadic clashes were reported between the SSPDF and the National Salvation Front (NAS) of Lt Gen. Thomas Cirillo, especially in Central Equatoria State. Furthermore, last week’s security incident which led to loss of lives and disrupted the relative peace in Juba, is unfortunate and regrettable. RJMEC encourages dialogue for resolving disputes. In this regard, I commend the national and state officials for their ongoing peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts.  

13.  RJMEC further commends the RTGoNU for agreeing to resume the Tumaini Initiative in Nairobi. It is imperative that this dialogue remains guided by the spirit of compromise, inclusivity and reconciliation in order to contribute to enduring peace in South Sudan.

14.  On Transitional Security Arrangements, the unification of forces has not progressed as expected since Phase I graduation of the Necessary Unified Forces. Out of 55,000 graduates, nine (09) battalions or approximately 7,000 of the military components were deployed in several parts of the country. The rest of the organized forces have not been deployed. The unification of Phase II forces and the DDR process have not yet commenced. The SDSR Board is yet to submit its validated policy documents to the Principals. In addition, the unification of the mid-level echelon Command is still pending. 

15.  In terms of humanitarian affairs, the RTGoNU launched the South Sudan Durable Solutions Strategy and Plan of Action for supporting refugees, returnees, IDPs and host communities. Also, some policies on humanitarian support and reconstruction were developed and await ratification. 

16.  The ongoing activities under this chapter include, among others,  enactment of the NGO Bill, which is currently before the Transitional National Legislative Assembly; provision of support to returnees and refugees fleeing the conflict in Sudan; and, creation of an enabling environment for delivery of humanitarian assistance.

17.  In terms of resource, economic and financial management,   the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) has continued to outperform its targets in mobilising non-oil revenue and was able to largely support the government’s budget during the year. The Revenue Authority embarked on several capacity-building activities that have enhanced its ability to assess, collect and administer taxation. Further reforms are expected such as a review of the Customs Valuation Exchange rate, reduction in tax exemptions by 50%, introduction of betting, gaming, and lotteries tax and that of a Digital Service Tax (DST).

18.  Several public service reform efforts such as the establishment of an effective public procurement and payroll system and cleansing exercise are ongoing. The focus is on the civil service, as the security services already have the relevant systems in place.

19.  Furthermore, on the management of public finances, it was noted that the Draft National Budget for Fiscal Year 2024/2025 was submitted three months behind the budget preparation schedule which contravened the Public Financial Management and Accountability Act. This practice limits legislative scrutiny of the fiscal and budgetary policies and undermines transparency and accountability in resource allocation and utilization. Moreover, it stalls the activities of government agencies, especially in the implementation of the provisions of the R-ARCSS.

20.  The Bank of South Sudan in executing its mandate of regulating the financial sector, embarked on a number of reforms to strengthen the banking system and improve its supervisory function and prudential regulatory role. It can now supervise the financial system, and with the support of development partners, improved its payment system. The Bank uses a real-time gross settlement system (RTGS) as well as the automated clearing house (ACH) network, thereby improving banking operations in the country.

21.  However, the Bank of South Sudan’s role of promoting price stability has been thwarted by many challenges such as the reduction in oil production, the global economic downturn, the rising commodity prices and unfavourable external shocks. These have so far resulted in rising inflation within the country and a reduction of the value of the national currency against other convertible currencies. This, in general, led to increasing commodity prices that have had dire consequences on livelihoods, reduced the ability of the people with fixed incomes to consume and erode investor confidence.

22.  Regarding the development of policies, strategies and programmes to better manage natural resources, there has been some progress in the Agricultural, Livestock, Fisheries and Wildlife sectors, water resources and land administration. The RTGoNU also engaged stakeholders on strategies on environmental protection to ensure sustainable development in South Sudan. However, there is need for greater efforts to develop and implement these policies.

