The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today Wednesday August 14, 2024 briefed virtually the 9705th meeting of United Nations Security Council.

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) on Thursday 8 August, 2024 convened its 37th monthly meeting in Juba.

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today Tuesday August 6, 2024, addressed the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA). 

-       President of the UN Security Council,

-       Distinguished Members of the Council,

-       Excellencies,

-       Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Mr President,

1.    I congratulate you and the Republic of Sierra Leone for assuming the presidency of the Security Council this month. May I also thank you for inviting the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) to address this esteemed Council.

2.    RJMEC is the official oversight body responsible for overseeing, monitoring and evaluating the status of the implementation of the 2018 Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan.

3.    Next month, South Sudan marks six years since the signing of the Revitalised Agreement, its longest period of relative peace and stability since independence in 2011. However, since then, the pace of implementation has been slow.

4.    Despite the extension of the Transitional Period by 24 months, key tasks such as completion of the unification of forces, making of the permanent constitution, and various elections-related preparatory tasks are still outstanding.

5.    My briefing today builds on previous RJMEC reports to this Council, and will therefore highlight our assessment of the status of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

Mr President,

6.    In terms of governance, the Executive and Legislature have continued to convene regularly and discharge their respective mandates at the national and state levels.

7.    In preparation for elections, the Political Parties Council has adopted a Code of Conduct, and registered 29 political parties, but concerns exist regarding the procedures followed, and the registration fees. The National Elections Commission has reconstituted the State level High Committees, but there are concerns about criteria used, and gender representation.

8.    With regards to the prospects of elections, an inter-party Committee reviewed the Roadmap implementation, and submitted its report to the Principals, who met yesterday, 13 August. In response, the Parties to the Agreement by consensus have tasked the relevant institutions and the inter-party Committee to develop a realistic timetable for elections. It is expected that the timetable will be accompanied by a budget and guaranteed funding.

9.    In terms of the Transitional Security Arrangements, the permanent ceasefire continues to hold, which is commendable. Approximately 55,000 of the 83,000 Phase 1 Unified Forces were trained and graduated. Since then, eight battalions of the army component have been deployed, with the remainder still not yet deployed.

10.    In addition, 2,995 non-commissioned police officers of the Unified Forces were recently appointed into the South Sudan National Police Service and await deployment. Phase 2 training of the Unified Forces and the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration process have yet to commence.

11.    Regarding the ongoing Nairobi talks, also known as Tumaini Initiative, the Revitalised Agreement Parties have directed that outcomes should align with the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

12.    On humanitarian affairs, the situation in the country remains challenged by food insecurity, flooding, and the influx of refugees and returnees from Sudan. Importantly, the Special Reconstruction Fund provided for in the Agreement, intended to mobilise resources to support humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in South Sudan, has not yet been established.

13.    The resource, economic and financial management reforms continue, albeit at a slow pace. On the other hand, the economic situation continues to worsen, compounded by a reduction in oil revenue. Much of the population is in distress due to rising commodity prices, a decline in the value of the South Sudan Pound, and reduced purchasing power.

14.    The bills for the establishment of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing and the Compensation and Reparation Authority, are still in Parliament. These institutions are intended to drive forward the much-needed process for reconciliation and healing in South Sudan.

15.    In terms of the Permanent Constitution making process, the National Constitutional Review Commission has made strides to enhance its internal readiness. However, key tasks, which include civic education and public consultations, have not substantively begun.

Mr President,

16.    The main challenges in the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement include insufficient political will, trust deficit among the Parties, capacity gaps, and persistent levels of intercommunal violence in the states. Furthermore, all the Agreement institutions and mechanisms have insufficient and unpredictable funding which is hampering their work.

17.   Nonetheless, the Revitalised Agreement has contributed to relative peace, inclusive governance structures, and the ongoing legal, security and economic reforms. It is evident that the Revitalised Agreement remains the most viable blueprint and transformative framework for achieving enduring peace and prosperity.

