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Your Excellency, Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers
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- Excellencies, Members of the Council
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- Your Excellency, IGAD Executive Secretary
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- Your Excellency, IGAD Special Envoy to South Sudan
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- Honourable Ministers,
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- Excellencies,
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- Ladies and Gentlemen,
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It is an honour to present to the Council my report on the status of implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). This report builds on the briefing I made to the members of the 70thExtraordinary Session of the IGAD Council of Ministers held on 8th February 2020 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
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My report highlights the prevailing political, security, humanitarian and economic situation in South Sudan as well as the status of the implementation of the R-ARCSS and concludes with recommendations.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
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The Council may recall that in my last briefing, I informed of the outstanding Pre- Transitional tasks critical for laying a firm foundation for the formation of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU). These included, among others, the resolution of the number of States and their boundaries; allocation of ministerial and deputy ministerial portfolios to the Parties to the Agreement; ratification of and assent to the Constitutional Amendment Bill (No. 6) 2020; restructuring and reconstitution of the Transitional National Legislature (i.e. the Transitional National Legislative Assembly and the Council of States); and selection, screening, training and redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF).
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On the issue of the number of States, this matter was resolved when President Salva Kiir Mayardit returned the country to ten (10) States and communicated this formally to the Chairperson of IGAD. While announcing this critical decision on 15th February 2020, President Salva Kiir Mayardit also named three administrative areas in the Republic of South Sudan as Abyei Administrative Area (AAA), Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) and Ruweng Administrative Area (RAA).
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In addition, the President assented to the Constitutional Amendment Bill (No. 6) 2020 on 19th February 2020. The RTGoNU was established on 22nd February 2020 with the swearing in of the First Vice President and the Four Vice Presidents.
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On 12th March 2020, the President appointed the members of the Council of Ministers and Deputy Ministers of the RTGoNU. However, the Parties did not adhere to the 35% mandatory provision for women participation in the Executive as these appointments stood at only 26% and 10% respectively. I have urged that the Incumbent TGoNU and SPLM/A-IO rectify this violation in line with articles 1.12.2 and 1.12.5 of the R-ARCSS, and all the Parties adhere to the 35% provision in their future nominations.
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The Council will appreciate that the formation of the RTGoNU and its Council ofMinisters are significant steps towards full establishment of the RTGoNU’s structure andcomposition. It is, however, regrettable that delays have persisted in the restructuring and reconstitution of the TNLA and the Council of States, and agreement between the Parties on the responsibility sharing at the State and Local Government levels.
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The Parties to the R-ARCSS have tried to address the issue of responsibility sharing at the State and Local Government levels in recent weeks, including the three Administrative Areas, through inter-party consultations. Unfortunately, they have failed to agree on the way forward. Consequently, Dr Riek Machar Teny, First Vice President and Chairperson of the SPLM/A-IO, sought my intervention to assist the Parties break the deadlock, in line with article 7.11 of the R-ARCSS.
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I convened a consultative meeting of the representatives of the Parties to the R-ARCSS on 27th March 2020 in an attempt to break the deadlock on responsibility sharing at the State and Local Government levels. The Parties, however, failed to agree on the way forward. I have also continued to engage with the top leadership of the Agreement Parties in a bid to find a solution. I made a proposal to the Agreement Parties as per article 1.16.1 of the R-ARCSS, but to date, there is still no positive outcome on this matter to report to the Council.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen
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On the legislative reforms as provided for in the R-ARCSS, the NCAC has continued to work on the review and amendments of the economic and financial sector laws in order to strengthen fiscal responsibility, accountability and control in the management of public funds. The laws under review include the Public Financial Management and Accountability Act, 2011 and the National Audit Chamber Act, 2011. The Committee has received and reviewed submissions to both laws from the key institutions, and the process is at an advanced stage. The reviews of the Petroleum Revenue Management Act 2012 and the Petroleum Act, 2012 have also begun.
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TheNCACisalsomandatedtoreceivealistofnomineesfromtheAgreementPartiesto be appointed members of the reconstituted TNLA as per articles 1.14.2 and 1.18.1.4 of the Agreement. The R-ARCSS stipulates that the duration and term of the TNLA shall run concurrently with that of the RTGoNU with effect from the commencement of the Transitional Period. I wrote to the Agreement Parties about their obligation under the R-ARCSS to submit the list of their nominees to the NCAC. Yet, to date, the NCAC has only received the list of nominees from the Former Detainees (FDs). I have therefore written again to the leadership of the Parties reminding them of the urgency to submit their nominees to the NCAC.
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There is concern arising from the alterations detected by the NCAC in the Constitutional Amendment Act (No. 6) 2020, which appear to have been made after the NCAC submitted the Constitutional Amendment Bill (No. 6) 2020 to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs of the ITGoNU. The Act, which was assented to by H.E Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan on 19th February 2020, is different in substance from the Bill that the NCAC submitted to the ITGoNU. Accordingly, I have brought this matter to the attention of the President for rectification.
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The SPLM/A-IO leadership raised concerns with me on the procedures used for recent political appointments made by the President for the various office holders, including: the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum vide Decree No. 37/2020 dated March 13, 2020; six (06) Ambassadors vide Decree No. 28/2020 dated 26 February 2020 and Decree No. 30/2020 dated 27 February 2020; the Governor and two (02) Deputy Governors of the Bank of South Sudan vide Decree No. 09/2020 dated 22 January 2020 and Decree No. 39/2020 dated 25 March 2020, which are perceived to be inconsistent with the provisions of the R-ARCSS. I have raised these concerns with H.E. the President and also indicated the procedures required by the R-ARCSS for the various appointments and I am still awaiting further response.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
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Concerning the general security situation in the country, the Permanent Ceasefire has continued to hold due to the Agreement Parties adhering to the provisions of the R- ARCSS. Fighting in Maiwut between the SPLA-IO forces allied to SSPDF and the SPLA- IO forces allied to Dr Riek Machar was resolved through a Reconciliation Committee agreement on 11th February 2020. However, there are concerns that the same parties to the conflict renewed clashes in Maiwut and Jakou areas in early April. Furthermore, there are reports of new abductions in some parts of the Equatorias despite signing of the Rome Declaration.
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There are also concerns of reports of intermittent violent inter-communal clashes in several States and the Abyei Administrative Area. This violence is partly attributed to the leadership vacuum as a result of delays in the appointment of Governors in the respective States.
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On the status of implementation of the Transitional Security Arrangements, there are about 78,500 security personnel currently registered at the various cantonment sites, barracks and training centres. According to CTSAMVM reports, about 35,000 combatants still remain in cantonment sites and about 45,500 personnel, with 3,612 being women, are in various training centres. Screening and training of the NUF and the VIP Protection Forces are yet to be completed.
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There are various challenges reported at cantonment sites and training centres. These include: insufficient food supply; lack of medicines; poor sanitary conditions; and lack of separate facilities and dignity kits for female trainees and dependents at the centres. The recent announcement by the RTGoNU of the establishment of a Transitional Committee for Coordination of the Implementation of Security Arrangements is a positive indication that the RTGoNU will focus on and complete the pending security tasks. Despite the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and its challenges, training of NUF continues albeit with restricted access to the training centres.
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The Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) Commission is undertaking an assessment of the ex-combatants currently being screened out from the training process, and has registered about 14 000. The Commission has also conducted regional visits and discussed the establishment of 8 DDR transit sites across the country with respective local authorities. The Commission has also completed the drafting of a revised DDR Strategic Plan and Programme. However, the DDR Commission continues to face various challenges, including lack of funding and inadequate coordination with other Transitional Security Institutions and Mechanisms.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
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Concerning the humanitarian situation, the UNOCHA’s March 2020 Snapshot estimates that 7.5 million people in South Sudan are in need of humanitarian assistance and 6 million are reported to be severely food insecure. A decline in funding, and the continuing inter-communal violence in Abyei, Lakes, Jonglei and Warrap States have led to a reduced humanitarian footprint in the areas of need. Further, the locusts’ invasion in the Equatoria and Lakes regions coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic will affect food production.
