OPENING REMARKS
BY
H.E. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE
INTERIM CHAIRPERSON
OF THERECONSTITUTED JOINT
MONITORING & EVALUATION COMMISSION
TO THE
FIRST EXTRAORDINARY RJMEC MEETING
Tuesday, 19 February 2019
JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN
Honourable Ministers,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good morning,
1. I would like to start by welcoming all of you to this first Extraordinary meeting of the RJMEC.
2. My opening remarks this morning will be brief, and will set out how this meeting came to be convened, what its objectives are, and my expectations in that regard.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
3. In the last meeting, I was requested to convene this meeting in view of “the serious financial constraints and other challenges impacting on the smooth implementation of the tasks and activities of the various agreement institutions and mechanisms, to discuss practical ways forward.”
4. There are two main issues to discuss today: funding and security arrangements. In particular, plans and progress regarding cantonment, training, and the unification of forces. In addition, how to expedite the reconstitution of the DDR Commission.
5. Firstly, funding. Over the course of the last few meetings, and in other consultations I have held with the various Agreement institutions and mechanisms, the issue of funding has loomed large in the discussions.
6. Secondly, security arrangements. We are all aware that security is an essential component of the Pre-Transitional period, and therefore understanding the progress of cantonment in particular would be beneficial to all. Are the sites fully designated? What resources are needed for cantonment’s successful and timely completion?
7. Our objective today, therefore, is to bring out into the open the discussions needed to push these questions more substantively towards being answered. Thus, I am very interested to hear what the NPTC and JDB tell us about the answers to some of these questions.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
8. We at RJMEC have long been clear on funding. Our position is that the NPTC and the incumbent TGoNU should take the lead in mobilizing all requisite resources for implementation, establish effective mechanisms for disbursing funds, and support the other mechanisms of the Agreement to carry out their tasks. In this regard, RJMEC continues in its appeal to the partners and friends of South Sudan to support the implementation of the Agreement.
9. However, the more implementation of the peace agreement is owned by the people and government of South Sudan, the greater the chances of its success.
10. I have been equally clear about security arrangements. Ensuring that all the security institutions and mechanisms function in harmony is of critical importance, not least because of the imminent need to unify the forces.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen;
11. I have several expectations for today’s meeting. I expect that the NPTC will set out clearly and concisely what its plans and budget are for the Pre-Transitional Period. I also expect that the JDB will present its strategy and plans for cantonment, training and unification of forces.
12. Finally, I expect that we will have honest and frank conversations in order to address the identified challenges.
Thank you.
The following was delivered by JMEC Acting Chairperson Ambassador Lt. Gen. Augostino Njoroge on 7 November 2018 at a breakfast meeting of the South Sudan Center for Strategic and Policy Studies. The event was arranged to examine the issue of confidence-building and laying the foundations for sustainable peace in South Sudan.
Opening
Since its inception in 2015, JMEC’s role has consisted of monitoring, evaluating, and reporting on the status of implementation of the peace agreement. However, our continuous oversight of the implementation of the agreement and the special deliberations of the six working committees of JMEC, made it clear that there were serious lacunae in the implementation of the agreement.
This is why the then-JMEC Chairperson H.E. Festus Mogae recommended the revitalization of the peace agreement. Accordingly, through exhaustive mapping of the stakeholders and understanding of the failures of 2015, JMEC was able to substantively contribute to the development of the 2018 revitalized agreement which was signed by the parties in September 2018.
JMEC’s opinion is that currently, the political environment has improved to the extent that the revitalized agreement can be implemented in a way which was not possible for the 2015 peace agreement. The commitment of the government and the Parties is stronger now. However, it still requires an ongoing process of confidence- and trust-building measures on the part of all Parties, and also the regional and international stakeholders.
Following are the key points or opportunities that JMEC has identified and recommends.
At the level of South Sudan
1. In addition to the President of South Sudan’s confidence building measures already undertaken, the President as a national leader should continue to constructively engage all stakeholders and Parties to the agreement to ensure that each party fulfils what it agreed to do in signing the revitalized agreement.
2. Together and in a spirit of unity, the President and the leaders of the Opposition should travel throughout the country and advocate for peace and reconciliation to the people of South Sudan.
3. The value of traditional leaders and chiefs must be recognized and factored in to the implementation process through various confidence-building mechanisms.
4. The existing National Dialogue can be instrumental to the implementation process, but it should be genuine and inclusive to serve as a building block in the pursuit of trust building.