23.  The delivery of development assistance to South Sudan as contained in Articles 4.3.1.6 and 4.3.1.8 of the R-ARCSS requires the RTGoNU to ensure increased partnerships and coordination amongst development and humanitarian partners through participatory and transparent mutual consent and accountability. The development partners and the recipient of development assistance should provide timely and compressive data on donor support (aid flows) to the states, sectors and institutions. I therefore urge the RTGoNU to implement these provisions as they support the achievement of sustainable peace, by addressing economic considerations that fuel instability. The RTGoNU is further urged to expedite public financial management at the state level to ensure sufficient capacity to enable them to function as required.

24.  On Transitional Justice, the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs drafted the Bills on the Commission for Truth Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and the Compensation and Reparations Authority (CRA). The Bills have been passed by the TNLA and assented to by His Excellency the President. What is now required is the establishment of the CTRH and CRA mechanisms and their operationalization. There has been no progress in setting up the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS). The RJMEC urges the RTGoNU to engage the African Union to meet and discuss the modalities for establishing the Hybrid Court for South Sudan. 

25.  With regard to the making of the Permanent Constitution under which provisions elections will be conducted, there has been some progress. The National Constitution Review Commission (NCRC) was reconstituted in December 2023 and thereafter developed its internal working documents. It submitted its action plan and budget to the RTGoNU and now awaits funding in order to commence its work. The NCRC is currently enhancing its technical and operational readiness to discharge its mandate. Key pending tasks include the recruitment of the Constitutional Drafting Committee (CDC) and commencement of countrywide civic education and public consultations. 

26.  In addition, the RTGoNU is required to establish the Preparatory Sub-Committee (PSC), a mechanism responsible for the convening of the National Constitutional Conference (NCC). The aspiration for a people-led and people-owned permanent constitution when achieved, will lay a firm foundation for a united, peaceful, democratic, and prosperous society based on justice, equality, respect for human rights and the rule of law. It is therefore pertinent that the RTGoNU establishes these Constitution-making mechanisms and avail funding to expedite the process.

Excellencies,

27.  In spite of the aforementioned progress, implementation of the R-ARCSS has faced many recurring challenges. Key among these have been the lack of political will, lack of predictable and sufficient funding to the Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms, trust deficit among the Parties, capacity gaps within the various implementation mechanisms, insecurity caused by activities of some holdout groups, severe flooding and ramifications of the conflict in Sudan.

28.  In light of the aforementioned, and given the theme of this Forum, I would like to make the following recommendations:

To the State Governments and Administrative Areas 

a.   Provide adequate security and promote open political and civic space at the state and local levels to enable the local populations to exercise their democratic rights and participate in the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement.

b.   Enhance and support community-led dialogue initiatives aimed at reconciliation among different communities so as to address persistent intercommunal tensions in order to promote peace efforts.

c.   Continue to support, coordinate and work with civil society, partners and stakeholders in disseminating the Revitalized Agreement at state and local levels.

d.  Foster collaboration with the relevant Agreement institutions and mechanisms tasked with the implementation of the constitution-making process to enhance citizens’ participation at state and other lower levels of government. 

e.   Facilitate and collaborate with the CTRH and CRA mechanisms, once established and operational, at state and local levels as they spearhead truth, reconciliation, healing, and reparations throughout the country.

To the RTGoNU

f.    Empower the state governments and administrative authorities and build their capacity to deliver services and undertake peacebuilding and reconciliation activities.

g.   Complete the unification of forces and their deployment throughout the country to enhance security in the States and Administrative Areas.

h.  Adopt the report of the Judicial Reform Committee and implement the recommended reforms to improve access to justice in the country.

i.    Provide adequate, timely and predictable resources to Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms for the implementation of the R-ARCSS.

Excellencies, 

29.  In conclusion, the leadership of the country at the national and state levels should therefore use this Forum to reflect on the challenges that have faced the implementation of the Agreement and resulted in repeated extensions of the R-ARCSS. The critical question to be addressed relates to what should be done differently during the next 24 months to ensure completion of implementation of the critical pending tasks of the R-ARCSS, and creation of a conducive environment for the conduct of credible, peaceful, free, and fair democratic elections in December 2026.