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Furthermore, about 600,000 refugees and internally displaced persons have spontaneously returned home since the signing of the R-ARCSS. Most of the displaced persons and refugees, however, are not yet confident enough to voluntarily return home despite the general improvement in the security situation in the country owing to the lack of basic services in the areas of return. The spontaneous returns have now been hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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On the economy, the recent collapse of the oil prices, reflecting the global economic downturn relating to the recent COVID-19 pandemic has led to a drastic decline in oil revenues. South Sudan’s oil revenues were budgeted at around US $ 55 per barrel forthe current budget year, but at the end of March, the price of oil fell to less than US $ 25. If the loss of oil revenues persists, then budgeting will become very challenging.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
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Theemergingglobalhealthchallengesnotwithstanding,theRJMECisreconstitutingthe six thematic RJMEC Working Committees in the coming days, as per Article 7.3 of the R-ARCSS and Clause 9 of the RJMEC Terms of Reference. These Working Committees will interface with a combination of the RTGoNU Ministerial clusters and relevant lineministries. The Working Committees will be RJMEC’s core platform to developmonitoring and evaluation indicators for each chapter, evaluate progress of implementation, assess capacity, identify gaps and recommend remedial steps towards effective implementation of the R-ARCSS.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
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Before I conclude, I have the following observations to make regarding the overall implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. The pace of implementation has slowed markedly due to a number of impediments that include, among others, the following:
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the low level of trust and confidence and the spirit of collegial leadership is lacking resulting in the absence of political reconciliation between the Parties to implement the R-ARCSS in letter and spirit;
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unjustifiable delays to implement outstanding tasks of the R-ARCSS due to deliberate action by some Parties to the Agreement, including the failure to nominate members to the TNLA and to compromise on responsibility sharing at the State and Local Government levels;
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violations of the R-ARCSS, including (i) the alterations made to Constitutional Amendment Bill (No.6) 2020 after it was submitted to the ITGoNU by the NCAC; (ii) the failure of the Parties to adhere to the 35% provision for women participation in the Executive of the RTGoNU; and (iii) the political appointments undertaken after the formation of the RTGoNU that are inconsistent with the provisions of the R-ARCSS;
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defections of some members of the security forces from one group to the other at the time when the process of unification of forces is ongoing; and
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impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
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As a consequence, these issues are undermining the effective implementation of the R- ARCSS. The Council, therefore, needs to pay attention to them so that the challenges are rectified.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
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I would like to conclude with the following recommendations.
1. The Council to:prevail on the Parties to expedite the implementation of the outstanding tasks of the R-ARCSS, which were carried over from the Pre-Transitional Period;
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urge the RTGoNU to rectify the alterations made to the Constitutional Amendment Bill (No.6) 2020;
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encourage the Agreement Parties to address the shortfall of the 35% provision for women participation in the Executive of the RTGoNU;
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prevail on the Agreement Parties to amicably and expeditiously resolve the deadlock on responsibility sharing at the State and Local Government levels;
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appeal to all Agreement Parties to adhere to the timelines of implementation of activities of the Transitional Period;
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urge the Agreement Parties who have not yet submitted their lists of nominees for the TNLA to the NCAC to do so without further delay;
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appeal to the Regional Guarantors, International Partners and Friends of South Sudan to provide the requisite support for the implementation of the R-ARCSS;
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encourage the Presidency to enhance collegial collaboration and continuous consultations;
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urge the RTGoNU to put in place progammes for the voluntary, safe and dignified return and resettlement of displaced persons and refugees; and
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continue to adhere to the IGAD Declaration on the COVID-19 Pandemic in order to mitigate the threat posed to the population.
26. Finally, I wish to reassure the Council that the RJMEC remains fully committed to discharge its mandate in the face of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
I thank you.
Good Afternoon
1. I wish to start by commending the conveners, facilitators and participants of this very important Workshop. The successful conclusion of this very timely Workshop marks an encouraging beginning of the extension to the Pre-Transitional Phase that begins tomorrow, 12 May 2019.
2. I am told the workshop went well and that significant progress was made, I congratulate youfor what you have achieved in a short time and at short notice. It is my hope that we shall keep this momentum going and double our determination, in order to avoid the agreed roadmap and implementation schedule from falling behind schedule, again.
3. When I addressed you yesterday I expressed my concern regarding the size and complexity of the task lying ahead of you and thetime available to achieve success. We are all aware that failure is not an option and that the people of South Sudan are watching anxiously, waiting to see real action that will improve their lives and produce lasting peace.
4. I also spoke about measures neededto get the key actions of Cantonment, selection, training and redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces back on track.
5. The first step being,to enhance cooperation both within and between your organizations. I am informed that this Workshop has already demonstrated improved coordination and plans are already underway to enhance the work of the Mechanisms through information sharing and the allocation of more human and technical resources.
6. In particular, I am pleased to see thepresence of NPTC and hear about their involvement in both the discussions and the development of detailed plans to meet the new targets. I understand that NPTC has pledged to provide support to the Secretariatsincluding office space, equipment, communications and movement support. We will workclosely with NPTC to assist them in fulfilling this pledge as quickly as possible.
7. Looking forward, I expect that there will be regular meetings between the four mechanisms and involvement by NPTC, RJMEC, CTSAMVM and internationalpartners.
8. I welcome the production of detailed action plans showing confirmed locations for Cantonment sites, resources to be procured to both establish and support them with agreed budgets. I welcome toothe agreement that planning and preparation for Cantonment will run concurrently with plans to select, train anddeploy the necessary Unified Forces.
9. Most important of all,will be the announcement of a startdate for cantonment and the official opening of selected pilot cantonment sites.
10. I reiterate that logistics demands of Cantonment, training and redeployment of the necessary Unified Forces will require skilled procurement and financial staff support. I look forward to seeing the details of how this task will be performed.
11. Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) will be key to the successful end of this conflict, and must also be urgently addressed. I shall be working closely with the IGAD Special Envoy to expedite the reconstitution of the DDR Commission.
12. I wish to restate my appreciation toyou all for the two days of hard work and congratulate you for your achievements. This is a good firststep on a long road. I have no doubt that there are challenges ahead,but I am confident that the people in this room have the skills and experience to overcome them. This, however, takes leadership and teamwork.
13. We hope to get assistance for you from other organizations and agencies where you request for it. RJMEC and the Office of the IGAD SE stand readyto offer whatever assistance we can provide.
14. With these few remarks,I want to offer my sincerest thanks to you all and declare this Workshop closed
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Your Excellency, the Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers; Your Excellencies, Members of the Council;
Your Excellency, IGAD Executive Secretary;
Your Excellency, IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan;
Hon. Ministers, Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen.
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Following my earlier statement to this Summit I wish to take this opportunity to present to you a more detailed summary on the status of implementation of the R-ARCSS. This Report builds on our first quarter 2019 Report, and on our assessment that was made in the letter delivered to His Excellency Dr. Abey, Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia, both of which have been availed to you.
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I am pleased to note that the overall security situation has improved and continues to do so. However, efforts need to continue in order to address some long outstanding issues. Of note is the continued occupation of civilian buildings by the forces of some of the Parties to the Agreement. As a matter of urgency, these buildings must be vacated immediately and the Parties report to CTSAMVM so that it can be verified.
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One of the main issues to recur throughout the Pre-Transitional period has been CTSAMVM access in its work of monitoring and verifying the forces of all Parties in South Sudan. In view of its mandate to enjoy free and unfettered access, it continues to experience obstacles, which hampers the discharge of its mandate. With regards to the Luri incident of 18th December 2018, I recommend that a joint field visit with the representatives of the Parties take place as soon as possible.
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The denial of access and information to CTSAMVM has implications that extend into all the security arrangements envisaged by the R-ARCSS. The reluctance on the part of South Sudanese forces to share data on exact troop numbers and locations has a negative impact on planning, which is an essential component for the unification of all forces. As we know, the unification of all forces is an essential requirement for the formation of the Revitalized Transitional Government.
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We still do not know the correct and verified number of troops of the Parties in South Sudan with certainty, nor their precise locations. Of course, there could well be numbers of troops and their locations of which we are completely unaware. This amounts to the circumvention of cantonment, which is a task that all Parties agreed to in signing the R-ARCSS. No troops may be trained and deployed outside of the cantonment process.
