Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen 

Good morning, 

1.   It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this workshop dedicated to discussing how to enhance the role and participation of South Sudan women in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. The theme of the event, “understanding the Roadmap and women’s participation in implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS)” is timely and significant.

2.   Today is a special day for all of us, as we mark the International Women’s Day. This special day encourages us to reflect on the milestones that have been achieved by women in the world. The ideals advocated by the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 are aimed, among others, at mainstreaming gender by bringing about a greater sensitivity to the different effects that war has on men and women. 

3.   The ground-breaking Security Council Resolution 1325, which was passed in the year 2000, is the first to link women’s experiences of conflict to the international peace and security agenda, focusing attention on the disproportionate impact of conflict on women, and calling for women’s engagement in conflict resolution and peace building. It recognised the undervalued and underutilised contributions women make to conflict prevention, peacekeeping, conflict resolution, conflict transformation, including securing and sustaining peace. It also stressed the importance of women’s equal and full participation as active agents in peace and security.

4.   Historically, women have been in record for constructively engaging in the South Sudan peace process. During the IGAD-led High-Level Revitalization Forum (HLRF) of the parties and stakeholders which culminated into the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), the South Sudanese women played a critical role in successfully negotiating issues affecting them. As you may recall, the chief mediator, Hanna Tetteh, is a woman.

5.   The increase in women representation from 25% under the previous Peace Agreement to 35% under the Revitalized Peace Agreement is a sheer demonstration of the women’s agency in arguing their case for effective representation and participation in political processes, including in all state institutions. RJMEC encourages the R-TGoNU and all the political parties to provide an enabling environment for South Sudanese women to fully participate in the implementation of the R-ARCSS.   

6.   This workshop therefore comes shortly after we have marked the third anniversary of the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU), three years of the Transitional Period of the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), and after four and a half years of the signing of the Revitalized Peace Agreement itself.

7.   In late 2021, it was RJMEC’s assessment that a number of critical tasks were pending, which would have made the conduct of elections as originally scheduled in December 2022, near impossible. Accordingly, RJMEC requested the RTGoNU to develop and share its strategy on achieving the critical pending tasks within the timeframe remaining. Consequently, the RTGoNU duly developed a Roadmap in August 2022, setting out a revised schedule for implementation of the critical pending tasks to enable the country conduct peaceful and democratic elections within 24 months, with the Transitional Period now expected to end in February 2025. 

8.   The Roadmap, in the words of the RTGoNU, “is to provide time-bound guidance on the implementation of outstanding provisions that are critical to the conduct of peaceful and democratic elections at the end of the transition period, not alternative to the R-ARCSS.”Therefore, in the extended period of the Transitional Period, just as before, the R-ARCSS remains the supreme document.

9.   In this regard, therefore, as we move into the extension period, the gender provisions remain very relevant and central. This is the reason why the theme of the event, “Understanding the Roadmap and women’s participation in implementation of the R-ARCSS” is the main focus of discussions in the workshop.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, 

10.        The gender provisions of the Agreement seek to improve the inclusion and empowerment of women in a very fundamental way. They cover the participation and representation of women in decision‐making positions, in all governmental bodies, and institutions and mechanisms that drive political, economic, social and judicial reforms, as well as the constitution-making process. This remains equally valid and important in the Roadmap.

11.        In particular, there are provisions which refer to the prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls, including measures to prevent sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in general and sexual violence in particular. Then, there are provisions on the protection and promotion of women and girls’ rights, including protection from SGBV, and the consideration of women and girls’ specific protection needs. 

12.        Therefore, it is evident that the letter and spirit of the gender provisions in the Revitalized 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. It is important to recognise the role and value of women in all these aspects. Women are capable in decision-making, especially those affecting the social fabric and the environment, and they share information well. They bring additional perspectives, especially on issues that affect other women and girls. Women also provide holistic approaches and dimensions in today’s complex and evolving challenges in all spheres. 

13.        In spite of the fact that UNSCR 1325 on the role of women in conflict resolution and peace processes, which calls for the adoption of gender perspectives, especially of women’s and girls’ needs in peace agreements, and their implementation mechanisms, and for the protection and respect of their rights, women continue to face obstacles in the realisation of this aspiration, and do so during the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

14.        The challenges facing women are enormous, especially in our continent and also in South Sudan. They include those related to access to power, inclusivity and effective participation, and gender bias. Unless such challenges are adequately addressed, perspectives and concerns of women will be overlooked in politics as well as in the implementation of the Roadmap of the R-ARCSS. This therefore calls for women to be respected and not to be ignored or undermined, and women should be assertive in making their voices heard.

