Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Thursday, 31 Janaury 2019, Juba, South Sudan
Leave politics to politicians, RJMEC advises Generals in S. Sudan
“Leave politics to politicians” was the message delivered to the representatives of the various security mechanisms by the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) Ambassador Lt. Gen. Augostino Njoroge.
“I want to address you as soldiers. In my experience as a soldier, I have learned that soldiers should leave politics to politicians. I therefore, expect you as soldiers to perform your duties in a professional manner, and uninfluenced by politics,” he noted.
Ambassador Njoroge added, “Key to your demonstration of professionalism is to provide accurate facts and figures. Only the truth will enable you to develop a clear strategy and realistic plans that will enable you to accomplish your mission.”
He was addressing Chairpersons and members of all the security mechanisms responsible for the implementation of the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements of the Revitalized peace Agreement. The two-day orientation and coordination workshop got underway today in Juba, and is convened by the RJMEC.
“It is also vital to your success that you develop trust amongst yourselves, the soldiers you command and the people you serve,” he said.
The mechanisms are the Joint Defence Board (JDB), Joint Military Ceasefire Commission (JMCC), Joint Transitional Security Committee (JTSC) and the Strategic Defence and Security Review Board (SDSR-B).
The workshop is aimed at creating a common understanding of the provisions of the Agreement, develop modalities for coordination among all security mechanisms and identify challenges hampering the execution of their mandate.
“I am fully aware that the permanent ceasefire is largely holding, thanks to the efforts of all of you,” he said.
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Wednesday, 30 Janaury 2019, Juba, South Sudan
RJMEC EXPRESSES CONCERN AT REPORTS OF MILITARY BUILD-UP
In response to having received various reports of military build-up in the area of Yei River State, the Reconsituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) urges restraint on all sides.
The progress made so far in terms of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) of December 2017 and the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) of September 2018 is a worthy achievement and should not in any way be looked on lightly by any Party.
RJMEC wishes to make it clear to all Parties that South Sudan is presently at a critical phase of the implementation of the peace Agreement, which since signing, has been characterized by a spirit of cooperation.
Likewise, that the ceasefire has been largely holding is a great credit to all its signatories, and we urge that this continue. The silencing of guns is a matter of high national importance.
RJMEC therefore urges all Parties to grasp firmly the IGAD-led diplomatic process and allow the full implementation of the peace Agreement.
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Friday, January 25, 2019, Juba, South SudAN
Report responsibly and accurately, RJMEC tells S. Sudan media
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission has asked the South Sudan media to promote cooperation and peaceful co-existence among citizens for effective implementation of the Revitalised peace Agreement.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of a two-day media workshop in Juba on Friday, RJMEC Chief of Staff, Ambassador Berhanu Kebede, said:
“As members of the media, your role is not only informing the public about what is happening, but also doing so in a responsible manner. You provide a voice to the voiceless, giving articulation to their needs,”
“A strong healthy country needs a media that promotes peaceful cooperation and co-existence among all South Sudanese, and we need a media that focuses on informing citizens of their rights, and on the progress of the implementation of the Agreement,” Ambassador Kebede said.
“You must therefore understand the full seriousness of this role, and ensure that you promote peace, togetherness and unity,” he added.
The workshop themed “Towards accurate reporting on IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons), Refugees and Returnees” was organized by Community for Progress Organization (CEPO), in collaboration with RJMEC and Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) and brought together 65 South Sudan journalists. The workshop was aimed at strengthening the capacity of media to report accurately on IDPs, returnees and refugees.
Broadly speaking, Ambassador Kebede said, “the ceasefire is holding, and the spirit of cooperation and consensus is enduring.”
“Within this overall picture, it is also important to see how the millions of people who have been displaced from their homes can return and rebuild their lives,” he said.
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Wednesday, January 23, 2019, Juba, South Sudan
Unification of armed forces will be “a decisive milestone” for this Revitalized Agreement, says Interim JMEC Chairperson
As the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement approaches a crucial period, the disengagement, cantonment and unification of armed forces in the Republic of South Sudan will be a “decisive milestone”, the Interim Chairperson of the reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC) has said.
In a statement(READ FULL STATEMENT HERE) delivered during the opening of the 3rdPlenary of the reconstituted JMEC in Juba on Wednesday, Ambassador Lt. Gen. Augostino Njoroge said,
“It is very important that all the armed forces of South Sudan are unified. With the rapid approach of the Transitional period, their unification will be a decisive milestone for this agreement, which is why no effort should be spared in achieving this.”