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A direct ramification of this is to complicate the operationalization of cantonment, which we have identified as the greatest concern in the slow implementation of the Agreement. Although locations have been identified, the logistical support required to manage the process has not been put in place, and this results in part from the failure to provide accurate data upon which to base the planning. Furthermore, I must stress that all the forces under the command of the Parties must be ready for cantonment.
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The data that we presently lack, once given, will provide a precise indication of the truth of the matter, and we urge that all necessary support be given to ensure accurate and consistent data from all the forces of South Sudan is provided.
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RJMEC therefore has the following two recommendations to address CTSAMVM’s lack of access:
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i) CTSAMVM to develop improved information-sharing between the JDB, JMCC, the Parties, and field commanders. Improved coordination should take place between the National Monitors and Liaison Officers; and
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ii) Diplomatic pressure to be applied to ensure that CTSAMVM’s Monitoring and Verification Teams have free access during verification of all units and formations, and to ensure that Parties respond to the list of denials and report back on the actions taken as a result of each case.
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Another key prerequisite for the formation of the RTGoNU is the completion of the work of the Independent Boundaries Commission (IBC) in determining the number of states and the composition of the Council of States. In that regard it is imperative that the IBC continues to work diligently and that it delivers its Report and recommendations in a timely manner.
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Reported incidences of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) remain a great concern. Despite an apparent reduction in reported cases, SGBV remains a serious concern and needs to be urgently addressed. RJMEC renews its call on the Parties to the Agreement to adhere to their obligations and refrain from all acts and forms of SGBV and ensure protection and safety of women in areas under their control. It also recommends that the fight against SGBV be made a priority. RJMEC also welcomes the launching of the SSPDF’s Action Plan to counter SGBV and encourages other parties to do the same.
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The National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) has completed work on the Constitutional Amendment Bill and is working on the Political Parties Act and the Security laws. Although the Amendment Bill, which incorporates the R-ARCSS into South Sudan’s transitional Constitution, was submitted to the Minister of Justice more than two months ago, it is yet to be ratified by the Transitional National Legislative Assembly and assented to by the President. Failure to ratify the Amendment Bill could adversely impact the formation of the RTGONU. In that regard RJMEC urgently calls for its ratification and assent.
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Also of concern has been the lack of capacity within the Agreement mechanisms and institutions. This has resulted in delays in undertaking some key tasks, such as the development of training syllabuses for the unified forces. It is important to note that: (i) the level of training and professional expertise within the military wing of the various parties vary widely and are sometimes inadequate; (ii) experience in operational and logistics planning is lacking; and (iii) subject matter expertise within the mechanisms is sorely lacking.
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In an effort to bridge these gaps within the security mechanisms and to allow for the solid planning for cantonment and the training of a unified army, RJMEC recommends that IGAD member countries make available security experts to assist in the work of the mechanisms on a short-term basis. For its part, RJMEC is in the process of recruiting two security experts who can provide assistance in that regard. However, additional expertise is required.
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Last but not least, one of the key setbacks observed to the implementation of the Pre- Transitional tasks has been the unavailability of financial resources. In that regard, RJMEC welcomes the Government’s commitment to avail US $100 million to the NPTC. It is therefore critically important that these resources be made available in a timely and predictable manner to allow all Agreement institutions and mechanisms to become fully operational and deliver on their mandate.
- Your Excellency, the Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers
- Your Excellencies, Members of the Council
- Your Excellency, IGAD Executive Secretary
- Your Excellency, IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan
- Hon. Ministers,
- Your Excellencies,
- Ladies and Gentlemen,
1. It is my honour to address this Council today, andI thank you for convening this timely meeting.
2. RJMEC has been monitoring progress of the Pre-Transitional period, which unfortunately has not been implemented according to the Agreement timelines.
3. In our assessment report on the status of the implementation of the Pre-Transitional tasks presented to your Excellencies and the Parties, we determined that out of 59 key tasks, only 27 had been completed, 17 were still ongoing while 15 are pending.
4. The critical pending tasks include cantonment, training, unification and deployment of forces, the reconstitution of the DDR Commission, as well as determination of the number and boundaries of States and the restructuring and composition of the Council of States.
5. Accordingly, I appealed to the leadership of the Parties to urgently meet and take an honest assessment of the status of the implementation of the Peace Agreement and agree on the best course of action.
6. I also wrote to the IGAD leadership requesting them to urgently convene an extra-ordinary summit and council meeting to take stock of the status of implementation of the Revitalized Agreement, engage the South Sudanese parties and stakeholders, and make a determination on the best way forward.
7. As you are aware, last week the Parties to the Agreement met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, under the auspices of the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan.
8. Following extensive deliberations, the Parties to the Agreement resolved that the Pre-Transitional period should be extended for six months, effective 12thMay 2019, to allow for the implementation of critical pending tasks.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
9. In the circumstances, I welcome the Parties’ request for a 6 month extension. I note that this extension was necessitated by the failure to implement critical agreed tasks in accordance with the timelines of the Peace Agreement, and therefore urge this Council to consider the request, and take concrete steps to ensure that the Parties implement the Agreement in letter and spirit.
10. Our focus should now fall squarely on the leadership of the Parties to demonstrate clear political will and commitment to make sure that the security-related institutions and mechanisms of the Agreement deliver. As resolved by the Parties, the most critical determinant for the formation of the RTGoNU is the unification of forces.
11. Broken down further, their unification involves the cantonment, disarmament, screening, demobilization, selection, joint training, and deployment of forces. These are now matters of the highest priority.
12. I also welcome the Parties’ request for IGAD’s Heads of State and Government to convene regular face-to-face meetings of the top leadership of the Parties to the R-ARCSS to review the status of implementation of the Agreement.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
13. There are key challenges facing the effective implementation of the Agreement which include financial constraints, slow dissemination, trust deficit, capacity gaps within the various security mechanisms, coordination gaps as well as inadequate support by partners.
14. In view of this, there is need to take proactive steps and measures to address the aforementioned challenges to ensure effective implementation of the Agreement.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
15. I wish to submit RJMEC’s recommendations as follows:
a. The DDR Commission to be reconstituted without any further delay;
b. ITGoNU to disburse the funds pledged to the NPTC without any delay;
c. The regional and international community to extend additional support for the implementation of the Peace Agreement;
d. The NPTC to establish clear deadlines for the implementation of tasks that do not require funding;
e. The immediate demilitarization of civilian centres;
f. IGAD Member States and International Partners to second experts to support the various security mechanisms including JDB, JTSC, JMCC, and SDSR; and
g. The Independent Boundaries Commission to expedite its work and submit its report.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
16. The trust and confidence nurtured over the last 8 months facilitated a consensus that the Pre-Transitional period be extended to enable the full implementation of agreed tasks. This must now be consolidated. I again urge this Council to endorse the request for the 6 month extension of the Pre-Transitional period.
17. In conclusion, I must say that success in the coming period, especially the effective implementation of the security arrangements, will create a positive environment for refugees and IDPs to return home.
I wish the Council fruitful deliberations.
I thank you.
-Your Excellency,the Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers,
- Your Excellency,the Chairperson of the African Union Commission,
- Your Excellencies,Members of the Council,
- Your Excellency,IGAD Executive Secretary,
- Your Excellency,IGAD Special Envoy for SouthSudan
- Honorable Ministers,
- Your Excellencies,
- Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your Excellency the Chairman
1. I thank you for inviting me to address the 66th Extra-Ordinary Session of the IGAD Council of Ministers. As the newly appointed Acting Chairperson of JMEC, I feel honored to continue with the passionate work of H.E. Festus Mogae, former President of the Republic of Botswana, and former Chairperson of JMEC.
2. His Excellency’s recommendation and support of the revitalization of the Peace Agreement was a watershed moment for the peace process in South Sudan. However, the level of success could not have been achieved without the support of this Council.