15.        As the RTGoNU continues in the implementation of the Roadmap, there are some key bodies which need to be reconstituted and staffed. These include the Political Parties Council, the National Elections Commission, and the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC). Also related to the Constitution-making process is the establishment of the Preparatory Sub-Committee for the National Constitutional Conference, and recruitment of the Constitutional Drafting Committee. 

16.        As we know, the Agreement mandates 35% level of women’s participation in such bodies, and the nominees to these bodies need to reflect the gender, political, social, ethnic, religious, and regional diversity of South Sudan. RJMEC takes these considerations very seriously, and as we conduct our monitoring and evaluation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, we will ensure that these parameters get the proper level of attention.  

17.        Furthermore, along with all of us here, RJMEC celebrates International Women’s Day, and will continue to support gender-focussed activities such as this one. I sincerely thank the organisers of this event, and I look forward to hearing about how the workshop’s outcomes will contribute to the effective implementation of the Peace Agreement Roadmap in general, and the gender provisions in particular. 

18.        I wish you all a fruitful and successful workshop.

I Thank You.

With International Women’s Day taking place on Wednesday 8 March, access to power, inclusivity and effective participation for women in the implementation of the Revitalised peace agreement remain a challenge. 

Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

Monday, 06 March, Juba, South Sudan

ACCESS TO POWER, LACK OF INCLUSIVE AND EFFECTIVE PARTICIPATION IN THE PEACE PROCESS, POSE A CHALLENGE FOR WOMEN IN SOUTH SUDAN. 

With International Women’s Day taking place on Wednesday 8 March, access to power, inclusivity and effective participation for women in the implementation of the Revitalised peace agreement remain a challenge. 

Speaking during a workshop convened by the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring & Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) in collaboration with the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) and the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), RJMEC Chairperson, Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai said: 

“In spite of the fact that Security Council Resolution 1325 on the role of women in conflict resolution and peace processes, which calls for the adoption of gender perspectives, especially of women’s and girls’ needs in peace agreements, and their implementation mechanisms, and for the protection and respect of their rights, women continue to face obstacles in the realisation of this aspiration, and do so during the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement."

The UNSCR 1325, which was passed in the year 2000, is the first resolution to link women’s experiences of conflict to the international peace and security agenda, focusing attention on the disproportionate impact of conflict on women, and calling for women’s engagement in conflict resolution and peace building. 

In his address to the participants, Amb. Gituai noted that  lack to proper access to power, inclusivity and effective participation in the peace process and gender bias, continue to hinder advancement of women in South Sudan.

Unless such challenges are adequately addressed, he said, perspectives and concerns of women will be overlooked in politics as well as in the implementation of the Roadmap of the R-ARCSS. “This therefore, calls for women to be respected and not to be ignored or undermined, and women should be assertive in making their voices heard,” he said.

Additionally, as the Revitilised Transitional Government of National Unity continues to implement the Roadmap, Amb. Gituai called for the inclusion of women in key intstitutions such as the Political Parties Council, the National Elections Commission and the National Constitutional Review Commission. 

Also related to the Constitution-making process., he said, is the establishment of the Preparatory Sub-Committee for the National Constitutional Conference, and recruitment of the Constitutional Drafting Committee.  

Amb. Gituai said, the gender provisions of the Agreement enhances the inclusion and empowerment of women, as they cover the participation and representation of women in decision‐making positions, in all governmental bodies, and institutions and mechanisms that drive political, economic, social and judicial reforms, as well as the constitution-making process. 

“This remains equally valid and important in the Roadmap,” he said.

The Agreement mandates 35% level of women’s participation in such bodies, and the nominees to these bodies need to reflect the gender, political, social, ethnic, religious, and regional diversity of South Sudan.

“RJMEC takes these considerations very seriously, and as we conduct our monitoring and evaluation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, we will ensure that these parameters get the proper level of attention,” Amb. Gituai said.

Amb. Gituai noted provisions in the Revitalised Peace Agreement which refer to the prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls, including measures to prevent gender-based violence in general and sexual violence in particular. 

Further, he continued, “it is evident that the letter and spirit of the gender provisions in the Revitalized 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.” 

In his conclusion, Amb. Gituai called for the recognition of the role and value of women in all aspects. “Women are capable in decision-making, especially those affecting the social fabric and the environment, and they share information well. They bring additional perspectives, especially on issues that affect other women and girls. Women also provide holistic approaches and dimensions in today’s complex and evolving challenges in all spheres,” he said.

The workshop brought together over 60 South Sudanese women under the theme “understanding the Roadmap and women’s participation in implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).” 