30. I wish you fruitful deliberations.

I Thank You. 

.        H.E. Dr. Wani Igaa, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan;

-       Rt. Hon. Jema Nunu Kumba, Speaker of the TNLA;

-       Hon. Losuba Ludoru Wongo, Minister for Federal Affairs;

-       Mr Guang Cong, Deputy SRSG [Representative of UNMISS];

-       Amb. Prof. Joram Biswaro, SRCC and Head of the African Union Mission in South Sudan

-       Honorable Ministers, Excellencies 

-       Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

-       All Protocol Observed

Good Morning!

1.   At the outset, I bring you warm greetings from H.E. Amb. Maj. Gen (rtd) Charles Tai Gituai, Interim Chairperson of RJMEC, who is unable to be here in person, at the opening of this high-level forum, due to unavoidable circumanstances.

2.   On behalf of the Interim Chairperson of RJMEC, allow me to thank the Council of States, the Ministry of Petroluem and the Ministry of Finance and Planning for convening this forum on: “Fiscal Devolution, Wealth Sharing and Revenue Management in South Sudan”. 

3.   In a special way, I would like to extend RJMEC’s appreciation to the UNMISS and UNDP for their continued support to the implementation of the R-ARCSS and for facilitating the convening of this forum.

4.   From RJMEC’s perspective, looking back to 2016, and prior, the conversations about federalism and its key tenets in the Republic of South Sudan have come a long way, and it is today very constructive, informative and progressive. 

5.   The ongoing conversations on federalism and the widely held expectation for a permanent constitution based on a federal system of government in the Republic of South Sudan after the Transitional Period, underscores a positive change in attitude, incuding the importance of getting the design and implementation of federalism right.

6.   So far, a lot of work has been done by the Ministry of Federal Affairs which has developed a clear policy guideline on federalism, other line Ministries supporting this endeavors, the Transitional National Legislature enacting laws to support reforms and the implementation of the Agreement, and various partners such as UNMISS, UNDP, the Max Plank Foundation and the International IDEA, who have all contributed to this endeavour.

7.   Today’s forum is particularly important, given that “fiscal responsibility and wealth sharing” are not only some of the key hallmarks of federalism  but also an area fraught with conflicts, and sometimes, they are the key obstacles, for the implementation of a viable federal arrangement.

8.   RJMEC therefore welcomes the timely nature of this high-level forum, delving deeper into this issue of fiscal federalism, wealth creation, and revenue management, and for bringing the reconstituted NCRC on board, to illuminate its various facets, listen to current concerns from the people on the ground, researchers, stakeholders, practitioners, and learn experiences and best practices.

9.       Furthermore, I would like to underscore that this engagement is a positive step to achieving the provision of Article 4.1.6 of the R-ARCSS which states:  “Revenue sharing shall reflect a commitment to devolution of powers and resources, and the decentralization of decision-making in regard to development, service delivery and governance”.  

10.   Furthermore, the conversations here will contribute to the implementation of Article 4.1.5 of R-ARCSS, which states that “the wealth of South Sudan shall be shared equitably so as to enable each level of government to discharge its reconstruction, development, legal and constitutional obligations, duties and responsibilities”.

11.  In conclusion, for fiscal devolution to be effective, there are a number of preconditions which need to taken into consideration. They include, among others,  a stable political environment; effective autonomous subnational governments; institutional capacity at regional/state and local levels of government; government accountability; effective democratic election infrastructure at all levels of government; and capacity to raise adequate levels of revenue locally.

12.  Finally, RJMEC is optimistic and confident that the outcome of this forum will go a long way in identifying a viable fiscal federalism model for South Sudan that can enhance effective governance, equitable development, and sustainable peacebuilding in a democratic and federal South Sudan. 