Excellences, Ladies and Gentlemen,
3. I am pleased to report that there has been significant progress in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, and the Parties to the Agreement have participated in a series of confidence building measures. JMEC believes that the momentum can be maintained. However, we would like to observe this is only but the beginning of the long road in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
4. Key developments have already started taking place, including the ratification of the revitalized Peace Agreement by the Parties and the Transitional National Legislature. Nomination of the parties’ and stakeholders’ representatives to the various Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms have been received and some have been either established or reconstituted.
5.The National Pre-Transition Committee (NPTC) has been established and is operational. The National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) and the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Monitoring and Verification Mechanisms (CTSAMVM) have been reconstituted and both have embarked on implementing their mandates.
6. This amounts to impressive progress in terms of trust- and confidence-building. I commend H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit and other political leaders of South Sudan for what they have achieved to date and urge them to sustain their commitment and the spirit of collaboration and cooperation as exhibited thus far.
7. I further commend the Parties who have released prisoners of war and/or political detainees pursuant to the spirit of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. I appeal to the Parties who have not yet done so to ensure that all prisoners of war and political detainees are released immediately.
Excellences, Ladies and Gentlemen,
8. Even as we applaud the progress made so far, there are key targets required by the R-ARCSS Implementation Matrix that are yet to be achieved.
9. For example, key steps leading to the unification of the armed forces, and which were required to be undertaken during the Pre- Transitional Period, such as disengagement, separation, and cantonment of all the forces of the warring parties are yet to be implemented.
10. Furthermore, the establishment of Independent Boundaries Commission and the Technical Boundaries Committee, the formation of Joint Defense Board, and reconstitution of the Joint Military Ceasefire Commission, are yet to take place. In particular, we call on the regional guarantors and international partners who have not nominated their representatives to the organizations of the IBC and TBC to do so urgently, as stipulated in the R-ARCSS.
11.As part of its mandate, JMEC has publicly issued three implementation status reports. The reports provide details on activities which have been implemented, those that are pending, and offers recommendations on remedial actions necessary to expedite the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement in the agreed timeline.
12.I am also happy to inform this Council that the first meeting for the reconstitution of JMEC is scheduled for Monday November 19, 2018 here in Addis Ababa. Subsequent meetings of RJMEC will be convened in Juba.
Excellences, Ladies and Gentlemen,
13.I wish to conclude with the following recommendations for the kind consideration by this Council:
• First, it is critical for the Parties and stakeholders to adhere to the timely implementation of its provisions. Therefore, the Council needs to consider appealing to the responsible Parties and actors to expedite the implementation of all aspects of the Agreement;
• Second, I appeal to the Council to urge the Parties to show their commitment to gender parity by ensuring that the required levels of women’s representation is respected. To date, the gender provision in Agreement Institutions has not been adhered to.
• Third, considering the current resource constraints in South Sudan, I urge that this Council sustains its diplomatic engagement with the AU, the UN, international partners and Friends of South Sudan and appeal for the technical and financial support necessary for the implementation of the R- ARCSS;
• Fourth, that this Council considers providing political guidance in the establishment of the Independent Boundaries Commission and the Technical Boundaries Committee, which have not yet been established and are running out of time.
• Last but not least, this Council needs to prevail upon the South Sudanese stakeholders who are not signatory to the Revitalized Agreement to join in its implementation.
14. In conclusion, I reiterate my appreciation to this Council for delivering the long-awaited framework for peace in the Republic of South Sudan. In particular I recognize the role played by IGAD Heads of State and Government, and the IGAD Special Envoy for steering the revitalization process to its conclusion.
15. I also appreciate the goodwill and support from all regional and international partners and Friends of South Sudan for their solidarity with IGAD and South Sudan, and for the sustained efforts to revitalize the 2015 Peace Agreement.
16. Although the success of the revitalized 2018 peace agreement lies with all of us, ultimately the onus of its implementation rests with the South Sudanese parties and stakeholders.
God bless you. God bless South Sudan! I thank you.
Your Excellency, Dr Abiy Ahmed, Chairperson of IGAD and Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia;
Your Excellencies, Heads of State and Government of IGAD;
Your Excellency, the Chairperson of the AU Commission;
Your Excellency, the Executive Secretary of IGAD;
Honorable Ministers;
Excellencies;
Ladies and Gentlemen;
1. It is my singular honor to address this august body today. This Summit, is particularly important for me, personally, for three main reasons.
a. Firstly, today we are coming to the conclusion of the High-Level Revitalization Forum;
b. Secondly, today will be my last address to your excellencies as the Chairperson of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC);
c. Third, and most importantly, today we hope to begin a new chapter, a renewed opportunity for building lasting peace and stability in the Republic of South Sudan.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
2. As we come to the conclusion of the High-Level Revitalization Forum, allow me to start by congratulating the South Sudanese Parties and Stakeholders, who have been involved in this process for the last fifteen (15) months.
3. Allow me also, to commend the IGAD Council of Ministers, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, the High-Level Facilitators, and the Mediators of the Khartoum phase of the HLRF, for their role and contribution that has made this process a success.
4. In particular, I want to acknowledge the contribution of my staff, the JMEC members of the HLRF taskforce, without whom this progress may not have been achieved as timeously as has been the case.
5. The HLRF process has come a long way, starting from our internal deliberations within JMEC culminating in my recommendation and the historic decision taken, by this Assembly during its 31st Extra-Ordinary Summit on 12th June 2017 to convene the Forum.
6. This process has taken us to different capitals of the region and beyond, and has endured many challenges, but most importantly it has registered remarkable successes, notably;
a. the Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access (CoHA) signed in December 2017 here in Addis Ababa;
b. the various agreed texts, initialed by the Parties here in Addis Ababa;
c. the different bridging proposals developed by the Facilitators, that helped the parties to narrow areas of disagreement;
d. the face-to-face meetings between President Salva Kiir and Dr. Riek Machar held here in Addis Ababa, at Khartoum and at Entebbe;
e. the Khartoum Declaration of Permanent Ceasefire, of June 27, 2018;
f. the agreements on the outstanding governance and security arrangements signed in Khartoum; and
g. finally, the revitalized ARCSS initialed in Khartoum on August 28, 2018.
7. It important to underline that the HLRF process has afforded all the parties and stakeholders every opportunity, to make their case and reach compromises. The outcome we are witnessing today is therefore a reflection of a thorough and inclusive process.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
8. On a personal note, I believe that by now, your Excellencies have received my letter of intention to step down as the Chairperson of JMEC at the end of this month. I do so with a sense of gratitude and indebtedness to you, but also of pride.
9. I am proud of the many challenges we collectively overcame as JMEC members in discharging our mandate over the last two years and eight months.
10. When I was appointed Chairperson of JMEC in November 2015, I was excited because I saw it as an opportunity to make a contribution, however modest, to help this youngest African nation to end what is clearly a senseless conflict, and to work with them to build a lasting peace.
11. My understanding was that, having signed the Agreement the parties were committed to peace, and were willing to implement the agreement.
12. My role, as I understood then, would be to monitor, evaluate, report on progress or lack thereof to IGAD, AU and UN Security Council, and recommend remedial measures to the implementer - the Transitional Government of National Unity (TGoNU). But I was wrong.
13. From day one, I found myself having to mediate between the Parties and persuade and cajole them to implement every single provision of the Agreement, sometimes involving fresh negotiations. There was also a mistaken impression on the part of some, that I was to enforce the implementation of the Agreement.
14. Nonetheless, some progress was made, particularly in establishing institutions which will form a foundation for the implementation of the revitalized Agreement.
15. I am also proud, that we recommended the revitalization of the ARCSS 2015 and today we conclude with a more inclusive peace agreement. This revitalized agreement, if fully implemented, promises sustainable peace and prosperity in the Republic of South Sudan.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
16. I owe much gratitude to your Excellencies, the leaders of IGAD for entrusting me with this noble responsibility, and for the trust and confidence reposed on me and support extended during my time as JMEC Chairperson.
17. I am also very grateful to all JMEC members, the regional and international partners and friends of JMEC, for their support and cooperation.
18. In addition, I thank the JMEC staff and secretariat, including the partners supporting JMECs operations and logistics, for making my work possible.