ENDS

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) on Thursday 2 March 2023 convened its 27th monthly meeting in Juba. As the 24-month extension of the Transitional Period begins, RJMEC Chairperson Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai told the meeting: 

Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

Thursday, 02 March, Juba, South Sudan

WITH THE BEGINNING OF 24-MONTH EXTENDED TRANSITIONAL PERIOD, IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ROADMAP LAGS BEHIND, A LOT REMAINS TO BE DONE

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) on Thursday 2 March 2023 convened its 27th monthly meeting in Juba. As the 24-month extension of the Transitional Period begins, RJMEC Chairperson Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai told the meeting: 

“It is expected that there will be renewed focus on the timely implementation of the critical pending tasks of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), dedicated funding by the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) going forward, unity of purpose, and a sense of urgency in order to deliver on the promises of the Roadmap towards peaceful and democratic elections in December 2024.” 

In his detailed assessment of implementation, Amb. Gituai said that “critical timelines have been missed in the implementation of governance tasks of the Roadmap.” 

He continued: “For example, according to the Roadmap, by now both the Political Parties Council and the National Elections Commission should have been reconstituted. These are two critical bodies required for the process of conducting credible elections. Further, the restructuring and reconstitution of the various commissions and institutions at national level should also have been completed by now.”

“There is urgent need for all of us, starting with the RTGoNU (Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity), to take concrete and deliberate steps to expedite implementation of the critical pending tasks as per the Roadmap,” he added.

Additionally, Amb. Gituai commended the Presidency for the recent resolution of the contentious issue of the power of arrest and detention by the National Security Service, which he said, delayed the passage of the National Security Service Bill.

“The spirit of this compromise is a valuable example which I hope can help guide the ongoing implementation of the Roadmap.” Amb. Gituai also welcomed the recent accession by the President of the Republic of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, to, among others, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Protocol to The African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa. 

“The accession to these and other international and regional treaties are critical to the safeguarding of the fundamental human rights of the people of South Sudan. Their operationalisation will be important as the extension period proceeds.” 

In his address, Amb. Gituai commended the President, and the First Vice President, for their recent meetings with IDPs, saying this draws much-needed attention to the plight of the IDPs. “Both leaders emphasised the need for forgiveness, reconciliation and promoting the spirit of unity. These are key messages for two leaders to take around the country as the RTGoNU prepares for elections.” 

“It is encouraging to note that there are plans to provide security and basic services at the IDPs points of return as these are critical to the reintegration and the rebuilding of IDPs and returnees’ livelihoods,” he added.

In his conclusion, he said, “Given the time pressures in the Roadmap, I call upon the RTGoNU to demonstrate its ownership of the process and its commitment by availing the requisite resources to the implementing mechanisms and institutions in a clear and predictable manner.”

FULL STATEMENT: http://bit.ly/3kzlvv3 

ENDS

STATEMENT BY H.E. AMB. MAJ GEN (rtd) CHARLES TAI GITUAI, CBS, INTERIM CHAIRPERSON - RJMEC TO THE 27th RJMEC MONTHLY MEETING 

Thursday, 2 March 2023

Juba, South Sudan

 Honourable Ministers, 

Excellencies, 

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

10.11 – 10.27

15.49

Good morning.

1.   A warm welcome to all of you to the 27th meeting of the RJMEC. As I informed you in our last meeting in January 2023, the year 2022 closed with the South Sudan peace process high on regional and international agendas. This has continued into 2023, and in the month of February, South Sudan welcomed high level visits from the Ecumenical Peace Pilgrimage, and the African Union Peace and Security Council. 

2.   These were timely and welcome solidarity visits, indicative of the world’s desire for lasting peace in South Sudan. It is our hope that the people of South Sudan were inspired by the strong messages of peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation delivered by the Peace Pilgrimage, and that these messages and gestures of solidarity will not be in vain. It is expected that there will be renewed focus on the timely implementation of the critical pending tasks of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), dedicated funding by the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) going forward, unity of purpose, and a sense of urgency in order to deliver on the promises of the Roadmap towards peaceful and democratic elections in December 2024.

3.   It is commendable that the RTGoNU has just marked its third year of implementation of the Peace Agreement. However, as the 24-month extension period begins, I would like to underscore that the implementation of the Roadmap, ratified by the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature (TNL) late last year, is behind schedule. In particular, activities lagging behind include the unification and redeployment of forces, commencement of Phase 2, and the establishment of the institutions and mechanisms which will drive forward the constitution-making process and the preparations for elections.

4.   My statement this morning will therefore highlight the most recent developments in the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement in accordance with the Roadmap since our last Plenary. I will focus on progress made, Roadmap deadlines missed, pending tasks, and conclude with recommendations.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

5.   First, governance. The National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) has continued with the reviews, amendment and drafting of legislation as provided for in its mandate. In the past month, it has handed over to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs the Bank of South Sudan Amendment Bill, 2023, and the Banking Amendment Bill, 2023. The Chair of NCAC will provide an update later this morning. 