13.  I wish you fruitful deliberations over the next two days.

I Thank You!

 -Honourable Ministers, 

-  Excellencies, 

-  Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning!

1.     I welcome you all to the 38th plenary meeting of the RJMEC. This is the first meeting since the Parties to the Agreement agreed to extend the Transitional Period by an additional 24 months, a decision that was endorsed by the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) Council of Ministers, and consented to by the RJMEC.  It was then ratified by the Transitional National Legislature, and from there assented to by the President of the Republic of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit. The extended Transitional Period is therefore effective from 22 February 2025 to 22 February 2027, with elections due in December 2026. This is a tight timeline, which requires deliberate planning and a sense of urgency, in order to have all the critical pending tasks accomplished for the elections to take place as scheduled. 

2.     As you are all aware, the decision for the extension was met with mixed reactions, with many being disappointed at what felt like the continuation of an endless cycle of transitions. The slow pace of implementation and inability to adhere to timelines by the RTGoNU are major sources of concern. Consequently, due to the non-completion of the critical preparatory tasks of the Agreement required for elections, it was clear that the country was not ready for elections as previously scheduled in December 2024.

3.     Throughout implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, progress has been slowed down by many recurring challenges such as insufficient political will, trust deficit, lack of sufficient, dedicated and predictable funding, and capacity gaps. Therefore, there is unprecedented need to do things differently this time around. A clear demonstration by the RTGoNU to mobilise sufficient resources to implement the Agreement would be a strong indication of political will and commitment. As the honourable representative of the RTGoNU told us at the extraordinary plenary, “the bulk of funding must be internally generated.” It is our expectation that this funding will be availed immediately.

4.     It is therefore expected that the RTGoNU and the various institutions and mechanisms of the Agreement will brief this meeting about their strategies to align and deliver their tasks within the extended Transitional Period. These should include action plans, budget, timelines, and resource mobilisation, and proactive engagement with the various other Agreement institutions and mechanisms.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

5.     In terms of the status of implementation of the R-ARCSS, I will highlight some of the recent developments since our last meeting, and then conclude with recommendations.

6.     Firstly, governance. It is understood that the Political Parties Council (PPC), the National Elections Commission (NEC), the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) have each provided a timeline and accompanying budget to the RTGoNU covering the extended Transitional Period. It is expected that the RTGoNU will fund these institutions accordingly. In RJMEC’s view that,  enhanced cooperation between these institutions can better align their respective workplans and priorities. It is expected that they will provide more details on their work to this meeting. 

7.     With regard to judicial reforms, RJMEC welcomes the validation of the final report of the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) which nears completion of its mandate, as provided for under Article 1.17 of the R-ARCSS. A reformed, effective, independent, and impartial judiciary in South Sudan will be an anchor of justice, liberty and the rule of law before, during and after elections, and for the future generations. It is now incumbent upon the RTGoNU to adopt this report and to effectively and expeditiously implement the recommended reforms. As demonstrated by both the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) and the JRC, with financial and other support, Agreement institutions and mechanisms can deliver their mandates successfully.  

8.     In terms of women’s representation in the executive and legislative appointments, RJMEC would like to emphasise the importance of the minimum 35% threshold for their representation. Further, it is important to remind the Parties that when replacements in these appointments take place, they should not reduce the overall count of women in these positions. Instead, women’s representation should be increased in executive and legislative appointments. As was underscored at the recent 4th annual national conference on Women, Peace and Security, women’s leadership and full inclusion in peacebuilding and political processes is central to achieving lasting peace and security in South Sudan. The inclusion in leadership, will be boosted by the prioritisation of the impending Bills on Anti-Gender Based Violence (GBV), Women Empowerment, the Women Enterprise Development Fund, Persons With Disability, and Family Law, among others.