He added, “I expect that the work of the security institutions and mechanisms will quickly gather momentum, and that practical steps shall be taken to expedite the disengagement, cantonment and unification of forces.”
On mobilization of resources to support an “uninterrupted” implementation of the agreement, Ambassador Njoroge said,
“It is (for) the National Pre-transitional Committee and the incumbent Transitional Government of National Unity (TGoNU)to 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 without delay.”
“We continue our outreach to the donor community in the search for funds to support implementation, and we reiterate our heartfelt thanks for those who have already made contributions, be it financially or in–kind,” he said.
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Thursday, 20 December 2018, Juba, South Sudan
RJMEC CONDEMNS ASSAULT ON CTSAMVM TEAM IN LURI
RJMEC strongly condemns the assault on the CTSAMVM team in the area of Luri Training Center on 18 December 2018. Three international members of CTSAMVM’s Monitoring and Verification Team and their driver were denied access to the Luri Training Centre and they were arbitrarily detained, robbed of their money and valuables, blinded folded , handcuffed and physically assaulted by members of the National Security Service.
The assault on the team incuding a female member is appalling and unacceptable. The anger and disappointment this incident provokes is compounded by the fact it is entirely contrary to the letter and spirit of the hard-won peace agreement upon which so many South Sudanese people are relying.
It goes without saying that the work of CTSAMVM is critical for the success of the peace agreement. It is a mechanism consisting of brave and committed South Sudanese and international staff who monitor and verify that the ceasefire is holding and the transitional security arrangements are proceeding as required. Without CTSAMVM’s vital and constructive service, we would lack the facts needed to be able to talk of peace in South Sudan.
We expect that a full and transparent investigation is conducted immediately by the Government, and that the perpetrators will face the full force of the law. We also expect that the Government will take the necessary measures to prevent the recurrence of such kinds of violations as the South Sudan’s peace continues to take root. We honour the ongoing bravery and commitment of CTSAMVM by refusing to allow this incident to shake our commitment to peace in South Sudan.
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Wednesday, 12 December 2018, Juba, South Sudan
RECONSTITUTED JMEC SECOND PLENARY HELD IN JUBA
The second Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) Plenary took place on Wednesday 12 December 2018. Following the reconstitution of JMEC in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, last month, it was commendable that Juba was the venue for this Plenary.
Interim Chairperson Lt. Gen Ambassador Njoroge welcomed the Plenary participants, telling them that “ending the suffering of the people of South Sudan is not a soundbite to be repeated endlessly – it is the most legitimate goal we aspire to.”
The general progress and momentum of the implementation of the Peace Agreement was appreciated throughout the day. The role of the National Pre–Transitional Committee (NPTC) was emphasized, with the Interim Chairperson describing it as “an institution from which much is expected and will require our collective support.”
There was also commendable progress reported on the establishment or reconstitution of all the transitional security arrangement mechanisms, which met for the first time in Khartoum at the end of November to take the initial steps of their work.
Interim Chairperson Njoroge added: “I cannot stress enough the importance of these security institutions, especially the Joint Defence Board (JDB). While meeting within the confines of Juba or another regional capital is one thing, the complete silencing of guns throughout the entire country is needed for us to be able to talk of sustainable peace.”
The Interim Chairman closed his statement with his hopes and expectations for the coming period. He said: “The establishment and operationalization of the different agreement institutions and mechanisms should be expedited and completed without delay. I expect that we will commence the New Year at full capacity and use every single day to compensate for lost time.”
It is also the hope of the Interim Chairperson that the cases of alleged rape in Benitu are investigated by the government and CTSAMVM and that the perpetrators are brought to swift justice.
In his final remark in his statement, the Interim Chairperson appealed to the participants. “Christmas is a season for goodwill, and I call upon all Parties to continue reaching out to one another, engage in more confidence building measures, and I also appeal for any prisoners of war and political detainees not yet released to be freed.”
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Wednesday, December 5, 2018, Juba, South Sudan
JMEC APPALLED BY REPORTS OF RAPE AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS IN BENTIU
JMEC is extremely saddened and outraged by the reports of rape and sexual assaults against women and girls, which allegedly occurred at Bentiu town, Rubkona County, in Unity State, between the dates of 19 and 29 November 2018.