18.  I therefore appeal to this Council to remain seized of the peace process in South Sudan and to encourage the international community to mobilise resources and political support for full implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan. I Thank You. 

Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

Thursday, 8 August 2024

LACK OF ADEQUATE ELECTIONS PREPAREDNESS, LACK OF PROGRESS IN THE UNIFICATION OF FORCES CAUSING ANXIETY

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) on Thursday 8 August, 2024 convened its 37th monthly meeting in Juba.

In his address to the meeting, RJMEC Chairperson, Ambassador Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai said: 

“With barely five months left before elections as scheduled in the Roadmap, the lack of adequate elections preparedness and the lack of progress in the unification of forces is causing anxiety among the population of South Sudan.”

The RJMEC Chairperson continued: “It is important, therefore, that the Principals of the Parties to the Agreement meet, consider the report of the High Level Standing Committee, and provide clarity on the way forward.”

As such, the RJMEC Chairperson welcomed the report from the Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Hon. Dr Martin Elia Lomuro, that the Presidency is expected to meet on Wednesday 14 August, to deliberate on the way forward. 

While providing updates on the status of implementation of the Revitilised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), the Chairperson noted that  the Permanent Ceasefire continues to hold.

“However, sporadic episodes of intercommunal violence, such as in Unity, Jonglei, and Lakes State, continue to be concerning,” he said, which is compounded by some security-related incidents in Juba.

The RJMEC Chairperson then drew the attention of RJMEC members to the lack of sufficient funding for the full deployment of the graduated forces, and the commencement of Phase II training for the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF).

“As troops wait in Training Centres and Cantonment Sites, they lack food, medicines, shelter and clean water. As a result, most troops have left their bases in search of food and other necessities. Also pending is the finalisation of the unification of the middle command echelon of the NUF.”

Amb. Gituai called on the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) to provide the Agreement institutions and mechanisms with the requisite resources and logistics to enable them to discharge their mandates, including completion of the redeployment of the unified forces.

In his adddress, the Chairperson also encouraged the Parties to the Agreement to pay due consideration to the 35% minimum threshold of women’s representation in the executive and other decision-making bodies as stipulated in the Revitalised Agreement.

-      Honourable Ministers, 

-       Excellencies, 

-       Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning!

1.   I welcome you all to the 37th plenary meeting of the RJMEC. Since we last met, South Sudan has marked its thirteenth independence anniversary. It was encouraging that H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan, in his address marking Independence Day, assured the people of South Sudan that his government will leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of tangible peace and prosperity.

2.   The work of building the Republic of South Sudan continues, with elections scheduled this December, in accordance to the Roadmap. However, as I noted in the last statement to this plenary, very little clarity exists regarding the position of the RTGoNU and the Parties over the conduct of elections, and implementation of critical elections related tasks remain outstanding. We meet today with this still being the case. 

3.   My statement will therefore focus on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement as per the Roadmap since our last plenary meeting, highlighting recent developments chapter by chapter, critical pending tasks, and concludes with recommendations.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

4.   Under governance, the RTGoNU Council of Ministers and the reconstituted Transitional National Legislature have continued to convene regularly and discharge their respective mandates. In July 2024, the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) passed some pieces of legislation, including the National Security Service Bill 2024, the National Bureau of Statistics Act 2018 (Amendment) Bill 2024 and the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Act 2012 (Amendment) Bill 2024.

5.   However, the issue of the National Security Services Bill 2024 is concerning. This Bill was passed by the TNLA with the contentious provisions, Articles 54 and 55, retaining the powers of the National Security Services to arrest without a warrant and detain suspects. It was subsequently forwarded to the President for assent, who I understand requested a legal opinion from the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. I would like to hear an update from the RTGoNU on the status of the Bill.

6.   Regarding the inter-party dialogue, the High Level Standing Committee of the Parties Signatory to the R-ARCSS confirmed that it had submitted its review of progress on the implementation of the Roadmap to the Presidency, which is expected to pronounce itself on the way forward. I request the RTGoNU to provide an update on this matter. 