19. I leave behind a viable JMEC Secretariat, well-equipped and poised, to effectively discharge its responsibility. This has been demonstrated by their role as the core of the Special Envoy’s Task Force for the High Level Revitalization Forum.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
20. As I conclude, it is my earnest hope that the signing of the revitalized peace agreement will herald a new chapter for the Republic of South Sudan.
21. With a bent knee and cap-in-hand, I appeal to my South Sudanese brothers and sisters, especially the leadership of the Parties, not to squander this opportunity again.
I Thank you.
Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers;
Honorable Ministers, Members of the Council;
IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan;
Your Excellencies Ambassadors;
Ladies and Gentlemen;
1. I thank you very much for this opportunity to address the Council.
2. I thank the Chairperson, IGAD Council of Ministers and Council members, for the leadership and dedication exhibited in the revitalisation process. The people of South Sudan, the region and indeed, the international community very much appreciate your efforts.
3. I further commend H.E Dr. Ismail Wais, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, for his unwavering commitment steering the HLRF process.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
4. Next month, on June 12th, we shall mark one year since the revitalization mandate was given. There is no doubt that significant grounds have been covered.
5. For the first time since July 2016, all the warrying factions in South Sudan are around the table and pursuing dialogue to end their protracted conflict.
6. This is a big milestone for which we must all appreciate the IGAD Assembly of Heads of State and Government for their decision.
7. Todate, we have a comprehensive Agreement on Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitrain Access to which the parties recently recommitted themselves, and we are working closely with CTSAMM to ensure it’s fully implemented. We now have a CTSAMM Board fully reconstituted.
8. Furthermore, the Parties have agreed on the mandate for the revitalized transitional government. They have agreed on a transitional period of 30 months to be preceeded by 120 days’ pre-transition period.
9. They have also agreed on a range of judicial and institutional reforms, on national elections, and some provisions on security arrangments which have all been initialed. This is commendable.
10. However, as we have just heard from Dr. Ismail Wais, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, there are a few areas of contention for which the parties have failed to make progress.
11. This Council’s meeting today is therefore very timely and critical. The Council should reflect on the process so far, and determine how best to help the South Sudanese parties to overcome the current stalemate and to bring the HLRF to a successful conclusion.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
12. The people of South Sudan are yearning for peace now. They are tired of this senseless conflict and cannot afford endless talks without economic recovery and redress to the dire humanitarian situation.
13. I therefore commend the Council for its leadership and decision to put to the Parties a very well considered and thoughtful Bridging Proposal to help them narrow the gaps and make progress towards an agreement.
14. I hope that our South Sudanese brothers and sisters will understand that this bridging proposal was developed upon their own request, and after every opportunity had been given to them to make compromises and reach some form of consensus.
15. Ultimately, it is obvious that non of the parties may be celebrating because such is the nature of dialogue - no one party can get one hundred percent of what they want in a negotiation.
16. Perhaps this is even the more reason to take this bridging proposal as the middle ground in the parties current negotiating positions.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
17. In conclusion, I continue to appeal to the Council to remain resolute, speak with one voice, and to prevail over the intransigent parties to make compromises and accommodate one another.
18. I reiterate my concern over the persistent violations of the Cesssation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA), signed on 21stDecember 2017 by some of the parties with total impunity, and I urge the Council to take necessary steps to hold spoilers accountable.
19. Finally, I thank all JMEC members, our regional and international partners and friends of South Sudan, for their continued support and commitement to the restoration of peace in South Sudan.
Thank you.
Chairperson,
Honourable Ministers,
Your Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen.
It is a pleasure to be here with you all today and I thank you for the kind invitation to brief you. In the short time since we last met a great deal has happened – some good, some not so good but 2018 has got off to a very rapid start, with high expectations for what must be achieved in South Sudan.
The successful convening of the High Level Revitalisation Forum just before Christmas was a huge and welcome step forward. A platform for inclusive, political dialogue has been established through which the challenges that confront us can be addressed and resolved.
I welcome the constructive engagement of all the parties and participants and trust that this will be sustained as we continue to make progress. I must congratulate Ambassador Dr. Ismail Wais, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, for his determination in this matter.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
The first phase of the Forum dealt with the critical issue of bringing violence in South Sudan to an immediate halt. And so, like you all, I am pleased that within four days of convening, a comprehensive Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access was signed by all parties on 21st December 2017.
According to the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring Mechanism (CTSAMM) this new cessation of hostilities has had a generally positive effect on reducing the overall level of violence in the country. However, I am disappointed to note that within weeks of its signing, this agreement has been violated by no less than three of the signatory parties.
Since the 24th of December 2017, when the agreement came into effect, fighting and troop movements have been reported in Central Equatoria, Unity, Jonglei and Upper Nile States, causing further displacement of civilians. CTSAMM quickly published reports on two outbreaks of violence, in Koch and Mundri, apportioning blame to SPLA-IO (Machar) and SPLA-IG respectively. The Chairman of CTSAMM has advised me that a number of other incidents and alleged violations are currently under investigation and I hope to receive further reports very soon.
I condemn the violations and call upon all signatories to the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement to disseminate the terms of the agreement to their subordinate commanders and ensure immediate and consistent compliance.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
In recent days, statements have been made in the media by the Transitional Government of National Unity which, whether intentional or not, have the potential to undermine public confidence in regional and international peacekeeping efforts. In response, I have had cause to publicly demand full support for CTSAMM.
I would like to take this opportunity to remind us all that CTSAMM’s teams are the direct representatives of IGAD and the wider international community for the purpose of verification of ceasefire compliance in South Sudan and as such they deserve full respect and total cooperation.
I would also like to stress that they monitor and report with complete impartiality. Their reports are based on fact, not heresay or rumour, and they apportion blame only when the evidence gathered allows them to do so. There is always room for improvement in the management of their operations but it is deeply regretable that anyone should seek to undermine their integrity and commitment.
This week CTSAMM has conducted a workshop here in Addis Ababa with all the signatories, to put in place the practical mechanisms and cooperation required to deliver and enforce this cessation of hostilities agreement.
I commend CTSAMM for taking the lead on this and all the signatories for their participation. Furthermore, I urge the parties to cooperate fully under the terms of the Agreement so as to ensure unhindered access to the monitoring and verification teams in the field.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
As we begin this new year, I remain firmly of the belief that the revitalisation process provides us all with the most effective platform upon which to confront and resolve the severe security, governance, economic and humanitarian crises that continue to overwhelm South Sudan.
The Forum will convene again on 5th February and will continue its systematic review and invigoration of the Peace Agreement. It is beholden upon us all to keep our faith in this process and support it with all the resources at our disposal.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
The speed and alacrity with which some parties and individuals violated the cessation of hostilities agreement forces us all to confront, in much greater detail, the key issue of compliance.
We cannot stand by as South Sudanese leaders sign an agreement one day and authorise or allow its violation with impunity the next.
For the revitalisation process to be successful there must be a clear understanding among all South Sudanese leaders of the consequences of non-compliance and the determination of IGAD to ensure that agreements are complied with.
Articles 14.2 and 14.3 of the current cessation of hostilities agreement provide that the Chairperson of JMEC shall report any serious breaches to the TGoNU, IGAD, AU Peace and Security Council and UN Security Council for their action.
The actions refered to may include the measures decided by the 28th Extraordinary Summit of the IGAD Heads of State and Government, issued on 7th November 2014, namely:
The enactment of asset freezes
The enactment of regional travel bans, and,
The denial of the supply of arms and ammunition, and any other material that could be used in war.
It is now time to revisit the range of practical measures that can be applied in earnest to those who refuse to take this process seriously. We must, with one voice, make clear the consequences to be faced by those who wilfully violate, spoil or derail the Peace Agreement.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
Briefly, on other matters, I can report that:
The National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) continues to work diligently and expeditiously. We understand that the Constitutional Amendment Bill, submitted to the Minister of Justice back in April last year, is finally approved by the Council of Ministers but is yet to be tabled in the Transitional National Legislative Assembly for ratification.
Five security sector amendment bills were completed and submitted to the Minister of Justice two days ago, on 25th January, 2018. The NCAC is already in the process of reviewing the National Elections Act and Political Parties Act and has received submissions from parties and stakeholders which are now under consideration.