These allegations are being investigated by the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM). According to their preliminary investigation status report submitted to JMEC yesterday, they have confirmed that the alleged incidents occurred south of Bentiu town in the areas between NHIALDIU and BENTIU, THIL and PADAI road and Bentiu town to GUIT.
JMEC strongly condemns this brutal and horrendous attack on defenceless women and girls on their way to relief centres which was reportedly carried out by hooded men in uniform.
While CTSAMVM continues to carry out full investigations, JMEC calls upon the government to conduct a speedy, transparent and timely investigation into the attacks and apprehend the perpetrators and hold them to account and urge that CTSAMVM be given full access and support to complete its investigations.
The hard-won peace agreement in South Sudan remains the best chance for long-lasting peace to end the suffering of the people.
All steps must therefore, be taken to ensure its sanctity is protected and violations are dealt with by the full application of the law.
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Wednesday, November 28, 2018, Juba, South Sudan
NCAC concludes deliberations to incorporate Revitalised Agreement into South Sudan’s transitional Constitution
The reconstituted National Constitution and Amendment Committee (NCAC) has on Wednesday completed its deliberations on the incorporation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) into the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan (TCRSS) 2011 (as amended).
The Committee has been sitting in the South Sudan capital, Juba since November 5, 2018.
The meetings were attended by representatives of all the Parties in the reconstituted committee, including women, youth and civil society.
Representatives of the SPLM-IO and South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) travelled from outside the country to participate in this phase.
“This is a welcome indicator of trust-building in the peace process,” said NCAC Chairperson, Gichira Kibara.
During this period, the Committee deliberated on all the provisions of the Agreement, reached consensus on all issues and drafted the Bill to incorporate the Agreement into the transitional Constitution.
The Committee has however, deferred the issue of the description of the system of government during the pre-transitional and transition periods to the reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) to facilitate consensus among the parties on the issue after which the provisions relating to system of governance will be amended or retained accordingly.
The next phase of the Committee’s work, which commences in December 2018, Mr. Kibara said, involves the amendment of security laws to conform to the Agreement.
“Members of the Committee have worked well as a team and the Committee is committed to completing its mandate within the times provided in the Agreement despite the late start of its work,” he added.
According to Article 1.18.1 of the Revitalised Agreement, the NCAC is expected to draft and complete a Constitutional Amendment Bill, and incorporate it into the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan.
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Tuesday 27 November, 2018, Juba, South Sudan
JMEC welcomes the launch of South Sudan’s National Development Strategy (NDS)
The reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC) has lauded the launch of South Sudan’s National Development Strategy (NDS) on Tuesday.
Welcoming the launch of the three-year broad medium-term strategy for development in Juba, the Interim Chairperson of JMEC, Ambassador Lt. Gen. Augostino Njoroge, who also attended the launch at Freedom Hall, said.
“By launching the strategy, the Transitional Government of National Unity (TGoNU) is fulfilling a central requirement in Chapter IV of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).”
“Additionally, the implementation of the other provisions of Chapter IV of the revitilised agreement will make the development strategy into a more effective instrument in reaching the country’s development targets,” he stated.
“The transitional government has come a long way in stabilizing the economy during the last two years. The exchange rate has come down and stabilised from the beginning of this financial year. Inflation is also coming down. The big challenge now is to lock in these gains when starting to confront the many development challenges ahead,” he added.
South Sudan is facing daunting challenges in restoring stability, Ambassador Njoroge said, in “facilitating the return of refugees and IDPs, restoring social services and rebuilding infrastructure, to meet the longer-term aspirations of the people of South Sudan.”
Effective implementation of these reforms, he said, will contribute more transparency in decision-making, better accountability as a bulwark against corruption, and a more effective governance system.
“These measures will help build trust and ensure an inflow of foreign direct investment,” he added.
Ambassador Njoroge noted that the JMEC leadership and advisers look forward to work with South Sudanese focal institutions to ensure the required synergy between the implementation of the national development strategy and the revitilised agreement.
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Thursday 22 November 2018, Juba, South Sudan
Report factually and seek to promote cohesion and unity among citizens, South Sudan media asked
The media in South Sudan must ensure that they not only seek to report factually but also promote cohesion and unity among citizens, the reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has said.
