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