• Hon Dr. Abraham Korir SingOei CBS, Principal Secretary, Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Government of Kenya;

·     H.E. Lt. Gen Lazarous Sumbeiywo (rtd), Chief Mediator;

·     Paolo Impagliazzo, Secertary General of the Community of Sant’Egidio and Co-Mediator;

·     H.E. Ismail Wais, IGAD Special Envoy to South Sudan; 

·     Head of Government Delegation;

·     Head of Delegation, South Sudan Opposition Movements Alliance;

·     Excellencies;

·     Honourable Members; 

·     Distinguished        Guests;

·     Ladies and Gentlemen.

1.   Good morning. Hujambo nyote. Greetings to all of you. Karibuni Kenya. Welcome to Kenya! 

2.   It is a great honour and privilege for me to address you in my capacity as the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), the official oversight, monitoring and evaluation body of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. 

3.   At the outset, RJMEC wishes to congratulate the Government of Kenya, the Reconstituted Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) and the South Sudan Opposition Movement Alliance (SSOMA) for all efforts that have enabled the launching of the South Sudan High Level Mediation Process in Nairobi today. This gathering is a commendable demonstration of commitment by all that peace can only be achieved through a sustained dialogue, inclusivity and consensus building, which is an intrinsic acceptable process rather than  violence. 

4.   In this regard, I commend His Excellency Dr William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya for accepting to facilitate this dialogue following the request from His Excellency Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan; and the leadership of South Sudan Opposition Alliance SSOMA for accepting this dialogue in an effort to find durable peace in the Republic of South Sudan. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,  

5.        I wish to commend the mediation team from the Revitalised Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) led by Ambassador Albino Mathem for their commitment and continued search for an all-inclusive peace in South Sudan from the time that these negotiations commenced in Rome. I also wish to commend the South Sudan Opposition Movement Alliance (SSOMA) groups for their acceptance to continue to dialogue and accepting to come to the IGAD region in cognizance of the importance of regional support to these talks by embracing Nairobi as the venue for these deliberations.

6.   These talks build on seven rounds of the Rome Peace Process, led by the Community of Sant ’Egidio and IGAD, held between January 2020 and March 2023 which yielded some positive outcomes, including the recommitment to the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement and Declaration of Principles. 

7.    It is RJMEC’s expectation that these talks will further the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement and usher the country into an inclusive, peaceful and democratic end to the Transitional Period. Since the signing of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution to the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) in 2018, South Sudan has experienced 5½ years of relative peace, despite sporadic skirmishes and communal fighting that continues to occur in several parts of the country. However, it is important to note that Permanent Ceasefire continues to hold between the Parties to the Agreement. This relative peace compared to previous years before 2018, is a commendable achievement and needs to be further consolidated. These talks are therefore a positive step and an opportunity in which the outcome could lead towards attainment of sustainable peace in South Sudan.

8.   RJMEC, as the official oversight, monitoring and evaluation body established under Chapter VII of the Agreement, is cognisant of the status of implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, particularly regarding the Transitional Security Arrangements, elections preparation, the permanent constitution making process, and processes of truth, reconciliation and healing. 

9.   It is RJMEC’s view that the success of the South Sudan Mediation Process in Nairobi will come out with a framework of inclusivity, address the differences and bring a clear way forward that would enhance the peace process. Additionally, this success would build a momentum for the implementation of the remaining pending tasks of the R-ARCSS, towards the achievement of the lasting peace and stability in South Sudan.  

10.    With many critical tasks still pending implementation, against the backdrop of the fast-approaching end of the Transition Period as per the Agreement Roadmap, RJMEC has continued to encourage the Parties to the Agreement to ensure that implementation of these tasks is expedited and completed in order to lay a firm foundation for South Sudan’s transition to a democratically elected government. 

11.    As I conclude my remarks, I would like to underscore that the main expectation of the people of South Sudan is that your positive and constructive engagements here in Nairobi will galvanize and bolster the peace efforts already underway in South Sudan. A positive conclusion to this mediation process will no doubt empower the country’s reconciliation process, bring about enabling environment for national development and will contribute to durable peace, justice, liberty and prosperity to the people of South Sudan.  

12.    I therefore wish you fruitful engagements during this peace mediation.  

I Thank You!

-     Rt Honourable Speaker,

-     Rt Honourable Deputy Speakers,

-     Honourable Members,

-     Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good morning.

1.    It is a great honour and privilege for the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) to brief this august Assembly on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

2.    This briefing is pursuant to Article 7.9 of the Revitalised Peace Agreement which mandates RJMEC to, among others, report quarterly on the status of implementation of the Agreement, followed by detailed briefings to the Executive of the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) and its Council of Ministers and the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA). 