Speaking during the opening of a two-day workshop in Juba on Thursday in collaboration with UNESCO and the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), the reconstituted JMEC Interim Chairperson, Ambassador Lt. Gen. Augostino Njoroge said:
“As the media, you have an important role to play in helping the people of South Sudan to understand the Agreement through your reporting. Your being here today is a demonstration that you, members of media, are also ready to be part of this journey to lasting peace."
“It is your responsibility to keep the citizens informed which in turn will enable them to unite and together push for the implementation of the Agreement,” Ambassador Njoroge added.
Further, Ambassador Njoroge expressed optimism that the Parties, stakeholders and the people of South Sudan will implement the revitalized peace agreement.
“I am greatly encouraged by the demonstrable political will of the Parties to implement the Revitalized Peace Agreement both in letter and spirit. So far, the signs are good, and there is momentum – but we must keep our efforts up,” he said.
The workshop themed “Towards Effective and Constructive Reporting of the R-ARCSS” brought together 50 journalists in South Sudan.
The JMEC Interim Chairman noted that some commendable progress has been made in the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement, within the prescribed timeline including:
a. Ratification of the Revitalized Agreement by the Parties;
b. Nominations by the Parties and stakeholders of their representatives to various institutions and mechanisms;
c. Establishment and reconstitution of the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), the National Pre-Transitional Committee (NPTC), and the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC).
“These are just a few building blocks of peace in South Sudan. But peace is a much broader concept requiring a constructive approach that reaches right across the country, and this is where you can help,” he said.
“I urge you to support all the Parties to the R-ARCSS and stakeholders and work alongside them in pursuing the common goal of having a peaceful country where its people live in safety and dignity.”
ENDS
JOINT PRESS RELEASE
FROM THE OFFICES OF JMEC AND IGAD
Tuesday, 20, November, 2018, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission reconstituted
The Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC) was reconstituted at a meeting convened on Monday 19 November 2018 by H.E. Dr Ismail Wais, the IGAD Special Envoy to South Sudan.
The Special Envoy commended the IGAD Council of Ministers for their support of the Revitalized Peace Agreement as well as the Government of South Sudan and the Parties for their commitment to the peace process.
JMEC Interim Chairman Ambassador Lt. Gen. Njoroge told the members of the reconstituted JMEC: “This august body is now reconstituted, made more inclusive, and bestowed with significant power and responsibility to monitor the Parties’ and stakeholders’ adherence to the implementation of the revitalized Peace Agreement. I can assert that we have the attention of the region as well as the people of South Sudan, and we must do our utmost to deliver.”
The meeting was attended by the Parties to the Agreement and other stakeholders, comprised of faith-based leaders, eminent personalities, and representatives of women’s groups, the business community, civil society, youth, and academia. Also present were the Regional Guarantors and the International Partners and Friends of South Sudan.
The reconstituted JMEC resolved as follows:
• Welcomed the reconstitution of the reconstituted JMEC by IGAD and expressed deep appreciation to H.E Dr. Ismail Wais, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan for his personal contribution that led to the success of the revitalization process;
• Congratulated the Interim Chairman Ambassador Lt. Gen. and all the representatives nominated to the reconstituted JMEC;
• Endorsed the statement of the reconstituted JMEC Interim Chairperson on the status of implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement;
• Commended the Parties for the positive steps taken in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, in particular nominations of representatives to the various institutions and mechanisms of the Peace Agreement and for the ongoing confidence building, and encouraged further progress;
• Endorsed the reconstituted JMEC Rules of Procedure 2018;
• Took note of the reports of the UNMISS, National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) and Ceasefire and Transition Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), and thanked the SGSR H.E Mustafa, and the Chairperson of NCAC Mr. Gichira Kibara for the good work and called for the immediate implementation of their recommendations;
• Called upon all parties and stakeholders to observe the permanent ceasefire in all parts of the country without exception and to guarantee unimpeded humanitarian access;
• Commended the outgoing Chairperson of CTSAMVM Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Abduljelill for his contribution to the peace process in his tenure and welcomed the new CTSAMVM Chairperson Maj. Gen. Desta Abiche;
• Appealed to the international partners and friends of South Sudan to support implementation of the Pre-Transitional activities of the Revitalized Peace Agreement;
• Called upon the IGAD Office of the Special Envoy to ensure the immediate establishment of the Joint Defense Board, International Boundaries Commission and Technical Boundaries Committee;
• That next reconstituted JMEC meeting should be convened on 12th December 2018 in Juba.