5. Traditional South Sudanese conflict resolution mechanisms and inter-tribal dialogue practices should be used to deepen understanding and contribute to the full implementation of the agreement. Academia, researchers and other experienced practitioners should be involved to provide recommendations and examples of best practice.
6. The Parties should collectively show the determination and necessary political will to take action against spoilers from whatever angle they come. There should be alignment of message and action of the Parties to counter forces that seek to disrupt or delay implementation.
7. The Parties should ensure that all the remaining political detainees and prisoners of war are released, and those with criminal cases are given transparent and timely due process.
8. For confidence building purposes, we recommend to officially announce the lifting of state of emergency, to ensure that the political space needed for exercising the individual’s democratic rights and freedom of speech are in place, and the role of a responsible media is duly recognised.
9. The Parties should examine the mistakes of the recent past, draw lessons, and develop early-warning mechanisms to avoid the triggers that lead to the conflict of July 2016.
10. The Church and faith-based leaders, eminent personalities, and civil society, women’s and youth groups, should be given a prominent role in national reconciliation and the confidence-building effort.
11. Lessons on national reconciliation and healing should be drawn from elsewhere on the continent and applied to the South Sudanese context.
At the regional and international level:
12. Regional and international guarantors should give their full support to the implementation of the agreement, including to the agreement institutions, through appropriate political and economic support.
All these measures, if properly implemented will create a conducive political, social, and economic environment for the people of South Sudan, especially refugees and internally displaced, to enjoy the dividends of peace.
The Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan—James Wani Igga ; The UN Deputy SRSG- Mr Moustapha Soumare
The Chairperson of the South Sudan Peace and Reconciliation Commission- Chuol Rambang Luoth; Ambassadors, Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
Good morning! I bring you greetings on behalf of our Chairman His Excellency Festus Mogae.
1. It is an honor to address you all gathered here today as we celebrate the International Day of Peace.
2. Indeed, this day is very timely as we have in recent weeks witnessed the beginning of a new chapter, a renewed opportunity for building lasting peace and stability in the Republic of South Sudan.
3. It has been more than 15 months since the start of the revitalization process, which brought together parties to the Peace Agreement and other estranged groups in pursuing dialogue to end the ongoing conflict.
4. The Process has come a long way, starting from our internal deliberations within JMEC, which resulted in the Chairman recommending to the IGAD Council of Ministers the revitalization of the ARCSS. It is our hope that we can finally see an end to the conflict; one which has undoubtedly divided and destroyed the country.
5. We are confident that the compromises taken were in good faith and that the Parties will work together moving forward. Full compliance to the agreement is very critical to build confidence and provide an enabling environment for the much needed focus on the growth of the economy among other things.
6. We in JMEC are optimistic at this opportunity that has been presented to the People of South Sudan to find lasting peace and emerge from years of conflict to a liberated future.
7. Let’s be clear, there is still a lot of hard work to be done both during the pre-transition and transition periods to make the dream of Peace a lasting reality. This includes but is not limited to the setting up of key Agreement Institutions, the freeing of prisoners of war, cantonment of forces, and the building of a new national army.
8. Now is the time for all the parties to recommit themselves with the same vigor and energy shown during the negotiations to the difficult implementation tasks that lie ahead. The long suffering people of South Sudan deserves no less of a commitment from their leaders.
9. The people long weary of the conflict appear to have thrown their support behind the revitalized agreement. They therefore should not be dissapointed.
10. It is our view that this is the last best chance for a comprehensive peace and the IGAD Council of Ministers should stand ready to deal conclusively with those who would attempt to once again derail the peace and drag the country back into conflict.
11. This must necessarily involve taking swift punitive action against any and all spoilers and violators of the Peace Agreement.
12. The Parties should know that the world is watching with eagerness as to whether they will honor their commitment this time around.
13. The People of South Sudan are watching, the mothers and children who are tired of the suffering are watching, the young people without jobs and struggling to make a living are watching, everyone is watching!
14. As we celebrate the International Day of Peace, may we all embrace the spirit of togetherness and agree that there are no beneficiaries to the conflict.
15. When the country suffers, we are all affected. When the economy struggles to support an already stretched population, we are all affected.
16. When millions of people are living in refugee camps in neighboring countries, we are all affected. Conflict benefits none and erodes the good and hope in all of us.
17. We must not let the gains of the last 15 months go to waste. We must ensure that we allow the children and youth in the country to enjoy the benefits of peace and prosper in the country, celebrating unity in diversity.