9.     In regard to transitional security arrangements, The permanent ceasefire continues to hold, however,  there have been several alarming  incidents of violence in Nassir County, Upper Nile State, that have claimed several lives and displaced thousands of families. The incidents in Wondoruba and Jebel Iraqi in Central Equatoria State involved gruesome killing of approximately 26 youth, allegedly by uniformed personnel. I have been informed that a committee has been appointed to investigate the incidents in Nassir County and in Central Equatoria State. I would like to hear more from the JDB on this matter. Furthermore, I call upon CTSAMVM to expeditiously investigate these incidents. Those found responsible should be held accountable.

10.  On the Transitional Security Arrangements, no progress has been reported since the last Plenary. The challenges that have long existed still persist, including lack of funding for security mechanisms and their activities, poor logistical support to Training Centres and Cantonment Sites, and lack of funding for the DDR Commission. The DDR Commission, established as per article 1.19.1.20 of the R-ARCSS, and  being one of the most important commissions critical for the stabilisation of the country, reports that it has not been funded by the Government since its reconstitution.  There are reports that NTC has been working on a consolidated workplans for the security mechanisms. This meeting expects to hear more on this from the NTC. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

11.  On Humanitarian affairs, there are growing humanitarian needs in South Sudan, considering the influx of refugees and IDPs due to the conflict in Sudan and the natural calamities like floods and increased food shortages.  It  was therefore welcome news to hear that the South Sudan Action Plan on Return, Reintegration, and Recovery was recently launched by the Vice President H.E. Rebecca Nyandeng. The national policy aims at providing durable solutions for refugees, IDPs, returnees and host communities. It is expected that the policy will help answer critical questions on how IDPs and refugees will be settled and participate in the constitution-making and electoral processes.

12.  On Resource, Economic and Financial management, the regulations which govern the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Authority, and the Bank of South Sudan’s statutory functions have recently been developed following the passing of key legislation in 2023. In particular, efforts in strengthening the financial system through reforms to the Bank of South Sudan help to promote financial stability by regulating by law, all financial institutions. I therefore urge the Bank of South Sudan, to continue exercising its statutory functions, especially in relation to promoting price stability and monetary policy formulation, as per Article 4.2.2.2 of the R-ARCSS.

13.  The submission of the Draft National Budget for Fiscal Year 2024/2025 to the TNLA on 25 September 2024 ,is three months behind budget preparation schedule. With funding being a key part of the requirements for the extended Transitional Period, it is important that the budget aligns with peace implementation needs in a timely manner. RJMEC urges its finalisation as soon as possible.

14.  Furthermore, with the reported resumption of oil flowing through the pipeline that runs through Sudan, this should likewise provide budgetary support to peace implementation. More broadly, with the economic hardship currently being experienced in the country, RJMEC calls for the establishment of the Enterprise Development Fund, the Youth Enterprise Development Fund and the Women Enterprise Development Fund.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

15.  On transitional justice, it is noted that the Bills for the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) were passed by the Transitional National Legislative Assembly in September and thereafter submitted to the Council of States for scrutiny. The Bills have now been submitted to the President for assent. Given the critical importance of these Bills in enabling the establishment of the mechanisms that will spearhead goals of truth, reconciliation, justice, reparations and healing, RJMEC urges the RTGoNU to conclude enactment of the Bills and to prioritise the establishment and operationalisation of the CTRH and CRA.

16.  In terms of the permanent constitution making process, RJMEC understands that the reconstituted National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) has taken steps to ensure its institutional readiness for the delivery of its mandate. In this regard, RJMEC takes note that ten members of the NCRC are awaiting formal appointments and swearing in, and appeals to the RTGoNU to expedite this process.