3.    Furthermore, RJMEC is mandated to brief the Chairperson of the IGAD Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, the United Nations Security Council and the Secretary General of the United Nations.

4.    Today is more than five-and-half years since the signing of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, more than four years into the Transitional Period and less than nine months to the elections scheduled for December 2024. The progress made to date shows that the South Sudanese leaders and people have collectively demonstrated that lasting peace, stability and development are possible and within reach.   

5.    In that regard, the collective will power and determination on the part of the RTGoNU Executive, and members of the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly are essential for the full implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

6.    My briefing this morning is a summary of the RJMEC Quarterly Report covering the period from 1st  January to 31stMarch 2024, and highlights the progress made in implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, critical pending tasks, challenges and key milestones that need to be reached as South Sudan prepares for elections, noting that overall, there has been slow progress in the implementation.

Right Hon. Speaker, Honorable Members,

7.    Under governance, progress has been made in legislative, judicial and institutional reforms. For example, the National Constitutional Amendment Committee completed its mandate of reviewing 24 pieces of legislation to conform to the Peace Agreement and international best practice. Of this about 10 have enacted into law, three (03) await assent of the President and five (05) are before this august Assembly and await enactment. RJMEC urges the expeditious enactment of these critical laws, including the National Security Service Bill which is long overdue.

8.    On its part, the Judicial Reform Committee also completed its mandate and drafted its final report with recommendations on judicial reforms aimed at ensuring an independent and credible judiciary to the RTGoNU. This report is  due for stakeholders validation and handover to the RTGoNU. RJMEC therefore urges the RTGoNU to support the JRC in this regard.

9.    In addition, the National Elections Commission, the Political Parties Council and the National Constitutional Review Commission which were reconstituted in the previous quarter undertook a series of induction workshops, including development and validation of their internal policy documents, workplans and budget for implementation in line with their respective mandates. RJMEC understands that budget for the operationalisation of these critical institutions and mechanisms awaits tabling and approval by this August House and appeals for urgency. 

10. On the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements, whereas the Permanent Ceasefire continues to hold among Parties to the Agreement, there are concerns regarding the activities of the National Salvation Front (NAS), including skirmishes with the SSPDF mostly in the southern part of Central Equatoria, as well as clashes between the SPLA-IO and defectors affiliated with the SSPDF such as General Simon Maguek in Unity State. Of similar concern is also  intercommunal violence in areas such as Greater Pibor Administrative Area, and Jonglei and Upper Nile states with mainly civilians bearing the brunt.  

11. Regarding completion of the unification of forces, there has been no substantive progress since the reported redeployment of 4,000 Phase I Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) during the last quarter. Similarly, there has not been any movement on the preparations for Phase II NUF training and the situation in cantonment sites remains dire. The unification of the middle echelon has been delayed. Further, the DDR process for all forces ineligible to join the NUF lacks funding from the RTGoNU and partners, therefore those troops remain in the training centres. DDR is a critical component of the unification process which should not be ignored.  However, it is encouraging that the Strategic Defense and Security Review Board is now in the process of validating the security sector policy frameworks, its final step.

12. The humanitarian situation remains bleak with increasing needs and over nine million people requiring assistance. Continuing depreciation of the local currency, the South Sudanese Pound, has inflated food prices, which increased by 19 percent in February 2024 compared to January 2024, thus worsening the situation of the population, many of whom were already acutely food insecure. 

13. The conflict in the Republic of Sudan has further excerbated the humanitarian crisis. By end of March, over 640,000 people were reported to have crossed into South Sudan from Sudan since 15 April 2023. Given the limited resources, responders were unable to provide adequate clean water, food, shelter and healthcare for the arriving populations. Overcrowding and unhygienic living conditions were reported in Bulukat and Renk transit centres in Upper Nile State. Taxation of humanitarian relief materials, illegal checkpoints, and insecurity along humanitarian corridors continued to undermine the R-ARCSS expectation that there will be unfettered access for millions of South Sudanese in need of humanitarian assitance from the United Nations and impartial international and national Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs).

Right Hon. Speaker, Honorable Members,

14. The implementation of the Public Financial Management reforms has been slow within the quarter. The work of the PFM Oversight Committee is ongoing but has been faced with a few administrative challenges.  It continued to monitor the non-oil revenue collection, which has progressively performed well as a result of recent reforms of the National Revenue Authority (NRA). However, data on oil revenue for the period has not been released following challenges posed by insecurity in Sudan on the lifting and export of crude oil respectively. Exports have been disrupted since the last week of February 2024.