The humanitarian situation has seen very little improvement in recent months. Numbers of refugees and displaced persons remain at 4.1 million and UN-OCHA estimates that food shortages will leave around 5.1 million people unable to feed themselves properly by April.
Despite the November Presidential decree and the new Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, we await evidence of a significant improvement to humanitarian access around the country. In 2017 in South Sudan, there were 1,159 recorded humanitarian access incidents and 28 aid workers were killed. This is disgraceful. The High Level Humanitarian Oversight Committee meeting, anticipated since October, has still not taken place and as such the radical improvements needed in 2018 are nowhere in sight.
Improvements in economic stability in South Sudan have stalled. Annual inflation still hovers around 100 per cent and the exchange rate has started to weaken again after a period of stability. Payment of significant arrears in transfers to Sudan will require new borrowing if increased deficits and inflation are to be avoided.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
As I said at the beginning, 2018 is full of expectation for South Sudan. Ultimate responsibility for the direction that the country takes lies with the Government and the parties, but IGAD, supported by the wider international community, has a critical role to play.
It is essential that IGAD remains engaged, committed and focused throughout the revitalisation process, so that the reinforcing and reassuring support of the African Union and the United Nations can be brought to bear effectively and efficiently. Together, we have to help the South Sudanese leaders find and sustain the spirit of compromise and engagement that will deliver long term peace and stability.
I urge this Council to maintain a unified approach, demonstrate One Voice, challenge those who peddle self-interest, and decide the application of real measures against those who violate the Agreement.
The IGAD Revitalisation Forum is a watershed and offers an opportunity that should not be wasted or squandered. I appeal to IGAD to be resolute, without fear or favour, in their determination to ensure its success.
I thank you.
Chairperson,
Honourable Ministers,
Your Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen.
1. Thank you for your kind invitation to brief you all today. It is an important meeting as we look to end the year on a positive note for South Sudan.
2. I would like to begin by commending the IGAD Council of Ministers for your leadership at this critical time and for your commitment to advancing peace in South Sudan through the mandate given to you by the IGAD Heads of State and Government to urgently convene a High Level Revitalisation Forum. I would also like to congratulate Ambassador Dr. Ismail Wais, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, for his determined approach to this complex and difficult process.
3. Your meeting here today is yet another milestone in the revitalization process that has been six months in the making. The end of the beginning, if you will. It is a display of collective commitment that will reassure the people of South Sudan of your determination to address their desire for peace and stability.
4. As I have said before, the Peace Agreement can recover from the turmoil of the past eighteen months, but for this to happen we must first take stock of the current situation, review progress to date and identify the key challenges that restrain comprehensive implementation of the Agreement. Of particular note, we must address the violations of the Permanent Ceasefire, lack of accountability for spoilers and violators, slippage in the implementation timelines, a lack of dedicated funding to the implementation of Peace Agreement, and the need for inclusive governance arrangements.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
5. At my last meeting with H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, the Prime Minister of Ethiopia and Chairperson of IGAD, I briefed him on recent JMEC engagements and activities and our support to the IGAD Council of Ministers and the Special Envoy.
6. I reinforced the One Voice message, and the need for the region to approach revitalisation unified and with strength of purpose. Collectively, it is crtitical that the IGAD Heads of State and Government prevail over the South Sudanese leadership to rethink the current trajectory of the country and take the necessary steps to restore peace and inclusive governance.
7. I also shared with the Prime Minister my priorities for the revitalisation process – priorities required to get the Peace Agreement back on track. I underlined my hope that the revitalisation process will achieve the following:
a. A cessation of all hostilities and a renegotiated permanent ceasefire that includes all armed groups;
b. An inclusive political process which brings together all Parties and estranged groups;
c. Revised Transitional Security Arrangements and timelines with robust verification and enforcement mechanisms;
d. An overall enforcement mechanism that includes accountability measures for spoilers and violators;
e. Clear measures to address the current dire humanitarian situation and facilitate eventual voluntary return of internally displaced persons and repatriation of refugees;
f. Specific reforms that ensure the conduct of credible, free and fair elections at the end of a transitional period;
g. And finally, dedicated funding for implementation of the revitalised Peace Agreement.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
8. Over the past nine months we have consistently posed three key questions that have coalesced our thinking – how do we stop the fighting, how do we stop people starving and how do we restore inclusivity to the implementation of the Agreement? In combination with our One Voice message, these thoughts have played their part in leading to this Forum.
9. In parallel, the JMEC Working Committees have carefully assessed implementation of the Peace Agreement and the JMEC evaluation report, delivered to you all two months ago, clearly demonstrates the necessity for revitalisation.
10. Briefly, I should like to reiterate to you some of the principal observations and recommendations from our report:
a. Observations:
i. The political, security, humanitarian and economic situation in South Sudan remains precarious and not conducive for the full implementation of the Peace Agreement.
ii. The renewed conflict since July 2016 and the escalation of armed violence, the flight of key opposition figures and the emergence of new armed and political opposition has undermined the credibility of the implementation of the Peace Agreement.
iii. Continued conflict exacerbates a worsening economic and humanitarian situation and is an impediment to inclusive political, social and economic progress in the country.
iv. Gross violations of human rights and international humanitarian law continue unabated and access to humanitarian relief continues to be inconsistent.
v. Since July 2016 there have been new political developments, including splits within some Parties to the Agreement and the flight of Dr. Riek Machar and other key opposition leaders, which has undermined inclusive implementation of the Peace Agreement and the credibility of the current peace process.
vi. The TGoNU has faced a number of impediments to implementation including financial constraints, weak technical capacity and a lack of effective coordination, particularly in cases where implementation requires cooperation across ministries. But it is also evident that insufficient political commitment and poor prioritisation is holding progress back.
vii. The continued lack of accountability and prevailing impunity undermines efforts towards reconciliation, healing and recovery.
viii. Furthermore, the governance reforms prescribed in the Peace Agreement are undermined by the non-implementation of key provisions of the Peace Agreement, including those in Chapter Six. A Permanent Constitution is a pre-requisite for reforms including the holding of elections at the end of the Transitional Period.
b. Recommendations:
i. All Parties to the Agreement and estranged groups must continue to be pursuaded to embrace and participate genuinely in the revitalisation process.
ii. The IGAD High-Level Revitalisation Forum must agree on specific steps and reforms to be implemented within prescribed timelines as a pre-condition for fair and democratic elections at the end of the Transitional Period.
iii. There must be an immediate and permanent ceasefire and an end to all forms of violence.
iv. Free and unhindered humanitarian access and the security of all major corridors and trading routes should be ensured.
v. The enactment of the Constitutional Amendment Bill (2017) should be expedited and the Permanent Constitution making process should commence immediately.
vi. IGAD, in collaboration with the AU and the UN, should put in place mechanisms to enforce compliance.
vii. The AU and the TGoNU should resolve issues surrounding the establishment of the Hybrid Court for South Sudan and provide relevant support to the comprehensive transitional justice and accountability efforts in South Sudan. The TGoNU should also establish all other transitional justice institutions within the timeframe provided in the Agreement.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
11. I would like to say that I am very impressed by the quality of work produced by the Special Envoy and the Taskforce. I have now seen the range of views and perspectives from our colleagues in the TGoNU and all other stakeholders as contained in the pre-Forum consultation report. Within the proposals submitted there will without doubt be some valuable inputs that will give the Peace Agreement a new lease of life and restore hope to the people of South Sudan.
12. Throughout this revitalisation process, I call upon us all to remain focused on the desperate plight of the people of South Sudan. For them, we must stop the fighting, end the violence, deal with criminality, prevent sexual and human rights abuses, reduce human suffering and address the economic crisis. The consequences of failure do not bear thinking about.
13. Progress of any sort is only possible within a peaceful and secure environment. It is simply not possible to overstate the fundamental necessity for an immediate cessation of all hostilities. Without that, we stand no chance of stemming the tide of displacement, enabling unhindered delivery of aid to those in need or contemplating the return of IDPs and refugees to their homes.