18. So let me encourage all of you to take up the responsibility of being an ambassador of peace to everyone that you meet. Let us all be agents of peace for the benefit of all of us.
19. JMEC for its part reiterate its commitment to fully discharge our mandate to vigorously monitor and evaluate implementation of the Reviltalised Agreement.
20. To that end we seek the support of all the stakeholders to work together in pursuing our common goals of having a country unburdened by war and conflict, and contributing to the advancement of a proud and prosperous South Sudan.
God bless you all, God bless the people of South Sudan,
Thank you very much
Representatives from Journalist for Human Rights,
Members of the Fourth Estate,
Distinguished Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen;
Good afternoon!
Let me begin by congratulating all of you for attending this workshop designed to provide you, members of the media with a forum to discuss the ongoing Revitalization process of the ARCSS.
I hope that these two days have given you an opportunity to hear the facts as opposed to opinions and anecdotes. I hope too that you have been provided with the tools to carry out your vital role as the members of the Fourth Estate, to speak to and for the people and tell the truth.
Even as I address you today, the process of revitalizing the ARCSS is proceeding, one step at a time, reaching yet more important milestones since it begun in December 2017.
Substantial progress has been made and continues to be achieved in Khartoum, on outstanding issues concerning Governance, Security and responsibility sharing. The Parties have agreed on representation of women at the highest level. Of the proposed four Vice Presidents, one will be a Woman. Women will also make up thirty- five percent of the National Executive. This is indeed encouraging, that women can play an integral role in the peacebuilding efforts in South Sudan.
I am convinced that the Parties to the conflict will build on this progress, adhere to the signed Agreements and give prominence to the promotion of peace and reconciliation of the peace process.
The Regional Community, the International Community, the Government and people of South Sudan, must not let up for one moment on the progress we have achieved these last months. We must support every effort the government and the people have now taken in the effort of rebuilding this country for future posterity.
Ladies and gentlemen,
We need to continue the dialogue on peace, reaching out to communities to explain the facts of the peace process, discover what they know and dispel rumours and untruths. We must encourage the people to talk about their experiences, fears and expectations. Inclusivity is not simply all the Parties to the Conflict; it is about all the people of South Sudan, rich and poor, young and old alike.
There will be no long term peace without reconciliation and inter- communal integration. In Your reporting, you must be able to ask; What does that mean to a simple woman who has lost her children or to young men who have never known a life without fighting? How will the people come to terms with the awful damage that has afflicted the country for the past five years?
I believe the answers lie with two elements of society, the youth and women. Looking around the hall, I can see that both are well represented here today. I am told that you are also an enthusiastic and questioning audience. It is heartening that we have a media in this country that is adventurous and brave despite the challenges that you face in your profession. A free and open media is vital to any democracy and South Sudan is no exception.
Impartial, fact-based reporting underpins democracy, and ensures transparency in the institutions of government. It encourages the people to question the authorities and seek the truth, for without truth there is no trust.
Ladies and gentlemen,
I hope that these two days have in a way provided the skills and knowledge essential to your vital task of shining the light on the Peace Process, enabling you to explain in layman’s terms the complicated and arcane language of politics and diplomacy.
I urge you to establish and adhere to a level of objective truth and avoid the modern trend of appealing to emotions. Your task is even harder in the era of social media when almost anything can be said and circulated on social media sites like Facebook, WhatsApp and others and be taken for the gospel truth.
I wish all of you the best of luck in your chosen profession, knowing that you have not taken an easy path in life and that your task is vital to the future of this wonderful young country South Sudan.
Finally, I want to thank Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) for partnering with us JMEC in convening this workshop, and to thank all of you for your very active participation.
With these few remarks, it is my pleasure to now declare this workshop officially closed.
God bless You all and may He Bless all the people of South Sudan.
Thank you very much!
The Representative of the Media Authority,
The Representatives from Journalists for Human Rights,
Distinguished guests,
Members of the press,
Ladies and Gentlemen;
Good morning!
Allow me at the outset to start by extending warm greetings from His Excellency Festus Mogae, the chairperson of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission and from the entire leadership of the Commission.
I want to take this opportunity to thank Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) for partnering with JMEC in convening this workshop which I consider to be instrumental for you as representatives of the different media outlets understand your role, in the ongoing efforts to restore peace and inclusive governance in the South Sudan.