 6.   I would like to commend the Presidency for resolving the contentious issue which delayed the passage of the National Security Service Bill, on the power of arrest and detention by the National Security Service. The spirit of this compromise is a valuable example which I hope can help guide the ongoing implementation of the Roadmap.

7.   I welcome the accession by the President of the Republic of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, to, among others, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Protocol to The African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa. The accession to these and other international and regional treaties are critical to the safeguarding of the fundamental human rights of the people of South Sudan. Their operationalisation will be important as the extension period proceeds. 

8.   On the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC), which is established to study and recommend appropriate reforms, had its mandate extended for an additional 12 months. I hope that the Committee will now be able to complete its work in the shortest time possible. The JRC will update the meeting later this morning.  

9.   Notwithstanding the aforementioned, critical timelines have been missed in the implementation of governance tasks of the Roadmap. For example, according to the Roadmap, by now both the Political Parties Council and the National Elections Commission should have been reconstituted. These are two critical bodies required for the process of conducting credible elections. Further, the restructuring and reconstitution of the various commissions and institutions at national level should also have been completed by now. It is expected that the RTGoNU will brief the members this morning. 

10.         Next, security. No further progress has been reported with the unification of forces since the last monthly meeting. The completion of the unification of forces is a critical Roadmap task which should not be allowed to fall any further behind the timelines established by the Parties themselves. Equally important, Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) programmes to reintegrate former combatants into civilian life have not yet started. I therefore appeal to both regional and international partners to assist the RTGoNU in this effort.

11.        On the management of Cantonment Sites and preparations for Phase 2 training, it is expected that the troops will come with weapons. I would like to underscore the overall importance of the collection, registration, and storage of weapons and munitions to the Transitional Security Arrangements. I would like to hear from the relevant mechanisms on any updates regarding preparations for Phase 2, and whether there is any progress on the tasks of the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) Board. 

12.        On subnational violence, it is disappointing to hear of further incidents, such as the recent ones in Kajo Keji, Central Equatoria, and some areas close to Juba. Furthermore, violence has also been reported in Twic East County in Jonglei, as well as in Lakes State. In these cases, the loss of life and the displacement of civilians often results. As I have stressed before, it is the responsibility of the RTGoNU to restore permanent and sustainable peace, security, and stability. To that end, I welcome the announcement by the President on the resumption of the Rome peace process. I would also like to underscore the importance of reaching sustainable solutions for all incidents of subnational violence, as the RTGONU prepares for elections period.

13.        With regards to CTSAMVM, it is disappointing that its Monitoring and Verification Teams are unable to operate as per their mandate due to the non-payment of 10 months’ allowances of the National Monitors, which has led to their boycott. CTSAMVM plays an instrumental role in monitoring and reporting on compliance and violations of the permanent ceasefire and the transitional security arrangements. The reports it produces are objective, impartial and balanced, and are a collective effort by all the Parties, including the International Observers from the IGAD countries. As such, these reports build confidence and trust among the Parties to the Agreement, and the RTGoNU has a responsibility to ensure their members play their part. In addition, I am informed that the members of the other security mechanisms, the NCAC and the JRC, have also not been facilitated. I therefore appeal to the RTGoNU to immediately provide funds for the payment of CTSAMVM’s National Monitors, and the national members of all the Agreement mechanisms.  

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

14.        On humanitarian affairs, the NGO Act 2016 is under review by the NCAC to conform to international standards and best practices. It is expected that the review of the NGO Act 2016 will help regularise and improve the operational environment for NGOs and humanitarian workers. The NCAC will provide more details.

15.        I would like to commend H.E. the President, and H.E. the First Vice President, for their recent meetings with IDPs, which draw much-needed attention to the plight of the IDPs. Both leaders emphasised the need for forgiveness, reconciliation and promoting the spirit of unity. These are key messages for two leaders to take around the country as the RTGoNU prepares for elections. It is encouraging to note that there are plans to provide security and basic services at the IDPs points of return as these are critical to the reintegration and the rebuilding of IDPs and returnees’ livelihoods. This undertaking lends urgency to the setting up of the much-delayed Special Reconstruction Fund and Board, which will pave the way for the pledging conference.

16.        On resource, economic and financial management, despite some progress registered in Public Finance Management (PFM) reforms, the amendment bills which should govern these reforms, submitted by the NCAC to the RTGoNU beginning in June 2022, have not yet been enacted into law. These bills include the Anti-Corruption Commission Bill, the National Audit Chamber Bill, the Public Financial Management and Accountability Bill, and the Petroleum Revenue Management Bill. It is important that these bills should be enacted and operationalised to underpin the PFM reform process outlined in the Roadmap. 