7.   In terms of preparations for the conduct of elections as scheduled, since our last meeting, I am informed that the National Elections Commission (NEC) has conducted an induction of its newly reconstituted States High Committees. However, some concerns were raised regarding the process by which the list of the members of the High Committees was derived, and a lack of adherence to the 35% minimum threshold of women’s representation.

8.   According to the R-ARCSS, the NEC was expected to complete and publish the voter register within six months prior to the holding of elections, a deadline that has already passed. I await an update from the Chair of the NEC.

9.   I would like to underscore the importance of proper preparations and funding of the Political Parties Council (PPC) and the National Elections Commission (NEC), so that they can discharge their mandates.

10.               The High-Level Mediation for South Sudan, also known as the Tumaini Initiative, has been taking place in Nairobi, Kenya. The talks were launched with the goal of mediating between the RTGoNU and the Non-Signatory Opposition Groups in order to bring them into the peace process. We await an update from the RTGoNU about the status of these talks.

11.               Regarding judicial reforms, there has been no further progress towards the finalisation and handover of the report of the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC). Judicial reforms mandated by the R-ARCSS include: (a) the review of the Judiciary Act; (b) building the capacity of judicial personnel and infrastructure; (c) reconstitution of the Judicial Service Commission; and (d) establishment of an independent, impartial and credible Constitutional Court.

12.               With regard to the 35% minimum threshold of women’s representation in the executive and other decision-making bodies as stipulated in the Revitalised Agreement, I would like to underscore that whenever a female incumbent is to be replaced, the Parties to the Agreement are encouraged to pay due consideration to this requirement.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

13.               The Permanent Ceasefire continues to hold. However, sporadic episodes of intercommunal violence, such as in Unity, Jonglei, and Lakes State, continue to be concerning. Furthermore, this is compounded by some security-related incidents in Juba. In Central Equatoria State, CTSAMVM reports indicate an increase in the abduction of youth allegedly by NAS of Gen Thomas Cirillo. I would like to hear from the JDB about efforts in addressing these security issues.

14.               On the Transitional Security Arrangements, there has been little progress regarding the deployment of the remaining Phase I graduates and the commencement of Phase II Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) training. On 16 July 2024, the Inspector General of Police issued an order for the appointment into the South Sudan National Police Service of 2995 Non-Commissioned Officers, who are part of the NUF, currently stationed at the Rajaf Training Centre. However, it is not clear when the officers will be commissioned and deployed. 

15.               All the security mechanisms report lack of funding as the main obstacle to the full deployment of the graduated forces, and the commencement of Phase II training for the NUF. As troops wait in Training Centres and Cantonment Sites, they lack food, medicines, shelter and clean water. As a result, most troops have left their bases in search of food and other necessities. Also pending is the finalisation of the unification of the middle command echelon of the NUF. I request the RTGoNU and the JDB to update this plenary on the latest developments on this matter. I would also request confirmation from the JDB regarding the deployment of two additional battalions of NUF, as recently reported by CTSAMVM.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

16.               With regard to humanitarian affairs, the situation in the country remains challenged by food insecurity, and the influx of refugees and returnees from Sudan, which has now reached over 750,000, according to UNOCHA. The situation is expected to be exacerbated by floods which are projected to affect up to 3.3 million people country wide, 1.8 million of whom are children. However, with the Humanitarian Response Plan funded at only around 20%, there is a need for concerted effort and more funding from the RTGoNU and partners to manage the crisis.

17.               Concerning Chapter 4 on the management of economic and financial resources, in light of the global economic downturn, the work of restoring sustainable peace in South Sudan is made much harder by the negative impact on the population of increasing commodity prices, the declining South Sudan Pound, and reduced purchasing power. It is important therefore for the RTGoNU to prioritise public financial and economic management reforms as set out in Chapter 4 which address these challenges, among others.