15. Based on recommendations of the private sector development strategy, the business environment has been improved by formalising a good number of informal businesses. In addition, an  innovative initiative launched by the UNDP and Stanbic Bank aim to provide microfinance for vulnerable youth, ex-combatants, returnees and IDPs. Despite these commendable activities, the relevant pieces of legislation to ensure sustainability have not been passed, namely the bills for the establishment of the Youth Enterprise Development Fund and the Women Enterprise Development Fund. Another important legislation that needs to be enacted is regulating non-bank financial institutions.

16. Under Transitional Justice, there has been no change during the quarter. During the last reporting period, the Council of Ministers deliberated and approved the Bills for the establishment of the Commission for Truth Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA). On 5 December 2023, the two Bills were tabled before this august Assembly for consideration for enactment. 

17. Regarding the making of the Permanent Constitution, the National Constitutional Review Commission validated and adopted its draft internal documents. The Commission awaits funding in order to commence its work, including civic education, public consultation and the recruitment of the Constitutional Drafting Committee and the establishment of the Preparatory Sub-Committee for the convening of the National Constitutional Conference.  Funding of the NCRC budget was approved by the Council of Ministers and now requires this august House immediate attention.                              

Right Hon. Speaker, Honorable Members,

18. The challenges impeding progress in the implementation of the R-ARCSS include, among others, lack of adherence to the letter and spirit of the R-ARCSS; military defections which continue to undermine the confidence in the R-ARCSS and in some instances trigger conflict; insufficient political will and trust among some Parties; insufficient resources for implementation of the Agreement; capacity gaps in the Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms and lack of political and civic space.

19. While the current focus continues to be on the holding of elections in a timely manner, due attention should be given to expediting the completion of the pending critical tasks, which are prerequisites to the conduct of credible elections within the framework of the Agreement. Foremost among those are unification of forces and the making of a permanent constitution. There is also a need for this august Assembly to prioritize and ensure the passage of the Agreement related legislation most particulaly the National Security Service, CTRH and CRA Bills. Passage of the NSS Bill in its current form, as agreed by the Parties at Presidency level, will help in the deepening and further protection of political and civic space in the build-up to elections. The transitional justice bills once passed will allow for the establishment of the critical mechanisms that will spearhead the processes of truth telling, justice, healing, reconciliation, compensation and reparations,  In addition, following through on the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund will help channel additional resources to deal with the growing humanitarian situation and address the needs of the returnees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

20. In light of the aforementioned, the RJMEC recommends the Parties to the Agreement and Relevant Stakeholders to provide clarity on how it will complete the critical pending tasks and create the necessary conditions for the conduct of elections in a timely manner. It further recommends that they should embrace the call for dialogue in the spirit of collegiality and present to the people of South Sudan a unified plan for elections, with practical steps to fast-track the implementation of the Roadmap to ensure the timely conduct of elections.

21. In addition, the RJMEC recommends that the RTGoNU considers undertaking the following measures:

a.    Expedite additional funding to the   NCRC and NEC  in order to enhance the making of a people-led and a people-owned Permanent Constitution in accordance with provisions of the Constitution Making Process Act 2022, and provide resources to undertake the election-related tasks; 

b.    provide resources for the elections process while engaging with the international community to support its efforts;

c.     together with partners, expedite judicial reforms based on the JRC recommendations in a manner that compliments the permanent constitution making process and the conduct of elections;

d.    fast-track the dialogue towards achieving its goal of delivering a clear path as well as actionable political guidance on the way forward in an effort to sustain peace throughout the country;

e.    address the ongoing intercommunal violence consistent with its obligations to maintain security throughout the country; 

f.     provide, as a matter of urgency, all the resources necessary to deploy the remaining NUF, complete harmonisation of the command structure so that the country can have a unified force with a national character under one Commander-in-Chief and fund the DDR process, a critical component of the unifcation of forces; and

g.    establish the Special Reconstruction Fund with a view to helping to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the country.

22. Further, RJMEC appeals to the TNLA to expedite enactment of all pending amendment bills, including the National Security Services Bill, NGO Amendment Bill, and Transitional Justice bills and, to support the process of funding the constitution and election-making processes. 

23. It further urges the TNLA to encourage the Parties to conduct the dialogue process in a manner that enables the acheivement of  its goal of delivering a clear path towards to sustainable peace throughout the country; 

24. In conclusion, the end of the Transitional Period is less than 12 months as scheduled, yet very critical tasks remains unimplemented. It is essential that this August House galvanized the Parties to consolidate the peace dividends achieved since the Revitalised Peace Agreement was signed in 2018 and agree on a clear path for a peaceful and democratic end to the Transitional Period..

I Thank You!

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

   Thursday, 21 March 2024, Juba, South Sudan

URGENT DIALOGUE THE WAY FORWARD TO ADDRESS THE CURRENT POLITICAL SITUATION IN SOUTH SUDAN 

With the end of the extended transitional period fast approaching, a number of critical tasks remain unimplemented, and critical bodies, such as the Political Parties Council (PPC), the National Elections Commission (NEC) and the National Constitutional Review Commission(NCRC), remain unfunded with no clear timelines on the way forward. 