14. I reiterate my call to all South Sudanese stakeholders that, as they come to the table in search of a sustainable political solution, they must renounce violence and demonstrate political will to compromise and accommodate one another.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
15. I hope that this Council will remain united under one voice and encourage the South Sudanese leadership to seize this opportunity to restore the Peace Agreement to centre stage. I appeal to IGAD to be resolute, without fear or favour, in their determination to ensure the success of the revitalisation forum. This is a huge opportunity that cannot be wasted or squandered.
16. I should also like to underline the important role to be played by the international community, especially the African Union and the United Nations, in support of this IGAD-led process.
17. To conclude, I take this opportunity to thank the TGoNU, the South Sudanese stakeholders, IGAD, AU, Troika, EU, China, the UN, UNMISS, and the International Partners and Friends of South Sudan for their commitment and continued support, and appeal for full support from everyone for this revitalisation process.
18. Finally I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May God bless us all and continue to guide us in the relentless pursuit of peace in South Sudan.
Chairperson, Honourable Ministers, Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen.
- Welcome to Juba and thank you for your kind invitation to me to brief you all again today.
- I would like to begin by commending IGAD for their leadership at this critical time and reiterating JMEC’s full support for the IGAD initiative to convene a High Level Revitalisation Forum of the Implementation of the Peace Agreement. Your meeting here today is an important step in the revitalization process and a display of collective commitment that will reassure the people of South Sudan of our determination to address their desire for peace and stability.
- The Peace Agreement can recover from the turmoil of the past twelve months, but to do so we must take stock of the current situation, review progress to date and identify the key challenges that restrain comprehensive implementation of the Agreement, especially the restoration of the ceasefire.
- I have talked about seizing this moment of opportunity and we firmly believe that a resolute and unified approach by IGAD, the African Union, the UN and the international community, and with reasonable and peaceful cooperation of the South Sudanese leaders, we can recover lost ground and restore hope to the people of South Sudan.
- At our last meeting earlier this month, I outlined our suggestion for a process that would aid the successful convening of the Forum. With the recent appointment of your Special Envoy, Ambassador Ismail Wais, and with the support of the IGAD Secretariat and JMEC, we are now in the process of implementing the activities outlined in the indicative matrix.
- Furthermore, alongside constant dialogue with the IGAD Special Envoy, I have completed a comprehensive first round of consultations with H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit, H.E. the First Vice President General Taban Deng Gai, the TGoNU, and JMEC representatives from the South Sudanese stakeholders, regional guarantors and the international community. Whilst there remains considerable detail to be resolved, there is agreement across the board of the importance of this Forum; your Forum, Honourable Ministers.
- I also take note of the various regional initiatives on South Sudan aimed at restoring peace and stability in the country. I reiterate the need to align all our actions and strategies to ensure that all initiatives compliment the implementation of the Peace Agreement.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
- Our task and its objectives remain as we have discussed previously – “to convene a High-level Revitalization Forum of the Parties to the Agreement, including estranged groups, to discuss concrete measures to 1) restore the permanent ceasefire, 2) return to full implementation of the Peace Agreement and 3) develop a revised and realistic timeline and implementation schedule towards democratic elections at the end of the transition period”.
- Since March we have consistently posed three key questions that have coalesced our thinking – how do we stop the fighting, how do we stop people dying of starvation and how do we restore inclusivity to the implementation of the Agreement? In combination with our One Voice message, these thoughts have played their part in leading to this Forum.
- In my brief today, however, I would like to focus on the central questions that lie at the heart of the Forum’s mandate. But before I do that, there are some essential principles that bear reiteration and reinforcement.
- First is the principle of revitalisation itself. JMEC maintains that the Peace Agreement remains an important and viable means through which to deliver a sustainable peace. The Peace Agreement is extant and eminently worthy of revitalisation. However all Parties must be committed to this objective.
- Second, revitalisation of the Agreement will be exactly that – the reinvigoration, re-energising and re-engagement of the 2015 Peace Agreement. The Forum should examine progress made in implementing the Peace Agreement in the context of the current situation, determine impediments to further progress and seek concrete proposals to resolve those impediments.
- The revitalisation process should address the current political realities in South Sudan and this Forum must focus on current issues.
- Third is the principle of inclusivity. It is reasonable and fair to acknowledge that the turmoil of the last year has led to the disengagement of some Parties to the Agreement, and the emergence of groups whose interests are relevant to the implementation of the Peace Agreement.
- It is therefore equally fair and reasonable for the revitalisation process to seek ways in which key actors can be identified and engaged or re-engaged in the interest of successfully achieving our objectives, most particularly the restoration of the Permanent Ceasefire.
- Lastly, the principle of peace and compromise. Progress of any sort is only possible within a peaceful and secure environment. All South Sudanese leaders must renounce violence, lay down their weapons and come to the table willing to seek a political solution.
- Ultimately, the success of this process will require a willingness on the part of the Parties to the Agreement and all estranged and other groups to compromise and accommodate one another politically.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
- I want to turn now to the questions I believe we must consider as we build towards the High Level Revitalisation Forum.
- What are the key relevant issues that the Forum must address?
- How do we ensure the Forum remains focused on its mandate?
- Who are the necessary participants whose attendance is critical to the
achievement of our goals?
- Where should the Forum be held?
- How do we ensure compliance with the Forum’s resolutions?
- I raise these questions as a means to focus our debate on relevant matters that directly affect a successful outcome of the Forum. There will be a wide range of opinion and it will be for IGAD to determine the best way forward.
- Itissimplynotpossibletooverstate,forexample,thefundamentalnecessity to restore the Permanent Ceasefire in our quest to stem the tide of refugees, enable unfettered delivery of aid to those in need within the country and contemplate returning IDPs and refugees to their homes. And that is before we touch on the provisions and requirements of the Peace Agreement.
- I commend the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management for the positive work it has done so far in the process of reviewing its five- year strategic plan and I hope the strategy will be properly aligned with Chapter Three of the Agreement. This is particularly important as key aspects of Chapter 3 still remain untouched.
- Furthermore, in order to address some of the current critical issues, JMEC hosted a Humanitarian Discussion Forum for all humanitarian actors, TGoNU and international partners. We hope that the outcome of this forum will help to improve the effective delivery of humanitarian relief to the vast number of people in need of help.
- TheurgentrestorationofthePermanentCeasefireisalsonecessaryforany meaningful progress to be made in pursuing economic stability and growth within the country. Implementation of Chapter Four of the Agreement has been severely constrained by the ongoing conflict combined with capacity and technical limitations.
- In the meantime the economic situation continues to deteriorate with high inflation levels, a grossly devalued currency and limited prospects for increasing non-oil revenues, which has negatively impacted budget execution.
- We have consistently recognized the progress that has been made under Chapter One, particularly with regard to the Transitional Government for National Unity (TGoNU) and the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA). However, inclusive representation and gender balance within the TGoNU and National Assembly has not yet been fully achieved and a huge number of other institutions described in Chapter One have yet to be reconstituted.
- Afteraslowstart,throughnofaultoftheirown,theNationalConstitutional Amendment Committee has made quick and efficient progress and has delivered a draft Amendment Bill to the Government for further processing. However, the critical process of incorporating the Agreement into the Transitional Constitution has stalled as the Amendment Bill has not yet been delivered by the TGoNU to the TNLA.
- ChapterFivemandatestheestablishmentoftransitionaljusticemechanisms that address accountability, reconciliation and healing as well as the provision of reparations for victims of violations. Progress in implementation of this chapter is negligible. A restoration of the permanent ceasefire is necessary to facilitate a conducive environment for healing and reconciliation to take place.
- The process of permanent constitution-making envisaged in Chapter Six was expected to have been completed within eighteen months of the signing of the Peace Agreement but has not even begun. This is a critical process for the sustainability of peace and democratization in the Republic of South Sudan.
- Finally, in Chapter Two, however, we are seeing a concerted effort within the Strategic Defence Security Review Board, Joint Military Ceasefire Commission, Joint Operations Centre and Joint Integrated Police to engage and make progress and this has been accompanied by a commitment of funding from the TGoNU. There is a long way to go but the Insitutions are active and cooperative.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
- A moment of opportunity has arisen and, on behalf of the long suffering people of South Sudan, I urge us all to seize it. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and receiving your guidance on the best possible steps to make this Forum achieve its desired outcomes.