18.               Though the laws governing the Bank of South Sudan and those of other bank and non-bank institutions have been passed, the relevant regulations for these institutions need to be developed, in accordance with Article 4.2.2.2 of the R-ARCSS, which states that the Bank of South Sudan shall “be responsible for formulating monetary policy, promoting price stability, issuing currency, regulating the financial sector, and performing other functions conferred upon it by the law.” Doing so would strengthen the financial system, thus enabling the Central Bank to perform its primary function of maintaining price stability. 

19.               Furthermore, Public Financial Management practices need to be brought in line with the resource, economic and financial management provisions of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, notably on public expenditure, borrowing and public finance management.  For example, I would urge that the payroll biometric system is finalised as a way of streamlining the payment of all government employees, as per Article 4.12.1.2 of the R-ARCSS.

20.           Similarly, strengthening and resourcing the oversight institutions, the Anti-Corruption Commission and the National Audit Chamber, as well as operationalising the Public Financial Management and Accountability Act 2024, will help South Sudan achieve sustainable development by promoting accountability and transparency.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

21.          Regarding transitional justice, the Bills for the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) remain with the TNLA, and they have passed their third readings. I urge the TNLA to expedite their enactment.

22.         In terms of the permanent constitution making process, there is no significant progress to report since our last plenary. As you may recall, in our last meeting we welcomed the disbursement by the RTGoNU of the SSP equivalent to US $800,000 to the reconstituted National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) to commence its activities. We therefore look forward to receiving an update from the Chairperson of the NCRC on progress it has made in terms of its mandate and the permanent constitution making process.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

23.       RJMEC has held a number of important engagements, here in Juba and within the region on the status of implementation of the R-ARCSS. I recently met H.E. Dr Riek Machar, First Vice President, as well as H.E. Hussein Abdelbagi, Vice President, on issues related to the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement. Additionally, I met the Chief Mediator of the Tumaini talks in Nairobi to discuss the peace process.

24.               Earlier this week, I briefed the TNLA as per Article 7.9 of the R-ARCSS on the second quarterly RJMEC report of 2024, the focus of which was on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, including the constitution making and election processes, the continuing challenges facing implementation, and recommendations. The briefing was welcomed, and the report was committed to the Committee for Peace and Reconciliation for further consideration.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

25.    In view of the aforementioned, RJMEC has the following recommendations to the RTGoNU:

a.   the Principals of the Parties to urgently consider the report of the High Level Standing Committee and provide clarity on the way forward for the Peace Agreement;

b.   provide the Agreement institutions and mechanisms with the requisite resources and logistics to enable them to discharge their mandates; 

c.    complete the redeployment of the unified forces, including the unification of the mid-level command echelon, and commence Phase II training and the DDR; and

d.   expedite the passage of the National Audit Chamber Act, which was submitted to the TNLA in November 2022, to promote transparency and accountability in public service and administration. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

26.               In conclusion, with barely five months left before elections as scheduled in the Roadmap, the lack of adequate elections preparedness and the lack of progress in the unification of forces is causing anxiety among the population of South Sudan, which is already under pressure from the current difficult economic situation. It is important, therefore, that the Principals of the Parties to the Agreement meet, consider the report of the High Level Standing Committee, and provide clarity on the way forward.

I wish you fruitful deliberations.

I Thank You!

Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

Tuesday, 06 August 2024

FAILURE TO IMPLEMENT CRITICAL TASKS OF THE R-ARCSS HINDERS THE PROSPECTS OF FREE, FAIR AND CREDIBLE ELECTIONS

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today Tuesday August 6, 2024, addressed the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA). 

In his address delievered pursuant to Article 7.9 of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), RJMEC Chairperson, Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai highlighted “insufficient progress” made in implementation of the Agreement during the reporting period, which was the second quarter of 2024.

“In RJMEC’s assessment, there has been insufficient progress made in implementation of the R-ARCSS during the reporting period. Key tasks, such as the permanent constitution making, preparations for elections, and the unification of forces, remain largely at the same stage as they were at the end of the previous quarter,” he said. 