As you all know, the implementation of the 2015 peace agreement was undermined by the events of July 2016 and the subsequent expansion of the conflict within South Sudan. New political and military groups emerged and the fighting in the country covered large areas. Additionally, some agreement parties left Juba. As a result of these developments, implementation of the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (ARCSS) was severely compromised both in letter and spirit. JMEC’s evaluation and monitoring reports throughout 2016 captured this sad state of affairs.
Consequently, President Festus Mogae made a recommendation to IGAD to urgently consider measures to get the implementation of the ARCSS back on track. IGAD Heads of State then decided to convene a High Level Revitalization Forum on the 2015 agreement.
The HLRF initiative drew its mandate from the IGAD 31stSummit of the Heads states and governments held on 12th June 2017 in Addis Ababa. The process was spear headed by the IGAD Council of Ministers with facilitation by the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, Dr. Ismail Wais, and his task force composed of Advisors from JMEC and the IGAD Secretariat.
The cardinal objectives of the HLRF were:
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;
Ladies and gentlemen,
As you may be aware, the HLRF has achieved important milestones since its commencement in December of 2017, in Addis Ababa. The Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access was signed on 21st December 2017. Progress was made incrementally on the revitalization of Chapter 1 and 2 of the Agreement and during the Khartoum round of negotiations, agreement was reached on outstanding issues on Security and responsibility sharing.
Ladies and gentlemen and the representatives of the press,
It is our earnest hope that peace will be restored fully to South Sudan and that the fully revitalized Peace Agreement will be comprehensively implemented by the Parties. It is also our expectation that following the signing of the revitalized agreement, the millions of internally displaced South Sudanese and refugees will voluntarily return to their homes and fully participate in the reconstruction of their country.
We at JMEC remain optimistic that at this point in time that parties to the conflict will demonstrate absolute determination and political commitment to bring lasting peace to their motherland, South Sudan and work relentlessly for the peaceful integration of divided communities.
Your coverage of the conflict and the peace process in your various media platforms could be described as double-edged. History shows the media can fuel wars and turn communities against each other. Equally, the media can be agents of peace and reconciliation, counter hate speech, fight impunity and uphold supremacy of the law.
Members of the press,
JMEC calls on you to play a critical role in this endeavour. We urge you to; promote cohesion; build brotherhood and good neighborliness. JMEC wants you to be part of the solution, not part of the problem and above all, hold the signatories of these Agreements accountable. Remind them that South Sudan and indeed the world are watching. Violators of the signed agreements must be known, exposed and held accountable. Only then will the trust of the people in the political leaders be regained and true inclusivity achieved.
I would like to seize this opportunity to urge the government and the opposition to keep the momentum of constructive political engagement that we have so far witnessed during the HLRF process and to bring about lasting peace to South Sudan, which is blessed with huge natural resources and an active population. This window of opportunity which is pivotal to bring South Sudan out of the conflict should not be wasted.
Let the South Sudanese Political actors with the support of the region and the international community say enough is enough to the conflict and lay the foundation for the emergence of South Sudan that enjoys its proper place in the Regional and International arena.
It is my hope, and that of JMEC, that this workshop will strengthen the vital role of the media in the peace-building process in the country.
With these brief remarks, I now declare this workshop officially open.
May God bless you and the people of South Sudan.
Thank you very much.
Dear Participants,
Ladies and Gentlemen;
Good afternoon!
Let me start by congratulating all the participants who attended this very important orientation workshop on the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (ARCSS), the High Level Revitalisation Forum (HLRF), and the Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access (ACoH). I have been fully briefed on the presentations and the fruitful deliberations that you have had as well as the interactive sessions.
I am also informed that the discussions you held have enabled you to know ways and opportunities in which you can now engage in the South Sudan Peace process going forward, in a more inclusive and participatory way.
So much ground has been covered since the Revitalization process begun. This is indeed encouraging. JMEC continues to urge the Parties in the conflict to embrace the spirit of compromise and to resolve all the outstanding issues. It is critical for allparties to fully abide by the Agreements they have signed to date, including to the Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access of December 2017 (ACoH) and particularly refrain from all acts of violence.
Above all, you the young people, should be the social capital, the vanguard and a force for good. The Youth in this country must rally around a common goal, set better standards, educate the population on their rights and responsibilities and continue to agitate for a peaceful resolution of the conflict that has continued for far too long.
The achievement of peace in South Sudan is a collective process. We must all make the decision that the conflict, and especially the senseless killings need to stop and say Enough is enough.