With elections as scheduled are barely nine months away, the Republic of South Sudan therefore needs clarity from the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) on how it is planning to expedite and complete the critical pending tasks necessary to conduct free, fair and credible elections in December 2024. 

In RJMEC's engagements with all key stakeholders and institutions and mechanisms of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), it is evident that there is a need for clear and actionable political guidance from the Executive of the RTGoNU and the Parties to the Agreement, without the loss of any more critical time and momentum. As such, urgent dialogue of the Parties to the R-ARCSS is the most expedient way to address the current political situation. 

It is clear that the way forward on elections depends on the Parties meeting and engaging in dialogue openly and constructively, in the spirit of collegiality and consensus. Against this backdrop, and as per Article 7.10 of the Peace Agreement, RJMEC has written to the RTGoNU and stressed on the importance of the inter-party consultations and constructive  dialogue, in order to forge a viable way forward, within the framework of Article 1.9.1 of the R-ARCSS, which states that: 

“the RTGoNU is founded on the premise that there shall be collegial collaboration in decision-making and continuous consultations within the Presidency, between the President, the First Vice President, and the Four Vice Presidents, to ensure effective governance during the Transitional Period.”

Even though implementation has not progressed according to the Roadmap timelines, it is nonetheless possible to make important strides in the coming months by undertaking various tasks as stipulated in the R-ARCSS. This will serve as a clear demonstration of the political goodwill needed to move forward while engaging in dialogue. 

ENDS

Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

 Friday, 8 March 2024, Juba, South Sudan

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2024: RJMEC SALUTES THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF WOMEN TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE R-ARCSS

Today, March 8, is International Women’s Day, a day where the world marks the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) salutes the contributions of women to the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).  

During the IGAD-led High-Level Revitalization Forum (HLRF) of the Parties and stakeholders which culminated into the Revitalised Peace Agreement, South Sudanese women played a critical role in successfully negotiating issues affecting them. The chief mediator was a woman. 

The increase in women representation from 25% under the previous Peace Agreement to 35% under the Revitalised Peace Agreement is a demonstration of women’s agency in arguing their case for effective representation and participation in political processes, including in all state institutions. 

RJMEC Chairperson, Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai, says, however: “The slow implementation of the different chapters of the agreement affects women’s meaningful participation in the ongoing political and constitution making processes.” 

“How will women participate when they and their families remain hungry, lack protection, are stuck in refugee or IDP camps, have no IDs, no access to basic services, and are preoccupied with the challenge of feeding their families without access to income or productive resources?”   

“RJMEC encourages women to engage multiple stakeholders in their circles of influence, key among that is to appeal to the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity, to take action to improve the environment for women’s participation through programming and interventions targeted at investing in women to accelerate progress.” 

“The letter and spirit of the gender provisions in the Revitalised Peace Agreement are deep and far-reaching, and aimed at creating a conducive environment for women in South Sudan to actively participate in the political, economic and social life of their country. RJMEC further encourages the Parties to the Agreement to facilitate the meaningful participation of women in all aspects of Agreement implementation.”  

ENDS

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today Tuesday 27 February 2024, addressed the 1202nd meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC). 

Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

Tuesday, 27 February 2024, Juba, South Sudan

WITH TEN MONTHS LEFT, NO CONSENSUS AMONG THE PARTIES ON ELECTIONS, KEY PENDING TASKS REMAIN INCOMPLETE 

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today Tuesday 27 February 2024, addressed the 1202nd meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC). 

In his statement delivered virtually, RJMEC Chairperson Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai said it is concerning that with 10 months to scheduled elections, much work remains to be done to complete the Agreement requirements for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections.

Amb. Gituai said that pending tasks include funding and operationalisation of the elections-related institutions responsible for preparation and conduct of elections and the making of the permanent constitution, the provisions of which will guide the conduct of elections.

Others are judicial reforms to enhance the capacity and independence of judicial institutions, completion of Phase I and II unification of forces and the expansion of political and civic space to enhance public participation in constitution and election processes.

In his address, Amb. Gituai noted: “This five-year period of the Agreement marks the longest period of relative peace, inclusivity and stability since independence in 2011. The gains made in this period are significant, considering the previous security situation in the country. It is therefore important to consolidate and protect these achievements.” 

However, the RJMEC Chair continued: “In my recent engagement with the Parties to the Agreement, it is evident that there is no consensus among the Parties on the elections.” “Given the scale of the tasks ahead, therefore, there is need for the Parties to dialogue, and demonstrate political will, compromise, consensus, unity of purpose and agree on the way forward,” he said.