The Chairperson further cautioned that failure to move forward on these key aspects of the implementation hinders the prospects of holding of elections, scheduled for at the end of the Transitional Period. 

“However, while it is encouraging that at least partial funding has been availed to the National Elections Commission (NEC), the Political Parties Council (PPC) and the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC), key institutions that will play major roles in the constitution and election processes, more resources are needed.”

Similarly, the level of resources made available to these institutions fall well short of their proposed budgets, hampering their ability to complete the required tasks in line with the R-ARCSS, he said. 

Further, Amb. Gituai stressed the need “for a people-led and a people-owned permanent constitution made in accordance with provisions of the Constitution Making Process Act 2022,” as the basis to guide the conduct of a credible free, fair and peaceful election at the end of the Transitional Period. 

In his conclusion, with elections scheduled for December, Amb. Gituai said it is hoped that the dialogue by the Parties to the Agreement will bring clarity on the best way forward. 

  TO THE RECONSTITUTED TRANSITIONAL NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY, JULY 2024, JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN

-     Rt Honourable Speaker,

-     Rt Honourable Deputy Speakers,

-     Honourable Members,

-     Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good morning.

1.    I welcome this opportunity 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.    Recently, South Sudan marked the thirteenth year anniversary since independence in 2011. Independence Day is always an important milestone to note because it brought to an end the years of struggle so that the world’s newest nation may enjoy the fruits of freedom, including lasting peace, stability and development. At the end of this year, in December 2024, according to the Revitalised Peace Agreement, and the Roadmap, elections are due to be held, an event long-desired by the people of South Sudan where they may freely choose their leaders. 

5.    This briefing is a summary of the RJMEC Quarterly Report covering the period from 1st April to 30th June 2024, and highlights the slow progress made in implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, critical pending tasks, and challenges. It will note that while some progress has been made in establishing the key institutions charged with the conduct of the constitution-making and elections processes, a lot remains to be done to fully equip them to carry out their mandates for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections. It is hoped that the dialogue by the Parties to the Agreement should help bring clarity on the best way forward.

Right Hon. Speaker, Honorable Members,

6.    Under governance, some progress was made during the quarter. In terms of elections preparedness, the National Elections Commission (NEC) confirmed that it received the SSP equivalent of US $15 million from the RTGoNU as part of the pre-elections budget. Subsequently, the NEC has been able to undertake some preparatory activities, and in June 2024, it reconstituted the State Elections High Committees at the sub-national levels. However, the list of the Committees has been contested internally by some of the members of the Commission. There are also concerns that the list does not adhere to the 35% minimum threshold for women membership.

7.    The Political Parties Council (PPC) received the SSP equivalent US $5 million from the RTGoNU to enable it to commence preparatory activities. It should be recalled that in February 2024, the PPC commenced the registration of political parties, and in June 2024, announced the cut-off date was end of June 2024. As of 27 June 2024, some 29 political parties are registered, though there is still discontent about US $75,000 registration fee.

8.    During this reporting period, this august House passed the Public Finance Management and Accountability Act 2021 (Amendment) Act 2024, which now awaits assent by the President. Several amendment bills are still before this House, including the National Audit Chambers Act 2012 (Amendment) Bill, 2022 and the Tourism Bill 2024. It is hoped that these Bills are dealt with in a timely manner.

9.    It is encouraging to note that the RTGoNU Council of Ministers endorsed the NGO Act 2016 (Amendment) Bill 2024, which seeks to streamline the operations of NGOs and improve on their registration and regulations. 

10. At the end of June, the High-Level Standing Committee completed its review of the Roadmap with a view to determining the best way forward given the time remaining before the holding of elections and prepared a report with recommendations, which it submitted to the Presidency for consideration.