17.        In the management of natural resources, progress has been registered in policies and programmes related to petroleum, agriculture, wildlife and tourism and environmental protection. However, I would like to urge the RTGoNU to finalise the review, legislation and implementation of the Land Policy and the Land Act 2008, as this would address land administration challenges, including the resettlement of the IDPs and refugees.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

18.        In terms of transitional justice, I am informed that the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs has drafted bills on the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH), and Compensation and Reparation Authority (CPA), and will conduct a stakeholder consultation on these two bills at the end of March 2023. With the February visit of the African Union Peace and Security Council, I hope that some progress will be made regarding the establishment of the Hybrid Court of South Sudan (HCSS), which is the responsibility of the African Union Commission and the RTGoNU.

19.        Regarding the making of the Permanent Constitution, the Constitution-making Process Act 2022 is yet to be operationalised. Several timelines have already been missed as per the Act. By now, the Parties and Stakeholders should have submitted their lists of nominees to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to reconstitute the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) and establish the Preparatory Sub-Committee (PSC). In addition, the recruitment of members to the Constitutional Drafting Committee (CDC) should be ongoing. These delays seriously undermine the progress of the entire constitution-making process, and consequently, the elections. 

 Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

20.        In RJMEC’s assessment, the RTGoNU is already way behind its own schedule set out in the Roadmap, and a lot of work remains to be done. There is urgent need for all of us, starting with the RTGoNU, to take concrete and deliberate steps to expedite implementation of the critical pending tasks as per the Roadmap. As RJMEC members, we should reconsider our current approaches and avail the requisite support to the implementation of the Peace Agreement with a focus on accelerating progress.

21.        Therefore, I would like to make the following recommendations to the RTGoNU:

a)   Provide adequate funding of the Roadmap tasks in a clear and predictable manner;

b)   Operationalise all the enacted laws, particularly those related to the permanent constitution and elections processes, to expedite the reconstitution of the Political Parties Council and the establishment of the bodies required by the Constitution-Making Process Act 2022, and expedite the enactment of the National Elections Bill; 

c)    Expedite the redeployment of the graduated forces, the harmonisation of ranks of the mid and lower-level commanders, the commencement of Phase 2 of unification of forces, the collection and management of weapons and munitions, and Demobilisation, Disarmament, and Reintegration (DDR);

d)   Facilitate the National Members of CTSAMVM to return to work, and pay allowances of all national members in the Agreement mechanisms;

e)   Facilitate the resettlement, reintegration and the rebuilding of livelihoods of returnees and IDPs;

f)     Enact and operationalise all PFM-related bills to facilitate the reforms and to improve transparency and accountability; and

g)   Complete the process of drafting the CTRH and CRA legislation and submit to the reconstituted TNL for enactment. 

 22.        In conclusion, the renewed commitment of the RTGoNU to implement the Roadmap in letter and spirit, as expressed at its press conference of 21st February, marking the start of the 24-month extension of the Transitional Period, is encouraging. Given the time pressures in the Roadmap, I call upon the RTGoNU to demonstrate its ownership of the process and its commitment by availing the requisite resources to the implementing mechanisms and institutions. I also appeal to all partners and friends of South Sudan to support the RTGoNU’s efforts to facilitate progress.

I Thank You.

BY AMB. MAJ. GEN. CHARLES TAI GITUAI

Formed in February 2020, the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) is now entering its fourth year of work. The peace agreement, the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), was signed almost 4 ½ years ago, in September 2018. 

PRESS RELEASE

07 FEBRUARY 2023

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) condemns the killing of over 20 people in Kajo Keji, Central Equatoria State, on 2 February 2023. The violence and displacement of civilians is unacceptable, particularly when the strong hope of the people of South Sudan is that the messages of peace delivered by the Ecumenical Peace Pilgrimage will inspire implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement at greater pace and scale. RJMEC urges the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) to investigate, and to hold perpetrators accountable.

The events in Kajo Keji fit into a larger and very concerning picture of violence at the subnational level across South Sudan, and RJMEC reiterates its position recently given at its monthly Plenary: 

“There is a very serious picture of escalating violence, negatively impacting the environment in which the R-ARCSS is being implemented. RJMEC therefore appeals to the Parties involved and the RTGoNU to address the root causes of these armed conflicts and find lasting solutions to resolve them and ensure accountability for crimes committed.”

ENDS

- Your Excellency, Ali Al-Sadig, Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Sudan and Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers;

- Your Excellencies, Members of the Council;

- Your Excellency, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of IGAD;

- Your Excellencies, IGAD Special Envoys; 

- Excellencies;

- Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good morning!