17.  Furthermore, the NCRC has developed its action plan with a budget and timeline, and requires funding from the RTGoNU, to commence civic education and public consultation. RJMEC further appeals to the RTGoNU to avail the requisite resources and support to the NCRC to enable it to conduct its activities in a timely manner, given that the Permanent Constitution is a critical pre-requisite for the holding of elections.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

18.  For its part, RJMEC has enhanced its diplomatic engagements since the last plenary, including having met various interlocutors, such as the First Vice President, the Vice Presidents, different national Ministers of the RTGoNU,  Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms, regional guarantors, AU C5, Ambassadors and international partners based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and in Nairobi, Kenya.  These engagements have provided updates on the implementation of the R-ARCSS and sought to have a deliberate and aligned approach focused on enhanced support for the South Sudan peace process.

19.  Given the aforementioned, and in light of the need to do things differently in order to adhere to the agreed timelines and implementation schedule as per the extended period, I would like to offer thefollowing recommendations to the RTGoNU:

a.     Provide a strategy with a clear, coherent and overarching action plan, budget and timeline for the implementation of the priority tasks for the extended transitional period to build confidence, and aid ?resource mobilisation and support;

b.     Coordinate the Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms so that their workplans are aligned, coherent, and collaborative to ensure effective and efficient implementation;

c.      Mobilise and dedicate adequate and predictable funding to the Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms now and throughout the extended Transitional Period;

d.     Enhance the effectiveness of the Government–Tri Lateral Taskforce to help identify areas of collaboration and support to address issues related to the constitution-making and electoral processes in a timely manner;

e.      Increase women’s representation in the executive and legislative appointments up to and beyond the 35% minimum threshold given their centrality of the roles of women in achieving lasting peace and security in South Sudan;

f.       Expedite the completion of the unification of forces and their deployment, and DDR;

g.     Address questions of how South Sudanese refugees and IDPs will participate in the constitution-making and electoral processes; and

h.     Complete enactment of the CTRH and CRA bills paving way for the establishment and operationalization of these critical transitional justice mechanisms. 

20.  In conclusion, I urge the Parties to replicate the spirit of collegiality, consensus and urgency, exhibited in extending the Transitional Period, to expeditiously implement the critical pending tasks within this extended period, especially the constitution-making and electoral processes, and the unification of forces.

21.  Furthermore, it is important to observe that South Sudan has friends and partners who are willing to support the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, provided the RTGoNU leads the process by providing the bulk of the funding. Securing predictable funding and making early progress with the implementation of these outstanding tasks will therefore send a positive signal across the country that the Parties are making good on their promises and would attract timely support. I therefore appeal to the RTGoNU, to make a significant step in the implementation of the Agreement in these remaining months, before the end of the year, as a Christmas gift to the people of South Sudan.

22.  I wish you fruitful deliberations.

I Thank You!

Honourable Members, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning!

1.   I welcome you all to the 3rd Extraordinary Meeting of the RJMEC. As you are all aware, our 38thregular plenary meeting was scheduled for 26th September 2024. However, as provided for under Article 7.12 of the R-ARCSS, RJMEC may convene extraordinary meetings as deemed necessary. This meeting is being convened at the request of the RTGoNU for RJMEC members to consider the decision of the Parties to the R-ARCSS to extend the Transitional Period of the Revitalized Peace Agreement for twenty-four months from 22nd February 2025 to 22nd February 2027.

2.   Allow me to provide some context regarding the RJMEC’s role in this regard. Under Article 7.6 of the R-ARCSS, RJMEC is responsible for monitoring and overseeing the implementation of the Agreement and the mandate and tasks of the RTGoNU, including adherence of the Parties to the agreed timelines and implementation schedule. Under Article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS “the Revitalized Agreement may be amended by the Parties, with at least two-thirds of the members of the Council of Ministers of the RTGoNU, and at least two-thirds of the voting members of the RJMEC consenting to the amendment, followed by ratification by the Transitional National Legislature”.

3.   The 1st Extraordinary Meeting of RJMEC was held almost six years ago, on 19th February 2019, to consider the budget of the National Pre-Transitional Committee (NPTC). The 2ndExtraordinary Meeting was held on 1st September 2022, during which the members consented to the  ‘Roadmap’, which extended the Transitional Period of the Revitalized Peace Agreement by two years to February 2025. 