11. In Nairobi, Kenya, on 9 May 2024, the High-Level Mediation for South Sudan, also known as the Tumaini Initiative, was launched with the goal of mediating between the RTGoNU and the Non-Signatory Opposition Groups in order to bring them into the peace process. The High-Level Mediation has also included discussion on the root causes of the conflict in South Sudan and seeks to recommend appropriate constitutional, legal and policy reforms that will help restore lasting and sustainable peace in the country. 

12. The Tumaini draft consensus negotiating document generated concerns, including from the First Vice President, H.E. Dr Riek Machar, over its lack of focus, duplication of the R-ARCSS provisions, and for purporting to replace the R-ARCSS. These concerns were addressed to the Tumaini Mediation with a clear call to anchor the mediation within the framework of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, and to ensure that its outcome would complement its full implementation, as opposed to any attempt to replace it.

13. With reagrds to the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC), it has successfully concluded its mandate, having reviewed and drafted amendments to 24 pieces of legislation, as its mandate. It has handed over all the amendment bills to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. The role of this august House in enacting 16 of the reviewed Bills so far is commendable.

14.  In terms of the judicial reforms process, the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) has completed its work, and drafted a report with recommendations for judicial reforms. However, the scheduled stakeholders’ validation and official handover of the Report to the RTGoNU remains pending. Judicial reforms mandated by the R-ARCSS include: (a) the review of the Judiciary Act; (b) building the capacity of judicial personnel and infrastructure; (c) reconstitution of the Judicial Service Commission; and (d) establishment of an independent, impartial and credible Constitutional Court. RJMEC has urged the RTGoNU to expedite the conclusion of the JRC’s final report to pave the way for judicial reforms.

15. During the reporting period, the Permanent Ceasefire continued to hold with no major clashes among the forces of the signatory Parties. However, clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the hold out group National Salvation Front (NAS) of Gen Thomas Cirillo were reported in Mundri East County, Western Equatoria State, and in some parts of Central Equatoria State.

16. Concerning the Transitional Security Arrangements, there has been very little progress since the last RJMEC briefing. CTSAMVM reported that on 19 April 2024, the Joint Defence Board (JDB) deployed two battalions of the army to Malakal and Bentui, which in addition to the 6 battalions that were deployed in 2023, brings the total number of Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) battalions deployed so far to eight. On Phase II training, there is no evidence of any preparations, nor has funding been availed for the DDR Commission and Security Mechanisms.

17. With regards to the unification of the second command echelon of the NUF, the SPLM/A-IO and SSOA submitted lists of the names of their officers to H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan. The SPLM/A-IO and the SSOA are still awaiting the President’s response. 

18. The SDSR Board has completed the validation of the five documents of the Strategic Defence and Security Review process, namely the Strategic Security Assessment, Security Policy Framework, Revised Defence Policy, the White Paper on Defence and Security, and the Security Sector Transformation Roadmap. These documents are yet to be presented to the Party leaders for their approval.

Right Hon. Speaker, Honorable Members,

19. Regarding humanitarian assistance and reconstruction, the humanitarian situation in the country continues to worsen through increasing food insecurity and malnutrition, especially among populations that are already acutely food insecure. The situation is expected to further worsen with the cumulative effects of the deteriorating economic situation, diminishing funding, intercommunal violence, continued influx of refugees and returnees from Sudan, climatic shocks, disease outbreaks and anticipated flooding. The passing of the NGO Act 2016 (Amendment) Bill 2024 by this august House and its subsequent operationalision is expected to play a critical role in creating a more conducive working environment for NGOs in South Sudan, thus improving access to those in need.

20. According to the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), by the end of April 2024, about 655,000 returnees from Sudan were registered in South Sudan through various open border points, though the transit centres, especially Renk, lack basic needs, including shelter from the heat and rain. 

21. The RRC has attributed the slow return, relocation, and reintegration processes to the delayed establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund (SRF). It is worth noting that the slow implementation of Chapter III affects inclusivity, fairness, and meaningful participation of citizens, especially women who make up the majority of the IDPs, returnees, refugees and populations in need.