1. I am honoured and privileged to brief this Council as the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), the body responsible for overseeing, monitoring and evaluating the status of the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan of 2018.

2. My briefing today will cover the key benchmarks which have been attained in its implementation, critical tasks which remain outstanding, recurrent challenges and conclude with recommendations.

3. Despite progress registered, RJMEC has regularly expressed its concerns regarding the slow pace of progress in the implementation of the Peace Agreement. That said, the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity responded positively to RJMEC’s call to prepare a Roadmap and strategy for implementing the Agreement’s critical outstanding tasks, and revised the timeline of the Agreement. The process of the extension of the Transitional Period was done in accordance with the provisions of article 8.4 of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.  

Your Excellencies,

4. I will now provide updates on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement since my last briefing to this august Council. 

5. On Governance, the National Constitutional Amendment Committee has reviewed and drafted several amendments to the key priority legislation, including the National Audit Chamber Act, Public Finance Management and Accountability Act, Petroleum Act, Petroleum Revenue Management Act, the National Elections Act and the Anti-Corruption Commission Act.

6. In addition, the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature passed the following bills: the South Sudan People’s Defense Force Bill, the Wildlife Service Bill, the National Police Service Bill, the Political Parties Bill and the Constitution-making Process Bill. Other bills are being processed.

7. The outstanding governance tasks include the completion of reforms of national Institutions and Commissions, judicial reforms and the necessary steps towards elections at the end of the transitional period.

8. On the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements, the South Sudan unity government resolved the impasse over the Unified Command structure, including the appointments of unified Commanders in April 2022. Furthermore, approximately 49,000 out of 53,000 Necessary Unified Forces have been unified. These forces are yet to be redeployed as they are currently being accommodated in the Training Centres. 

9. There are critical outstanding Transitional Security Arrangements tasks. They include commencement of Phase 2 training of the unified forces; management of weapons and munitions brought to the cantonment areas; and funding and operationalisation of Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Commission programmes. In addition, the Strategic Defence and Security Review which is critical for security sector reforms has not yet been completed.

10. Regarding Humanitarian Assistance and Reconstruction, some humanitarian corridors remain opened and continue to facilitate free movement of goods, services and people across borders, including the voluntary return of more than 600,000 people since 2018. However, various factors have exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in the country. These include prolonged subnational violence; widespread floods; food insecurity; reduced funding and lack of basic services. Furthermore, the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund, a critical coordinating mechanism for recovery and development efforts, is long overdue. 

11. As for Resource, Economic and Financial Management, it is encouraging to note that the South Sudan unity government has initiated reforms in Public Financial Management, which include operationalization of the treasury single account, creation of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Authority and review of legislation relating to Public Financial Management. Furthermore, policy reviews and the management of natural resources, agricultural policies, strategies and programmes are underway. However, the policy for the management of the country’s waterbodies, including but not limited to the Nile River that was prioritised in the Roadmap, is yet to be developed.  

12. On Transitional Justice, the South Sudan unity government conducted public consultations to help guide the legislation for the establishment of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing. The drafting of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing Bill and the Compensation and Reparation Authority Bill are both ongoing. On the Hybrid Court for South Sudan, the responsibility for its establishment lies with the African Union Commission working with the South Sudan unity government, and this is still pending.

13. The making of the permanent constitution is critical for guiding the conduct of elections at the end of the Transitional Period. Once the Constitution-making Process Bill 2022 becomes law, the South Sudan unity government will put in place all the institutions essential in the making of the new constitution.

14. During the Roadmap phase, it is critical that the South Sudan unity government provides an enabling environment for elections, including the opening and preserving of civic and political space for all, to build confidence and participation in the process. Overall, predictable funding and adequate logistical support for the implementation of the peace agreement is critical.

Your Excellencies,

15. Since the Revitalised Peace Agreement came into force in 2018, its implementation faced several challenges. They include trust deficit among the parties; capacity gaps of Agreement institutions and mechanisms; lack of adequate and predictable funding; and limited resources for implementation. 

16. Given the requirements of the Roadmap and the extension of the Transitional Period, RJMEC has appealed for a change of strategy and approach from all actors, importantly, including IGAD, to focus on facilitating progress in the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

17. I will now conclude with recommendations to this Council as follows:

a. increase engagements with the South Sudan unity government to encourage them to expedite implementation of the Roadmap within timelines;  

b. appeal to the South Sudan unity government to urgently address the root causes of intercommunal violence and insecurity in the country;

c. further appeal to the South Sudan unity government to establish and operationalize the Special Reconstruction Fund to  pave the way for the mobilisation of resources for post-conflict recovery and reconstruction; and

d. appeal to IGAD member states and the internaitonal community to consider political, logistical and financial support to the monitoring and oversight institutions, RJMEC and CTSAMVM, to enhance their operational capabilities.