4.   Over the last nineteen months of the implementation of the tasks provided for under the Roadmap, some progress has been registered, particularly: 

a.   Under Chapter 1 the reconstitution and operationalization of the critical election related institutions namely the Political Parties Council (PPC) and the National Elections Commission (NEC); completion of the review and amendment of the remaining laws by the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC); registration of new political parties; completion by the ad-hoc Judicial Reforms Committee of its work, and enactment by the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) of several revised laws;

b.   Under Chapter II the completion of Phase 1 graduation of 55,000 Necessary Unified Forces (NUF), the deployment of eight (08) battalions of the army component of the NUF, as well as the appointment of 2995 non-commissioned police officers into the South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS), and the completion of the Strategic Defense and Security Review (SDSR) draft policy documents;

c.    Under Chapter III, the revised NGO Act Amendment Bill was endorsed by the RTGoNU Council of Ministers and submitted to the TNLA, and a consolidated Durable Solutions Framework for supporting the dignified return and reintegration of IDPs and Refugees was approved by the Council of Ministers;

d.   Under Chapter IV, reforms are ongoing in the resource, economic and public finance management; the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Authority (PPDA) has been created and is functional as required by the Agreement; several bills have been passed by the TNLA including: the Public Financial Management and Accountability (PFMA), Anti Corruption Act, the Bank of South Sudan and the Banking Acts. In addition, the Bill for the Fiscal Financial Allocation Monitoring Committee, which is to ensure transparency of allocations of national revenue to the States and Counties has been approved by the Council of Ministers and now awaits tabling before the TNLA. 

e.    Under Chapter V on Transitional Justice and Accountability, the Ministry of Justice undertook and completed a countrywide consultation which resulted into the drafting and enactment of the bills for the establishment of the Commission on Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and Compensation and Reparations Authority (CRA) by the TNLA, which now awaits assent of the President.

f.     Under Chapter VI- the law for the making of the permanent constitution was enacted, and the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) was reconstituted and has commenced its work. The Commission has since held several orientation and training workshops, and developed and adopted all its internal governing instruments. 

5.  However, despite the aforementioned progress, some very critical tasks remain pending. These include enactment of the Petroleum related bills, the Audit Chamber, and the NGO Bills; the finalization and implementation of the Judicial Reform Commission (JRC) reports; the completion of Phase I and commencement of Phase II unification of forces, and the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) and Disarmament Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) processes; establishment and operationalization of the  Commission for Truth Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and Compensations and Reparation Authority (CRA); the making of the Permanent Constitution, and ensuring sufficient preparation for the conduct of elections. 

6.  As RJMEC, we have repeatedly expressed our concerns over the slow pace and limited progress in completing the critical requirements for elections, and the lack of sufficient funding for the implementation of the  Agreement. In March this year, we requested the Parties to the R-ARCSS to dialogue on the way forward to ensure the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections in a timely manner as per the Roadmap, but despite all the pressure put, the response has been slow to come out in an appropriate time frame. However today, the RTGoNU will shortly brief you on the process and outcome of the interparty dialogue and the decisions that have been made by the Parties as a way forward to elections. 

7.   As RJMEC, our primary concern has been the lack of dedicated and predictable funding in this peace process. Therefore, any extension, without guaranteed funding, is not likely to result in a successful outcome. I therefore call upon the RTGoNU to demonstrate to RJMEC members, how funding in particular, and the other recurrent challenges that have held back the implementation of the R-ARCSS in the past will be remedied to ensure that the critical pending tasks will be completed and elections held as promised.

8.   I therefore invite all of you RJMEC voting members, pursuant to Article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS, to deliberate and pronounce yourselves on the Parties’ decision, which calls for amendment of Article 1.1.2 of the Revitalized Agreement, to further extend the Transitional Period from 22ndFebruary 2025 to 22nd February 2027. 