In his recommendations, the RJMEC Chairperson called on the AUPSC to support the Revitalised Transitional Government to deliver credible elections within the framework of the Agreement, and encourage the Parties to dialogue in order to build the consensus and compromise as necessary to hold free, fair and credible elections.

ENDS  

-       Chairperson of the AU Peace and Security Council,

-       Commissioner for the AU Political Affairs, Peace and Security

-       Your Excellencies, Distinguished Permanent Representatives

-       Ladies and Gentlemen 

Your Excellency,

1.    I am honoured to once again address this august Council as the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC). This statement builds on the one delivered by RJMEC to the 1186th Session of the AU PSC on 16 November 2023.

2.    Given the short time available to brief you, I will be concise. Last week, on 22 February 2024, South Sudan marked the four-year anniversary since the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity was established. Similarly, 18 September 2023 last year, marked five years since the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) was signed in 2018. This five-year period of the Agreement marks the longest period of relative peace, inclusivity and stability since independence in 2011. The gains made in this period are significant, considering the previous security situation in the country. It is therefore important to consolidate and protect these achievements. 

3.    In accordance with the Roadmap which began one year ago, the Transitional Period ends in February 2025, one year from now. Elections are scheduled for December 2024, two months before the end of the Transition period, in accordance to the Agreement, which legitimises the Revitalised Transitional Government. In RJMEC’s assessment, much work remains to be done to complete the Agreement requirements for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections. In my recent engagement with the Parties to the Agreement, it is evident that there is no consensus among the Parties on the elections.

Your Excellency,

4.    The Revitalised Peace Agreement is a blueprint to transform South Sudan into a stable and prosperous country, and was predicated on upholding the permanent ceasefire, inclusive implementation of the Agreement, and realistic timelines towards credible, peaceful, free, and fair democratic elections. With ten months left before the scheduled elections, it is concerning that the following key tasks required for elections have not been completed:

·      funding and operationalisation of the elections-related institutions responsible for preparation and conduct of elections;

·      making the permanent constitution, the provisions of which will guide the conduct of elections;

·      judicial reforms to enhance the capacity and independence of judicial institutions, including addressing election-related disputes;

·      completion of Phase I and II unification of forces in order to provide security throughout the country;

·      facilitating the return and resettlement of refugees and IDPs; and

·      protection and expansion of political and civic space to enhance public participation in constitution and election processes, among others.

5.    Given the scale of the tasks ahead, therefore, there is need for the Parties to dialogue, and demonstrate political will, compromise, consensus, unity of purpose and agree on the way forward.

Your Excellency,

6.    The aforementioned pending tasks are outlined in the Agreement as part of the critical reforms required to address the root causes of the conflicts that have occurred in South Sudan since independence. With this in mind, I would like to conclude with some recommendations. The AU PSC to use it good offices to: 

i)             support South Sudan’s Revitalised Transitional Government politically, financially and technically to expedite and complete the pending tasks to deliver credible elections within the framework of the Agreement;

ii)          encourage the Parties to the Agreement to dialogue among themselves in order to build the consensus and compromise as necessary to hold free, fair and credible elections;

iii)        prevail on the Revitalised Transitional Government to avail the requisite resources and logistics to fully operationalise the institutions which drive forward all the tasks required for the constitution-making process, elections, and the completion of the unification of forces; and

iv)         urge the Parties to adhere to the 35% minimum threshold for women’s representation in all mechanisms in accordance with the Agreement, and promote the inclusion of youth and those living with disabilities.

7.    As the end of the Transitional Period approaches, it is important for the AU to assist the Principals of the Parties to dialogue, compromise and reach consensus on the elections. 

I Thank You.

By Amb. Charles Tai Gituai

Today, South Sudan marks four years since the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) was formed on 22 February 2020 and the Transitional Period began. The Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) gives the RTGoNU tremendous responsibility, not least to “implement this Agreement and restore permanent and sustainable peace, security and stability in the country”, as per Article 1.2.2.

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) on Thursday February 8, 2024 convened its 34th monthly plenary in Juba. 

Addressing the meeting, RJMEC Chairperson Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai said:

“This is a significant and important year for South Sudan.” However, he added, “What is unclear is how the RTGoNU and Parties to the Agreement will be able to complete the critical pending tasks and create a conducive environment for the conduct of credible elections within the time left.”

He said, “Much work needs to be done to create an enabling environment for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections, as per the Agreement and the Roadmap.”

Amb. Gituai noted commendable progress made since December 2023, especially the reconstitution and operationalisation of “some the critical institutions, such as the National Constitutional Review Commission, the National Elections Commission, and the Political Parties Council.”

“However, we are mindful of the delays in their establishment, and the very short time left for them to deliver their important mandate,” he said. 