18. In conclusion, I would like to highlight that this is the time to ensure that the Revitalised Peace Agreement, being one of IGAD’s key flagship peace agreements in the region, succeeds. As the Revitalised Peace Agreement enters another critical moment, IGAD’s visibility in South Sudan is needed now more than ever.

I Thank You!

- Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council;

- Commissioner of Peace and Security; 

- Your Excellencies Permanent Representatives; 

- Excellencies;

- Ladies and Gentlemen.

Your Excellency,

1. I am honoured to once again address this Council as the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC). Since my last briefing to you, key milestones have been reached in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). Key among them were:

a. Phase 1 of the graduation of forces is nearing completion with approximately 49,000 out of 53,000 graduated; 

b. the Constitution-making Process Bill, among others, was passed by the Reconstituted Transitional National Legislature and is awaiting assent by the President; 

c. implementation of the R-ARCSS has entered its fifth year with sustained efforts towards peace, despite the many challenges; 

d. the Parties have all agreed on a 24-month extension of the Transitional Period with a clear Roadmap to a Peaceful and Democratic Elections at the end; 

e. the RJMEC pronounced itself on the Roadmap with clear recommendations on steps to be taken in order to ensure that critical tasks outlined in the Roadmap are implemented as scheduled. 

2. In spite of this progress, some critical tasks remain outstanding.   

3. In my briefing today, I will therefore only highlight the key issues which require this Council’s attention and conclude with recommendations.

Your Excellency,

4. Since my last briefing, the timeframe of the Revitalised Peace Agreement has been extended by 24 months, effective February 2023, in accordance with the “Agreement on the Roadmap to a Peaceful and Democratic end to the Transitional Period of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan”, hereafter referred to as ‘the Roadmap’. 

5. Pursuant to article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS, the Roadmap was agreed to by the Parties on 4th August, endorsed by the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) Council of Ministers on 5th August, consented to by RJMEC on 1st September 2022 and ratified by the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature on 16th November 2022. Even with the extension, however, there is much to do and time is already pressing.

Your Excellency,

6. I will now give an update on the status of implementation, chapter-by-chapter. First, on Governance. The Reconstituted Transitional National Legislature passed several pieces of legislation, importantly the South Sudan People’s Defence Force Bill, the Wildlife Service Bill, the National Police Service Bill, Political Parties Bill and the Constitution-making Process Bill.

7. The National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) continues with the reviews and drafting of amendment bills. To date, the NCAC has completed drafting amendment bills of the National Audit Chamber Act, Public Finance Management and Accountability Act, Petroleum Act, Petroleum Revenue Management Act, the National Elections Act and the Anti-Corruption Commission Act.

8. The restructuring and reconstitution of the Institutions and Commissions at the national level is work in progress. The reforms include streamlining their mandates and appointments to ensure their independence and accountability in accordance with the law, taking into consideration inclusivity, national diversity and gender.

9. On the permanent ceasefire and transitional security arrangements, the graduation of the first batch of the Necessary Unified Forces is nearing completion with approximately 49,000 forces out of the expected 53,000 graduated. The unified forces now need to be redeployed, and this overdue. I am concerned that the graduated unified forces have been returned to the Training Centres, which is delaying the commencement of Phase 2 training. Furthermore, the unified forces are not being remunerated. We expect the RTGoNU to take appropriate action.

10. There are security related tasks yet to be undertaken, including finalising the Strategic Defence and Security Review documents, availing clear and predictable funding for the DDR Commission and its programmes, and a clear plan for the management of weapons and munitions collected from all forces. 

Your Excellency, 

11. Regarding humanitarian assistance and reconstruction, the opening of some humanitarian corridors has facilitated free movement of goods services and people across borders, including voluntary returns. According to UNHCR, more than 600,000 people have returned since 2018. 

12. However, the magnitude and severity of humanitarian needs in the country have continued to rise due to the effect of prolonged subnational violence, widespread flooding, food insecurity, decline in funding and lack of the provision of basic services, particularly the conflict-affected population. There are also concerns related to safety of humanitarian workers and their assets as well as access to those in need.

13. The critical outstanding tasks include the establishment of Special Reconstruction Fund (SRF) and its Board, the requisite USD 100 million funding per annum from the RTGoNU and the review of the NGO Act 2016.  In this regard, I have urged the RTGoNU to expedite the establishment of the SRF to pave the way for the Pledging Conference, pursuant to the 1060th AU PSC Communique. 