Remember however that, all wars must end in peace. Let all of you as South Sudanese all find in your hearts a place to forgive each other, accommodate one another and rekindle the spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood and take another historic step to rebuild your mother land. As the youth, the future belongs to you more than any other social group. Now that you are more educated on what is at stake, you have been empowered to participate in bringing peace to your country South Sudan in a more informed way and I therefore wish you good luck.
With these few remarks, I declare this orientation workshop closed.
Thank you very much and May God Bless you.
Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen;
Good morning!
1. On the onset, let me extend greetings and best wishes from the leadership at JMEC Secretariat with special greetings from our Chairperson, His Excellency, Festus Mogae.
2. Let me take this opportunity to thank the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative, for the tremendous work you have been involved in, in promoting peaceful coexistence among communities in South Sudan; specifically amongst the youth. Secondly, allow me to extend my appreciation for partnering with the Commision in convening this very important workshop themed “Peace in Time: Creating awareness for the Youth on the South Sudan Peace Process”.
3. Indeed, information and awareness about the content and procedures of the Peace process, including all the agreements that have emanated from it, is crucial in enabling effective participation among the South Sudanese population, of which all of you, gathered here today, are important stakeholders.
4. Regrettably, the Peace process in this country has not been without challenges. Today, we are still being confronted by increased hostilities amongst the different Parties and flagrant violations of the permanent ceasefire. The continuously deteriorating political, security, humanitarian and economic situation in the country has caused unprecedented displacement, famine and economic meltdown.
5. The impact of the war on the civilian population is deeply disheartening. We in the JMEC, particulary deeply regret the killing of civilains, sexual violence against women, the displacement of children, the elderly and disabled persons as evidenced in the UNMISS and United Nations Human Rights report released recently. We strongly condemn any acts of violence on civilian population and remind the parties to respect the spirit and fully commit to the letter and spirit of Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, signed by all Parties to the conflict in 21st December last year
6. Notably, the economic situation continues to worsen as evidenced by rising prices and high inflation levels. The effects of the war are putting more pressure on an already fragile economy and causing more despair amongst the South Sudanese population.
7. Despite all these setbacks, we continue to urge you all to play your part in positively engaging in the peace process. I call on all of you here to be the front-runners in promoting peace in the country.
8. It is my sincere hope and that of JMEC Secretariat that this workshop will not only equip you with the information you need in this quest, but will also strengthen your role in contributing to the revitalization’s intended outcomes of restoring inclusive implementation of the Peace Agreement, the Permanent Ceasefire in search for sustainable peace and stability in South Sudan.
I wish you fruitful deliberations.
Thank you very much. Good bless you.
CLOSING STATEMENT BY
H.E. AMBASSADOR BERHANU KEBEDE
CHIEF OF STAFF OF THE JOINT MONITORING & EVALUATION COMMISSION
AT THE END OF PHASE II OF THE HIGH-LEVEL REVITALIZATION FOURM
Wednesday, 23MAY 2018 ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
H.E Chairperson, IGAD Council of Ministers H.E Dr. Mousa Faki, Chairperson African Union Commission H.E Dr. Ismail Wais, IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, Your Excellencies, Heads of Delegation, Distinguished Participants Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your Excellency,
1. On behalf of our JMEC Chairman His Excellency Festus Mogae it is my privilege to address you all on the final day of the Forum.
2. I wish to take this opportunity to commend the IGAD Council of Ministers, for coming up with their concrete proposals aimed at bridging the gap between the parties, their continued leadership and tireless efforts pursuant to the revitalisation mandate.
3. I wish also to commend H.E Dr. Ismail Wais, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, for his resolute commitment towards a successful outcome of this process.
4. I further commend the South Sudan Council of Churches for their determined efforts to bring all the parties closer to the realization of peace.
5.Finally let me again thank the African Union, the United Nations, TROIKA, China, European Union, and all our interntional partners and friends of South Sudan for their unwavering support to the Forum and to the people of South Sudan.
Excellencies, Distinguished Participants, Ladies and Gentlemen,
6. Last week as we reconvened for this phase of the revitalization, the JMEC Chairman expressed his firm belief that you would be able to overcome all the outstanding issues, if you put the interest of the country first. While we may not have fully succeeded in acheiving our goal this time, I must continue to stress the need for compromise in the pursuit of lasting peace.
7. It is time to end the suffering. You heard for yourselves the deep yearning for peace by all the people of South Sudan, which was so eloquently expressed in the voices of the representatives of the refugees. We cannot and should not turn a deaf ear to these ever widening cries and pleas for peace.