However, Amb. Gituai took note of recent examples of intercommunal violence, in particular the Abyei Administrative Area, and Unity, Warrap, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Jonglei States, adding: “These attacks (in Abyei) follow a pattern of continuing violence between local communities in recent weeks and months.RJMEC urges for dialogue to break the cycle of violence and underscores the need for the culture of peace to prevail. Much is at stake for the people of South Sudan as they seek to have their democratic aspirations met by holding their first elections as an independent nation.”

The RJMEC Chair drew members’ attention to a number of tasks, which if completed in a timely manner, he said ”will enhance political and civic space, sustain the peace and consolidate the gains made in the implementation of the Agreement so far.”

These include among others, the full operationalisation of the three newly reconstituted institutions, completion of Phase I and Phase II unification of forces, and addressing intercommunal violence through national and state-level dialogue and peacebuilding mechanisms.

In his recommendations, the RJMEC Chairperson encouraged dialogue among the Parties and clarity on the plans and preparations for the conduct of elections and funding of elections-related reconstituted institutions. 

Others include the completion of the training and deployment of the NUF to provide election-related security and security in areas of intercommunal violence, the funding and operationalisation of the process of making a people-led and people-owned constitution, and ensuring the participation of women in all political processes, and their representation in mechanisms in accordance with the Agreement at the minimum threshold of 35%.

Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

Thursday, 8 February 2024, Juba, South Sudan

RJMEC ACKNOWLEDGES PROGRESS, NOTES MUCH WORK TO BE DONE FOR AN ENABLING ENVIRONMENT FOR FREE, FAIR AND CREDIBLE ELECTIONS

 The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) on Thursday February 8, 2024 convened its 34th monthly plenary in Juba. Addressing the meeting, RJMEC Chairperson Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai said:

“This is a significant and important year for South Sudan.” However, he added, “What is unclear is how the RTGoNU and Parties to the Agreement will be able to complete the critical pending tasks and create a conducive environment for the conduct of credible elections within the time left.”

He said, “Much work needs to be done to create an enabling environment for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections, as per the Agreement and the Roadmap.”

Amb. Gituai noted commendable progress made since December 2023, especially the reconstitution and operationalisation of “some the critical institutions, such as the National Constitutional Review Commission, the National Elections Commission, and the Political Parties Council.”

“However, we are mindful of the delays in their establishment, and the very short time left for them to deliver their important mandate,” he said. 

However, Amb. Gituai took note of recent examples of intercommunal violence, in particular the Abyei Administrative Area, and Unity, Warrap, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Jonglei States, adding: “These attacks (in Abyei) follow a pattern of continuing violence between local communities in recent weeks and months.RJMEC urges for dialogue to break the cycle of violence and underscores the need for the culture of peace to prevail. Much is at stake for the people of South Sudan as they seek to have their democratic aspirations met by holding their first elections as an independent nation.”

The RJMEC Chair drew members’ attention to a number of tasks, which if completed in a timely manner, he said ”will enhance political and civic space, sustain the peace and consolidate the gains made in the implementation of the Agreement so far.”

These include among others, the full operationalisation of the three newly reconstituted institutions, completion of Phase I and Phase II unification of forces, and addressing intercommunal violence through national and state-level dialogue and peacebuilding mechanisms.

In his recommendations, the RJMEC Chairperson encouraged dialogue among the Parties and clarity on the plans and preparations for the conduct of elections and funding of elections-related reconstituted institutions. 

Others include the completion of the training and deployment of the NUF to provide election-related security and security in areas of intercommunal violence, the funding and operationalisation of the process of making a people-led and people-owned constitution, and ensuring the participation of women in all political processes, and their representation in mechanisms in accordance with the Agreement at the minimum threshold of 35%.

Honourable Ministers, 

Excellencies, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

1.   A Happy New Year to you all. I welcome you to the 34th meeting of the RJMEC and the first plenary meeting for the year 2024. This is a significant and important year for South Sudan, and for us as RJMEC, monitors of the Revitalised Peace Agreement. Much work needs to be done to create an enabling environment for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections, as per the Agreement and the Roadmap. That said, the prospects of delivering the country to a democratic dispensation should motivate all of us, the Parties in particular, to redouble efforts to achieve this historic goal smoothly.

2.   In this regard, I am encouraged with the commendable progress made since we last met in December 2023, in particular with regard to the reconstitution and operationalisation of some of the more critical institutions, namely, the National Constitutional Review Commission, the National Elections Commission, and the Political Parties Council. However, we are mindful of the delays in their establishment, and the very short time left for them to deliver their important mandate.