22. In terms of resource, economic and financial management the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Authority (PPDAA) has been created and is almost fully functional as required by Article 4.6.1.1 of the R-ARCSS. This Authority should control and regulate public procurement and the disposal of public assets in a manner that is transparent, fair, honest, cost-effective and competitive. However, the institution is challenged by the absence of the Procurement Regulations, which is yet to be approved by this House. Another challenge is the lack of cooperation from some Ministries, agencies and departments of government to comply with the PPDAA in setting up procurement committees in their institutions.

23. The Fiscal and Financial Allocation Monitoring Commission Bill, which is to ensure transparency of allocations of national revenue to States and Counties, has been approved by the Council of Ministers and now needs to enacted by this House. Separately, the Public Financial Management and Accountability (PFMA) Bill was passed by this House and awaits assent by the President.

Right Hon. Speaker, Honorable Members,

24. Under transitional justice, accountability, reconciliation and healing, RJMEC noted that the draft Bills on the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) are before this august House for enactment.

25. Under the parameters of permanent constitution, during this reporting period, the reconstituted National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) received the SSP equivalent of US $800,000 to facilitate its work, and has since adopted all its revised internal governing instruments. The Commission awaits a political decision on the timelines, given the Roadmap schedule for the end of the Transitional Period.

26. The RJMEC, as the commission that is mandated by the Agreement to oversee, monitor and evaluate the implementation of the Agreement, has continued to have its leadership engaging regularly with the RTGoNU Executives, the Parties to the Agreement, institutions and mechanisms implementing the R-ARCSS and different South Sudanese stakeholders and adherents. The Parties to the Agreement were urged to continue to dialogue in good faith towards consensus in order to provide clarity on the best way forward with respect to the implementation of the agreement and the critical issue of the holding of elections at the end of the transition period.

27. RJMEC leadership, additionally held a number of important engagements in Juba and within the region on the status of implementation of the R-ARCSS as well as challenges facing its implementation, including observer status in the Nairobi talks. The leadership also briefed and updated H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa and Chair of the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee for South Sudan (C5), the Facilitation Support Team for the South African Special Envoy to South Sudan, H.E. Dennis Francis, President of the UN General Assembly, H.E. Gen. Abubaker Jeje Odongo, Foreign Minister of Uganda, a visiting delegation of the AU Peace and Security Council and non-resident Ambassadors of Belgium and South Korea. These high-level personalities were briefed on the progress, challenges and opportunities and possible interventions towards implementation of the Agreement.

Right Hon. Speaker, Honorable Members,

28. In RJMEC’s assessment, there has been insufficient progress made in implementation of the R-ARCSS during the reporting period. Key tasks, such as the permanent constitution making, preparations for elections, and the unification of forces, remain largely at the same stage as they were at the end of the previous quarter. 

29. Failure to move forward on these key aspects of the implementation hinders the holding of elections, scheduled for December 2024. However, while it is encouraging that at least partial funding has been availed to the NEC, PPC and NCRC, key institutions that will play major roles in the constitution and election processes, more resources are needed. It is important to stress the need for a people led and a people owned permanent constitution made in accordance with provisions of the Constitution Making Process Act 2022, as the basis to guide the conduct of a credible free, fair and peaceful election at the end of the Transitional Period. With that in mind, it is hoped that the Tumaini Initiative can make progress in bringing the hold out groups into the peace process, enhancing the prospects of sustainable peace in South Sudan.