8. Rather than continue on the destructive path of conflict, I urge you to invest your energy to make the best use of your resources for the good of all the people of South Sudan. To this end, you must reafirm your commitment, not only in word, but by concrete action to adhere to and fully observe the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement. By so doing, you would have set the basis for, and provide the best guarantee to bring lasting peace to your beautiful country.
9. In this regard, we welcome the signing of the addendum to the CoHA 2017 which fully operationalizes the CTSAMM Board, in an inclusive manner, and which will enhance monitoring and verification of compliance or lack thereof by all parties.
Excellencies, Distinguished Participants, Ladies and Gentlemen,
10. Make no mistake this past week will be remembered as one in which you all stood together with the support of the regional and international partners. However, many will be dissapointed that full agreement was not reached. Consequently, you have to continue working together in the best interest of your country.
11. You must therefore go the extra mile and reaffirm your commitment to this most noble of ideals the realization of lasting peace. Under these circumstances, the bridging proposals submitted by the IGAD Council provide the best opportunity to accommodate each other through compromise and realise your ultimate objective of sustainable peace.
12. Even as we leave this venue let us be reminded that this is a journey yet to be completed. Time is no longer on your side and therefore you must not grow weary in your pursuits. At this point in time nothing is more important to the citizens of South Sudan than the realization of a lasting and comprehensive peace. Therefore, through your actions in the days and weeks ahead give them the assurance that you will not relent until and unless peace becomes a reality.
13. In closing, I must remind you that ending the conflict will bring with it opportunities to rebuild your shattered economy, return millions of refugees to their homes, hold free and fair elections, and set the foundation for growth and prosperity in which all citizens can participate fully. May God bless us all. Thank You.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press,
1. I welcome you all to this Press Conference,
2. First and foremost, I take this opportunity to convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, to the Transitional Government of National Unity and the people of South Sudan on the passing of the Late Gen. James Ajongo Mawut, the fomer Chief of Defence Forces of the SPLA and the Late Gen. Andrew Makur Thou, former representative of Eminent Personalities to JMEC.
3. May the Almighty grant them and those other South Sudanese who have also lost their lives, eternal peace. I also want to take this opportunity to wish all the brave mothers and women of South Sudan, a happy Mother’s Day which we marked yesterday.
4. You will recall that our last JMEC Plenary was held in November 2017. We agreed to postpone the December Plenary to enable us all to focus our energies in preparation for the then forthcoming High-Level Revitalisation Forum scheduled to be convened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
5. It was our expectation that the Revitalisation Forum would quickly conclude and agree on concrete measures to restore the permanent ceasefire, a fully inclusive security and governance arrangement, and revised timelines and implementation schedules.
6. You will further recall that Phase 1 of the HLRF was successfully convened in Addis Ababa Ethiopia from December 18-22, 2017 at which the parties and stakeholders signed an inclusive Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access (COHA).
7. Again, it was our expectation then that the Forum would quickly reconvene in early January 2018 to conclude all the outstanding issues. This did not happen.
8. Instead, the second phase of the Forum took place from February 5th-16th 2018 and adjourned without conclusive outcomes. Following consultations with JMEC members here in Juba, we agreed that the plenary planned for February 27th be postponed in order to consult with the Parties and IGAD Leadership.
9. However, political developments within the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia delayed the consultations. I shall also brief the new Ethiopian Prime Minister, H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed, Chairperson of IGAD and seek further guidance.
Members of the Press,
10. JMEC has never suspended its work, nor has it abdicated its responsibility here in Juba. JMEC members have been at the forefront, individually and collectively supporting the HLRF process. We were mandated by the IGAD Heads of State in June 2017 to provide secretariat support to the IGAD Council of Ministers in this endeavor.
11. Consequently, it cannot be business as usual here in Juba during this period of revitalization. Our Secretariat is the core of the HLRF Taskforce, working with the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan. The revitalization of the implementation of the peace Agreement is and remains our top priority.
12. Let me reiterate JMEC’s position: the status quo is not inclusive and cannot bring sustainable peace. It was we who recommended to the IGAD summit that the peace Agreement must be revitalized to restore a permanent ceasefire and achieve inclusivity.
13. All our efforts, focus and energies therefore should be dedicated to the successful conclusion of the revitalisation process and to ensure a return to full and inclusive implementation of the Agreement.
14. The Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA), signed on 21st December 2017, has not had the desired impact of halting the violence. There have been serious violations of the CoHA since it came into force.