3.   Since we last met, I have had the opportunity to engage with some of the Principals of the Revitalised Agreement or their representatives, as well as the leadership of the newly reconstituted institutions, and some of our peace partners and special envoys. My overall assessment is that there is significant appetite for elections to be conducted in a timely manner, and in accordance with the requirements of the Revitalised Peace Agreement. What is unclear, however, is how the RTGoNU and Parties to the Agreement will be able to complete the critical pending tasks and create a conducive environment for the conduct of credible elections within the time left.

4.   I also briefed the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, the AU Panel of the Wise, and the Facilitation Support Team from South Africa, as well as many other international and regional peace partners. In these meetings, I appealed for their unwavering support to the South Sudan peace process, and emphasised the need for the leadership of the RTGoNU to dialogue, embrace collegiality, and work together as peace partners in order to build social cohesion and the public confidence needed to hold free, fair and credible elections as scheduled for December 2024.

5.   With this in mind, my statement will update you on the recent progress registered in the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, highlight the critical pending tasks and challenges facing implementation, and conclude with my recommendations to the RTGoNU and Parties to the Agreement.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, 

6.   Regarding governance, since the last meeting, the members of the National Elections Commission (NEC) and the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) were sworn in and have begun work. I look forward to an update from these two bodies, as well as the Political Parties Council (PPC), which had been sworn in earlier.

7.   In terms of pending legislation, the TNLA is currently considering a number of bills, including that of the National Audit Chambers, the National Security Service, the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing, and the Compensation and Reparation Authority. The Anti-Corruption Commission Act has been assented to by the President of the Republic of South Sudan, the operationalisation of which will enhance transparency and accountability across the public sector. The National Social Insurance Fund Act has also been recently assented to. In this regard, the mandate of the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) is nearing completion, with only two laws remaining to be reviewed and drafted. The NCAC will update the meeting this morning. 

8.   The ad-hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) for its part is currently concluding its stakeholder consultations, and is drafting its final report. This report is expected to contain recommendations critical for reforming the judiciary, including review of the Judiciary Act, reconstitution of the Judicial Service Commission and establishment of the Constitutional Court, among others. 

9.   Regarding security, it is very concerning to have begun the year with multiple reports of violence in different parts of the country, in particular the Abyei Administrative Area, and Unity, Warrap, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Jonglei States. For example, over the weekend of 27-28 January 2024, it is deeply regrettable that over 50 lives were lost in intercommunal fighting in Abyei, including two peacekeepers from the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei. Sadly, these attacks follow a pattern of continuing violence between local communities of that area in recent weeks and months.

10.       RJMEC urges for dialogue to break the cycle of violence and underscores the need for the culture of peace to prevail. Much is at stake for the people of South Sudan as they seek to have their democratic aspirations met by holding their first elections as an independent nation.  RJMEC therefore reminds the RTGoNU of its responsibility, as per Article 1.2.2 of the R-ARCSS, to restore permanent and sustainable peace, security, and stability.

11.       Regarding the Transitional Security Arrangements, the completion of the unification of forces is a key step towards providing a conducive environment in which to hold elections. However, under Phase I, deployment of the graduated personnel is at a limited stage, though it has begun. According to CTSAMVM, around 4000 army NUF personnel have been deployed to the states of Upper Nile, Eastern Equatoria, Western Equatoria and Western Bahr El Ghazal. However, some 51,000 NUF personnel are yet to deploy, the majority of whom are from other organised forces besides the army, which also play an important role in South Sudan’s security. The status of Phase II also remains unclear.

12.       In addition, the DDR process has not started, even though soldiers were screened for that purpose during Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) Phase I training, graduation and deployment. I look forward to hearing from the Joint Defence Board and the DDR Commission on the progress in this matter, especially on gender disaggregated data relating to both the deployed unified forces and those yet to be deployed.

13.       The work of the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) Board has stalled. The documents prepared by the Board as per their mandate still require validation, and it is not clear how this process will move forward in light of the strike by the members of the Board and Secretariat. I would like the Chair of the SDSR Board to provide an update on this matter.

14.       In regard to the Sant’Egidio-mediated Rome peace process, it is important to mention that this peace process between the RTGoNU and the hold out groups will now be conducted with facilitation by Kenya. This is following the request by H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit to H.E. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, to facilitate the peace talks between the RTGoNU and the hold out groups. It is hoped that this new initiative will take the process forward.

15.       As you may recall in our previous meetings, we informed members that we are in the process of addressing the CTSAMVM administrative and operational matters that hindered progress in their work. It is therefore encouraging to note that following the interventions of RJMEC and IGAD, CTSAMVM’s operational challenges have now been resolved. CTSAMVM has a very important role to play this year in the lead up to elections and I urge the Parties and international community to afford it all the support it needs. I look forward to hearing a report from the CTSAMVM Chair this morning.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

16.       In the last two months, the humanitarian situation has continued to worsen, with approximately 120 thousand more refugees and returnees fleeing the conflict in Sudan entering the country, according to UNOCHA. This exacerbates the general humanitarian situation in South Sudan, where the scale of need is already high, service delivery is low, and the little resources available are very stretched. Furthermore, the Special Reconstruction Fund and Board, a mechanism which could provide much needed focus and direction to the humanitarian and reconstruction needs of South Sudan, has not been established. 