9.   I wish you fruitful deliberations.

I Thank You.

-       President of the UN Security Council,

-       Distinguished Members of the Council,

-       Excellencies,

-       Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Mr President,

1.    I congratulate you and the Republic of Sierra Leone for assuming the presidency of the Security Council this month. May I also thank you for inviting the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) to address this esteemed Council.

2.    RJMEC is the official oversight body responsible for overseeing, monitoring and evaluating the status of the implementation of the 2018 Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan.

3.    Next month, South Sudan marks six years since the signing of the Revitalised Agreement, its longest period of relative peace and stability since independence in 2011. However, since then, the pace of implementation has been slow.

4.    Despite the extension of the Transitional Period by 24 months, key tasks such as completion of the unification of forces, making of the permanent constitution, and various elections-related preparatory tasks are still outstanding.

5.    My briefing today builds on previous RJMEC reports to this Council, and will therefore highlight our assessment of the status of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

Mr President,

6.    In terms of governance, the Executive and Legislature have continued to convene regularly and discharge their respective mandates at the national and state levels.

7.    In preparation for elections, the Political Parties Council has adopted a Code of Conduct, and registered 29 political parties, but concerns exist regarding the procedures followed, and the registration fees. The National Elections Commission has reconstituted the State level High Committees, but there are concerns about criteria used, and gender representation.

8.    With regards to the prospects of elections, an inter-party Committee reviewed the Roadmap implementation, and submitted its report to the Principals, who met yesterday, 13 August. In response, the Parties to the Agreement by consensus have tasked the relevant institutions and the inter-party Committee to develop a realistic timetable for elections. It is expected that the timetable will be accompanied by a budget and guaranteed funding.

9.    In terms of the Transitional Security Arrangements, the permanent ceasefire continues to hold, which is commendable. Approximately 55,000 of the 83,000 Phase 1 Unified Forces were trained and graduated. Since then, eight battalions of the army component have been deployed, with the remainder still not yet deployed.

10.    In addition, 2,995 non-commissioned police officers of the Unified Forces were recently appointed into the South Sudan National Police Service and await deployment. Phase 2 training of the Unified Forces and the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration process have yet to commence.

11.    Regarding the ongoing Nairobi talks, also known as Tumaini Initiative, the Revitalised Agreement Parties have directed that outcomes should align with the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

12.    On humanitarian affairs, the situation in the country remains challenged by food insecurity, flooding, and the influx of refugees and returnees from Sudan. Importantly, the Special Reconstruction Fund provided for in the Agreement, intended to mobilise resources to support humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in South Sudan, has not yet been established.

13.    The resource, economic and financial management reforms continue, albeit at a slow pace. On the other hand, the economic situation continues to worsen, compounded by a reduction in oil revenue. Much of the population is in distress due to rising commodity prices, a decline in the value of the South Sudan Pound, and reduced purchasing power.

14.    The bills for the establishment of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing and the Compensation and Reparation Authority, are still in Parliament. These institutions are intended to drive forward the much-needed process for reconciliation and healing in South Sudan.

15.    In terms of the Permanent Constitution making process, the National Constitutional Review Commission has made strides to enhance its internal readiness. However, key tasks, which include civic education and public consultations, have not substantively begun.

Mr President,

16.    The main challenges in the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement include insufficient political will, trust deficit among the Parties, capacity gaps, and persistent levels of intercommunal violence in the states. Furthermore, all the Agreement institutions and mechanisms have insufficient and unpredictable funding which is hampering their work.

17.   Nonetheless, the Revitalised Agreement has contributed to relative peace, inclusive governance structures, and the ongoing legal, security and economic reforms. It is evident that the Revitalised Agreement remains the most viable blueprint and transformative framework for achieving enduring peace and prosperity.

18.  I therefore appeal to this Council to remain seized of the peace process in South Sudan and to encourage the international community to mobilise resources and political support for full implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan. I Thank You.