- To date the Peace Agreement has stalled and stuttered quite enough. It is time to insist that we restore the Agreement to centre stage and drive as one towards its comprehensive implementation.
- To conclude, I take this opportunity to thank the TGoNU, South Sudanese stakeholders, IGAD, AU, Troika, EU, China, the UN, UNMISS, and the International Partners and Friends of South Sudan for their commitment and continued support, and appeal for full support from everyone for this revitalisation process.
- May God bless us all and continue to guide us in the relentless pursuit of peace.
Your Excellency, Hailemariam Desalegn, Chairperson of the IGAD and Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia,
Your Excellency, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda,
Your Excellency, Omar Hassan al Bashir, President of the Republic of Sudan,
Your Excellency, Uhuru Kenyatta, President of the Republic of Kenya,
Your Excellency, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia,
Your Excellency, Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, President of the Republic of Djibouti,
Your Excellency, General Taban Deng Gai, First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan,
Your Excellency, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission;
Your Excellency, David Shearer, Special Representative of the Secretary General of the United Nations in the Republic of South Sudan;
Your Excellency, Mahboub M. Maalim, Executive Secretary of IGAD,
Your Excellencies, Special Envoys,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.
I welcome this very timely and important IGAD Extraordinary Summit on South Sudan. As you may recall, Your Excellencies, we are now into the 22nd month since the signing of the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (ARCSS).
- After nearly eight months of delay, the Transitional Government of National Unity was formed on the 29th April 2016. This means that we are now fourteen months into the Transitional Period, and have barely sixteen months left to October 2018 – the end of the Transitional Period.
- Regrettably, the citizens of the Republic of South Sudan are yet to enjoy the peace that the implementation of the Peace Agreement was expected to deliver. In this regard, I have submitted a detailed quarterly report for the period February to April 2017, that summarizes JMEC’s assessment of the status of the implementation of the Peace Agreement. I will however recap our journey to this point, and highlight the issues that demand your attention and action.
Your Excellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen;
- The return of the designated First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny on 26th April 2016 and the subsequent formation of the Transitional Government of National Unity (TGoNU) were key milestones in the implementation of the Agreement. Many of the Transitional Agreement Institutions and Implementation Mechanisms had also been established and operationalized to coordinate these efforts.
- Unfortunately, disagreements between H.E Salva Kiir Mayardit, the President and his then First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny and the unwillingness by the Parties to make compromises overshadowed the first few months of the TGoNU.
- In July 2016, fighting broke out at the Presidential Palace in Juba (J1) between forces loyal to the President and those loyal to the former First Vice President.
- The July fighting and its aftermath, which was the worst incident of violation of the permanent ceasefire, reversed the progress that had been made in the implementation of the Agreement. It led to the flight from Juba of the then First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny with many of his followers and key opposition members from the TGoNU.
- The replacement of Dr. Machar by his former chief negotiator General Taban Deng Gai as First Vice President caused a split in the SPLM/A-IO into two factions. One faction led by General Taban Deng Gai, now cooperating with and participating in the TGoNU, and the other led by the Former First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar Teny still fighting against the government.
Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen;
- Following the IGAD Communique of 5th August 2016, the reconstituted TGoNU continued with implementation of the Peace Agreement, in spite of concern over exclusion of estranged Parties. As JMEC we had hoped that the Parties would quickly resolve their differences and return to full implementation of the Peace Agreement. This has not materialized and now the Parties seem even further apart.
- Today, we are confronted by increased hostilities amongst these Parties, flagrant violations of the ceasefire, the emergence of new opposition and armed groups. The rapidly deteriorating political, security, humanitarian and economic situation in the country has caused unprecedented displacement, famine and growing civilian flight.
Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen;
- While I commend the very good working relationship between H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, the President and H.E. General Taban Deng Gai, the First Vice President and their determination to cooperate; real progress is still lacking, the pace of the implementation of the Peace Agreement has been too slow, and challenges abound.
- Admittedly, over the last several months, JMEC has witnessed some commendable progress in institution building and some reforms:
- Some Agreement Institutions and Transitional Security Arrangements (TSA) mechanisms have been reconstituted and others operationalized;
- The National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) has completed incorporation of provisions of the Peace Agreement into the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan and has embarked on the review of relevant legislation;
- The Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) has been formed and has commenced business;
- The TGoNU has established a High Level Humanitarian Oversight Committee to address impediments faced by humanitarian agencies in delivering assistance. It has also provided subsidies for essential food commodities;
- The TGoNU has also put in place some measures to stabilize the economy and address the fiscal challenges facing the country, including the establishment of a centralised treasury account in the Central Bank, expenditure out of which is determined by an inter-ministerial committee.
- There has been some progress towards cantonment planning, particularly for two sites near Juba. However, effective cantonment of forces requires a cessation of hostilities and restoration of the permanent ceasefire;
- The TGoNU has reported that some components of the Joint Integrated Police (JIP) have been trained and are ready for deployment in due course; and
- Six JMEC Working Committees have been established to work in close consultation with the three TGoNU clusters – Governance, Humanitarian and Service Delivery – to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the various chapters of the Peace Agreement.
Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen;
- It is regrettable that the progress I have mentioned, and good efforts of the TGoNU continue to be overshadowed, and in some cases reversed by the ongoing hostilities.
- The humanitarian condition in the country continues to be precarious, mainly due to the persistence of armed violence in various parts of the country.
- The impact of the war on the civilian population is deeply concerning. Notably, the economic situation continues to worsen as evidenced by rising prices and a sharply depreciated exchange rate. Food production has declined as population displacement persists, putting more pressure on an already fragile economy.
- According to the UN OCHA Humanitarian Bulletin Report of 28 May 2017, 3.7 million South Sudanese have been driven from their homes. Some live in Protection of Civilian sites (PoCs), others are internally displaced, and many more in refugee settlements in neighboring countries. According to the same report, a total of 5.5 million people are food insecure.
- In addition, there are continuing reports of human rights violations including killings, sexual violence, arbitrary arrests and detentions.
- Despite the recent improvements in access to humanitarian assistance, there are still reports of threats and detention of humanitarian aid workers.
- I therefore welcome the recent decision by the governments of the Republic of Sudan and of the Republic of Kenya to open more humanitarian corridors to deliver much-needed aid to the long-suffering people of South Sudan.
Your Excellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen;
- As the main guarantors to the Peace Agreement, Your Excellencies, IGAD should act collectively and decisively, speak with one voice and demand that the leaders of South Sudan end the violence, and pursue a political solution and return to full implementation of the Peace Agreement.
- I therefore expect the Summit to address the following pertinent issues:
- Decide on concrete steps to revitalize implementation of the Peace Agreement;
- Commit to concrete measures to enforce compliance with the ceasefire; and
- Decide on practical ways of addressing the dire humanitarian crisis in the country.
Your Excellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen;
- I recommend the following actions to the Summit:
- convene a High Level Revitalisation Forum for the Parties to the Peace Agreement, including estranged groups, to discuss the restoration of the permanent ceasefire, a return to inclusive implementation, a revised realistic timeline and implementation schedule towards democratic elections at the end of the Transitional Period;
- prior to this High Level Forum, invite other key opposition groups to participate without pre-conditions;
- demand a clear and realistic timeline for the deployment of the Regional Protection Force (RPF) to provide a neutral and secure enviroment for the implementation of the Peace Agreement;
- convene a joint meeting of the Chiefs of Defence Forces of the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) and of the TGoNU, and the UN to discuss all outstanding issues and determine a definitive timeline for full deployment of the RPF;
- decide on specific actions to enforce compliance with the ceasefire to prevent impunity and derailing of the peace process;
- call on the international community to assist South Sudan in its efforts to revive the economy once the Parties return to the full implementation of the Peace Agreement;
- call on the international community to mobilize the requisite resources to address the dire humanitarian situation currently unfolding in South Sudan;
- call on the TGoNU and all groups to ensure unimpeded access to humanitarian agencies; and
- Above all, uphold the One Voice message and align your actions in your collective pursuit of helping the people of South Sudan achieve lasting peace.
I thank you.