17.       On the subject of resource, economic and financial management, while it is encouraging that the Anti-Corruption Commission Act has been assented to, other key pieces of legislation intended to strengthen transparency and accountability in the economic and financial sectors, including amendment bills to the National Audit Chambers Act and the Public Financial Management and Accountability Act, are pending.

18.       Though in general there has been some improvement in the management of natural resources, greater accountability is required in wealth sharing and revenue allocation as South Sudan prepares for democratic elections. The proportion of the country’s natural resource wealth to be shared with the states and communities are to be reviewed in accordance with Article 4.11.5, and the final terms of the increment and formulae agreed upon, and should be determined in the permanent constitution.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

19.       Regarding transitional justice, there has been no progress since the previously reported situation; the Bills for the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) remain with the reconstituted TNLA. I urge the TNLA to give these bills their timely attention, as matters of truth, reconciliation and healing will play a vital role in South Sudan this year, spearheading the promotion of forgiveness and social cohesion ahead of elections. I look forward to hearing an update on the Hybrid Court for South Sudan from the African Union and the RTGoNU. 

20.       On the issue of the constitution making process, the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) has commenced work. A people-led and people-owned constitution, if made in an inclusive and participatory manner, will be critical in anchoring lasting stability and good governance as the country transitions into its democratic future. RJMEC therefore urges the RTGoNU and partners to support the NCRC in order for it to conduct much-needed civic education and public consultations for the permanent constitution, which is also a critical requirement for the conduct of elections, as per the Agreement.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

21.       The recurring challenges facing implementation of the agreement are by now familiar, and steps to mitigate them in order to smooth the way for elections at the end of this year need to be taken. These challenges include, among others, the lack of sufficient funding, trust deficit, capacity gaps, intercommunal violence, defections, flooding, and the influx of returnees and refugees fleeing the conflict in Sudan.

22.       Meanwhile, there are a number of critical tasks, which if completed in a timely manner, will enhance political and civic space, sustain the peace and consolidate the gains made in the implementation of the Agreement so far. In particular, attention needs to be paid to:

i)             full operationalisation of the three newly reconstituted institutions, especially provision of funding to enable them to deliver their mandates;

ii)           completion of Phase I and Phase II unification of forces, and provision of funding for DDR;

iii)        addressing intercommunal violence through national and state-level dialogue and peacebuilding mechanisms;

iv)         implementation of the legal and policy frameworks which enhance transparency and accountability in economic and financial sectors; and

v)           establishment and operationalisation of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing and the Compensation and Reparation Authority.

23.       In light of the aforementioned, I would like to make the following recommendations to the RTGoNU:

i)           encourage further dialogue, collegiality, and consensus building among the Parties, their principals, and the stakeholders;

ii)           provide clarity on the plans and preparations for the conduct of elections as scheduled;

iii)        avail the requisite resources and logistics to fully operationalise the elections-related reconstituted institutions;

iv)         operationalise all pieces of legislation enacted by the TNLA; 

v)           complete the training and deployment of the NUF to provide election-related security and security in areas of intercommunal violence;

vi)         fund and operationalise the process of making a people-led and people-owned constitution; and

vii)      ensure the participation of women in all political processes, and their representation in mechanisms in accordance with the Agreement at the minimum threshold of 35%.

24.       In conclusion, I would like to urge you, as RJMEC members, to engage frankly with the RTGoNU and Parties’ representatives, to clarify how they intend to deliver peaceful, free, fair and credible democratic elections as per the Agreement and Roadmap in the remaining time. I wish you fruitful deliberations.

I Thank You. 

The author is Ambassador Major General Charles Tai Gituai CBS, Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC)

As the year comes to end, South Sudan deserves  to be congratulated for   raising  her flag high; not only in achieving very highly is sports but also having  assumed the East African Community leadership. The  responsibility of leading the East African community further places South Sudan into regional and international focus at this critical period of her political life, as the county gears up for elections. Consequently, the approach, speed, commitment, and adherence by the RTGoNU on the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution to the Conflict in the Republic South Sudan (R-ARCSS), will be very crucial and imperative, in enhancing regional and international trust and confidence of the country and its leadership of the East African Community. I would therefore like to once again  emphasise the responsibility of the RTGoNU executives at national and state levels to ensure full and timely implementation of the Revitalised Agreement.