15. I continue to urge the parties to adhere to the CoHA. The parties must refrain from all acts of violence, cease hostilities and take immediate steps to investigate and punish those responsible within their ranks.
16. The humanitarian needs remain dire. About 4.2 million people remain displaced, 2.4 million of whom are in neighbouring countries. According to the UN, seven million people in South Sudan need humanitarian assistance. Food insecurity is widespread and it is estimated that 6.3 million people are severely food insecure.
17. The costs of the conflict to civilians continue to rise. A report by the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan (dated March 2018) documents the perpetration of gross human rights abuses with impunity.
18. Denial of and obstruction to humanitarian access remains a constant issue. So far this year, three aid workers have been killed and 23 aid workers detained. These impediments to humanitarian access are a violation of the CoHA and the 2015 Peace Agreement. This is unacceptable.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press,
19. On the economy, the situation is not any better. The net disposable revenues available to finance the TGoNU’s 2017/18 budget have declined markedly due to repayment of arrears, resulting in an increased deficit. The agreed payment of arrears in oil production fees and tariffs is estimated at USD 290m. South Sudan presently delivers around two thirds of the government’s share of oil production to Sudan in kind, and despite a marked rise in international oil prices in the last six months, this situation results in a very small impact on the Government’s cash flow. Payments resulting from the previous years’ default will continue to weigh down on net revenues until the total amount of arrears are paid, around the middle of next year.
20. The exchange rate against the US dollar continues to deteriorate, despite government efforts at the start of this year to curb activity in the black market and increase the availability of foreign currency. Combined with the deficit budget financing, this has served to fuel inflation. The inflation rate increased in March 2018 to 160 per cent compared to the same time last year.
21. Some progress has been made by the TGoNU in phasing out the fuel subsidy scheme, but more remains to be done in order to realise the level of savings that can assist in reducing government salary and payment arrears. In addition, there continues to be a reduction, and in some cases elimination, of investment spending, which has severe negative impacts on prospects for growth.
22. Furthermore, spending cuts have come about through successive postponements of public sector salary payments, and that combined with the severe inflation adds to a deepening sense of anxiety and insecurity among large parts of society. We cannot therefore, overemphasize the need for the parties at the Forum to end this conflict and embark on programmes for economic recovery, reform and development.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press,
23. We have submitted the most recent JMEC Quarterly Report covering the period from
1st December 2017 to 31st March 2018. I hope everyone has received a copy. The report is also published on our website for all to read. It highlights our work in the last three months and our contribution to the High Level Revitalisation process.
24. The Secretariat has also conducted several outreach activities to the South Sudanese civil society and stakeholders. We have printed and disseminated over 1000 copies of the newly signed COHA 2017, continue to create awareness and provide updates on the ongoing agreement implementation and the revitalization process.
25. We continue to receive reports from the various institutions and mechanisms of the Agreement and support their work. We are mindful that all agreement institutions and mechanisms, including JMEC, shall be reconstituted in an inclusive manner, when the revitalisation process succeeds.
26. The NCAC completed the Constitutional Amendment Bill and submitted it to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs on April 13th, 2017. The Bill was approved by the TGoNU Council of Ministers in November 2017. I am informed that at long last, the Amendment Bill was submitted by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to the TNLA for ratification on April 30th, 2018. I urge the Parliament to expedite the ratification.
27. The NCAC also completed drafting amendments to the five (5) security related laws and presented the Amendment Bills to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs on 25th January 2018.
28. The NCAC is currently undertaking the review and amendment of two election– related laws, the Political Parties Act, 2012 and the National Elections Act, 2012.
29. Finally, the continuation of Phase II of the High Level Revitalisation Forum is expected to reconvene in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia this week from May 17th to 21st.
30. This country has missed so many opportunities to make durable peace and we should not allow the HLRF to be squandered. This is the time for all parties at the forum to put the interest of the country first and make compromises necessary to achieve resolution of all the outstanding issues.