14. On Resource, Economic and Financial Management, some progress has been registered in policy reviews and the management of natural resources as required by the Revitalised Peace Agreement. Agricultural policies, strategies and programmes are being developed, and the National Land Policy is being finalised. However, the policy for the management of South Sudan’s waterbodies, including but not limited to the River Nile that was prioritised in the Roadmap, is yet to be developed.  

15. The Strategic Economic Development Roadmap was reviewed and aligned with the R-ARCSS and is being implemented and prioritises the security, humanitarian, and development nexus. It also focuses on devolution of powers and resources which is being operationalised with the development of State plans for all the ten states and three Administrative Areas.

16. The legal and institutional framework for the Youth and Women Enterprise Development Funds for the vulnerable private sector are being developed and the South Sudan Pension Fund (SSPF) has been operationalised but needs to broaden its coverage beyond civil service to include the wider public and private sectors.

17. The Public Financial Management reforms namely, the operationalization of the treasury single account, creation of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Authority, the enactment of legislations relating to Public Financial Management have been slow and need to be prioritised.    

18. In terms of transitional justice, the RTGoNU has conducted public consultations to help guide the legislation establishing the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH). The drafting of the CTRH Bill and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) Bill are both ongoing. On the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS), the responsibility for its establishment lies with the African Union Commission (AUC) working with the RTGoNU, and this is still pending. I urge the AUC to expedite the process leading to the establishment  of the Court.

19. The making of the permanent constitution is critical for the conduct of elections at the end of the transitional period. In this regard, the Constitution-making Process Bill 2022 was passed by the Transitional National Legislature and awaits assent by the President. Once the Bill becomes law, it will pave the way for the reconstitution of the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC), recruitment of the Constitutional Drafting Committee (CDC) and appointment of the Preparatory Sub-Committee (PSC) which will be responsible for the convening of the National Constitutional Conference. These bodies are critical in the making of the new constitution to guide the conduct of elections at the end of the Transitional Period and their establishment is long overdue.

20. During this Roadmap phase, it is also critical that the RTGoNU provides an enabling environment for elections, including the opening and preserving of civic and political space for all, to build confidence and participation in the process. Overall, predictable funding and adequate logistical support for the implementation of the peace agreement is critical.

Your Excellency,

21. Since the Revitalised Peace Agreement came into force in 2018, its implementation faced several challenges. These include trust deficit among the parties; capacity gaps of Agreement institutions and mechanisms; lack of adequate and predictable funding; limited resources for implementation; flooding; and activities of the holdout groups and subnational violence.

22. Depite the above challenges, the Roadmap provides an opportunity for creating the conditions necessary for the conduct of peaceful and democratic elections at the end of the Transitional Period. This requires changes in strategies and approaches from the parties, South Sudanese stakeholders, the regional guarantors and international partners and friends of South Sudan. There is need for the RTGoNU to, inter alia, demonstrate the urgency, unity of purpose, commitment, extra effort and political will required to implement the tasks outlined in the Roadmap as scheduled. The regional guarantors and international community should enhance their approaches in engaging the RTGoNU and the various Agreement Institutions and Commissions with a strong focus in facilitating progress.

1. I will now conclude with my recommendations to this august Council. The Peace and Security Council to:

a. engage the RTGoNU to adhere to the Roadmap timelines and prioritise their implementation through the availing of predictable, timely and adequate funding for all tasks; 

b. urge the AU Commission to provide political, technical, and logistical support to the RTGoNU during the implementation of the Permanent Constitution-making process and elections;

c. encourage the RTGoNU to ensure civic and political space are guaranteed and protected throughout the country;

d. urge the AU Commission and member states to support the RTGoNU with expertise and resources needed to support the DDR process and the management of weapon and munitions stockpiles;

e. engage with the RTGONU to kickstart the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund and its Board to pave the way for the convening of the South Sudan pledging conference;

f. urge the AU Commission to expedite the process for the establishment of the Hybrid Court for South Sudan; and 

g. appeal to the RTGoNU to fast track the establishment and operationalisation and funding of the CTRH and CRA.

2. Finally, there is need for us all (IGAD, AU and UN) to consolidate our efforts, speak with one voice, and bring our collective leverage to bear and push for timely implementation of the Roadmap.

I Thank You!

With the expected visit of Ecumenical Peace Pilgrimage of three religious leaders, led by His Holiness, Pope Francis to the Republic of South Sudan early next month, the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has urged the leadership of the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU), the Parties, and the people of South Sudan to “renew their confidence in the peace process, rebuild trust and demonstrate genuine political will and unity of purpose, with the spirit of forgiveness and magnanimity.