31. I want to appeal directly to the authorities here in Juba, and to all the opposition groups that you are all South Sudanese, and I urge you all to accommodate one another, to end this senseless violence.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press,
32. In conclusion, I want to observe and recommend the following:
a. The parties continue to wage a campaign of defiance and commit human rights abuses with impunity. This is unacceptable and I call on IGAD to make good its promise to hold spoilers accountable.
b. Full compliance and enforcement of the COHA 2017 is therefore critical to build confidence and provide an enabling environment during the revitalization process. This has not been the case for the past rounds of talks and I urge parties to cease all hostilities.
c. CTSAMM has been significantly strengthened under the COHA 2017 to report expeditiously to the IGAD Council of Ministers and JMEC simultaneously and to date we have received 19 reports for which action is required.
d. The political and security situation remains uncertain. The humanitarian and economic situation remains dire. We risk further deterioration if urgent steps are not taken to end the conflict immediately. The country must embark on an inclusive peace process, as there can be no military solution to this conflict.
e. I commend all JMEC members, regional and international partners for their active support to JMEC and the revitalization process. I urge them all to
remain engaged, to ensure that the current momentum is sustained and peace is restored.
May God bless us all. Thank you.
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen;
Good morning and welcome to our workshop on the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, the revitalization process and the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement.
Let me begin by thanking ‘Crown the Woman’ for partnering with JMEC in convening this very important event. An important component of our mission at JMEC is to conduct outreach and inform the public and stakeholder groups, such as yourselves, about the Peace Agreement.
Chairperson of IGAD Council of Ministers, Chairperson of the Africa Union Commission, IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, Honourable Ministers,
Your Excellencies, Distinguished Participants, Ladies and Gentlemen.
1. Good morning. I thank you for your kind invitation for JMEC to brief you here today. I convey the greetings and best wishes from H.E. Festus Mogae, Chairperson of JMEC, who sadly cannot be here with us in person. I am honoured to deliver this statement on his behalf.
2. I would like to begin by welcoming the renewal of the mandate of United Nation Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) by the UN Security Council. UN Security Council Resolution 2406 mandates support for the implementation of the peace agreement and the ongoing High Level Revitalization Forum. The full deployment and execution of the mandate of the Regional Protection Force (RPF) remains an important component of ensuring a conducive environment for the implementation of the peace agreement and for the process going forward.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
3. Two months ago JMEC addressed the Council and commended both you and Ambassador Ismail Wais, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, together with the high level facilitators, for the successful conclusion of the first phase of the High-Level Revitalization Forum that culminated in a signed Agreement on Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access in December 2017.
4. JMEC was all hopeful then that a cessation of hostilities would provide a peaceful environment within which all the Parties could constructively engage in the revitalization process, ensure the protection of civilians and facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access in the Republic of South Sudan for the duration of the Forum and thereafter.
5. Unfortunately, the CoHA has been violated repeatedly since the parties signed on to it in December 2017. There must be consequences for non-compliance and JMEC urges IGAD to take concrete action against violators.
6. JMEC commends you for steering the second phase of the Forum conducted last month. JMEC has been briefed on the progress made, including agreement reached on specific articles of Chapters I and II of the 2015 Peace Agreement as well as on the divergent views on issues that the Parties are yet to reach agreement. The Special Envoy will no doubt be providing a comprehensive report on the conduct of and progress made. JMEC will continue to render its support to the Special Envoy in accordance with the terms mandated by IGAD.
7. The HLRF presents a lifeline that the parties must seize with seriousness in order to set South Sudan on a path for sustainable peace. JMEC has said before, and we repeat it now, that the revitalisation process provides the most effective platform upon which to confront and resolve the severe security, governance, economic and humanitarian crises that continue to overwhelm South Sudan.
Chairperson, Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
8. JMEC has no doubt that the parties can reach agreement on all outstanding issues, if only they put the interest of South Sudan first. All parties must appreciate that time is of the essence. The fighting must stop. The suffering of the displaced must be brought to an end. Refugees must return to their homes.
9. The mandate of the HLRF is wide enough and sufficient enough to accommodate any proposal deemed pertinent for full and inclusive implementation. There is no doubt that for the ARCSS to be fully inclusive and effectively revitalized and implemented, there must be serious adjustments in some areas and a restructuring of all its mechanisms taking into account past and present realities.
10. Finally, JMEC recommends that, in terms of the way forward and securing a revitalised Agreement:
a. It is necessary for all Parties to a make a clear demonstration of commitment to peace and stop all forms of violence;
b. the status quo is not sustainable, and parties must explore concrete measures to revitalize the ARCSS, learn from experience and address current realities on the ground;
c. it is critical that IGAD, at its highest level, actively and collectively engages with the leadership of all parties and prevail upon those who pursue hardline positions to compromise and narrow the gaps between the various positions that currently exist.
d. Finally, the continued support of the region, international community and partners remains critical for success.
Thank you.