30. The recommendations which follow, are aimed at encouraging a faster pace of implementation of the R-ARCSS and will better prepare the country for the upcoming elections, if acted upon.  

a.  To the Parties to the Agreement and Relevant Stakeholders:

1.1.      engage in dialogue in the spirit of collegiality on the best way forward for the holding of elections and provide a detailed plan to the people of South Sudan on the implementation of the Roadmap; and 

1.2.      embrace the Tumaini Initiative as a means of bringing in the holdout groups into the Revitalised Peace Agreement in the spirit of inclusivity and furthering the prospects for peace in the country.

b. To the RTGoNU:

1.3.      seize this constitution-making moment given the importance of a people-led and a people-owned permanent constitution, as the basis to guide the conduct of credible free, fair and peaceful elections; 

1.4.      avail requisite funding, in a timely manner, to the NCRC to enable the effective discharge of its mandate in overseeing the making of a Permanent Constitution;

1.5.      create an enabling civic and political space for citizens’ participation in governance;

1.6.      expeditiously undertake, through the NEC, elections-related activities listed in Article 1.20.8 of the R-ARCSS; 

1.7.      provide, as a matter of urgency, all the resources necessary to complete redeployment of the remaining NUF, and in addition complete unification of the command structure so that the country can have a unified force with a national character under one Commander-in-Chief; and

1.8.         pursue establishment of the SRF and Board with a view to helping to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the country.

c. To the TNL:

1.9.         expedite the enactment of all pending bills, including the NGO, CTRH and CRA Bills; and

1.10.      support the process of providing the requisite funding for the constitution and election making processes by passage of the necessary supplementary spending and budget bills to secure funding for their operationalisation.

31. In conclusion, with elections scheduled for December 2024, it is hoped that the dialogue by the Parties to the Agreement will bring clarity on the best way forward. It is important to underscore that while some progress has been made in establishing the key institutions charged with the conduct of the constitution-making and elections processes, a lot remains to be done to fully equip them to carry out their mandates. 

32. Similarly, the level of resources made available to these institutions fall well short of their proposed budgets, further hindering their ability to complete the required tasks in line with the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan.

I Thank You!

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has today June 27, 2024, convened its 36th monthly plenary in Juba.

Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

 Thursday, 27 June 2024

With time fast running out, very little clarity exist on elections

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has today June 27, 2024, convened its 36th monthly plenary in Juba.

In his address to the meeting, RJMEC Chairperson Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai gave a detailed status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). 

On elections scheduled for December this year, Amb. Gituai said, “very little clarity exists regarding the position of the RTGoNU (Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity) and Parties over the conduct of elections as scheduled.”

“Also, critical election related tasks remain outstanding and time is fast running out,” he added. 

On the permanent constitution making process, Amb Gituai said,

“The making of ‘a people led, and people owned permanent constitution’ within the Transitional Period is one of the cardinal promises made by the Parties to the Revitalized Peace Agreement to the people of South Sudan and this constitutional moment should not be lost.”

In his address, Amb. Gituai made the following recommendations to the R-TGoNU:

1. continue sustained inter-party dialogue in a collegial manner, build consensus amongst the Parties and the stakeholders on the way forward on elections, and provide regular updates to the public on the progress of the dialogue;
2. continue to avail the requisite resources and logistics to the Agreement institutions and mechanisms to enable them to discharge their mandates;
3. fast-track the passing of all pending bills and operationalise those already enacted by the TNLA; and
4. complete the unification of the mid-level command echelon, redeployment of the unified forces, and commence Phase II, and DDR (Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration).
5. In his conclusions, the Chairperson said:
6. “I would like to underscore the importance of continuous implementation of the R-ARCSS tasks, irrespective of the ongoing inter-party dialogue and the Nairobi talks. Much work remains to be done and no time should be lost going forward.

ENDS

-      Honourable Ministers, 

-      Excellencies,

-      Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

1.   I welcome you all to the 36th plenary meeting of the RJMEC. This plenary is an important platform for all of us, as the peace oversight body, to regularly take stock of progress, or lack thereof, in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, to receive reports from the RTGoNU and from the different Agreement institutions and mechanisms, and to recommend appropriate remedial measures. 

2.   I therefore take note that, very little clarity exists regarding the position of the RTGoNU and Parties over the  the conduct of elections as scheduled in December this year. Also, critical election related tasks remain outstanding. However, I am aware that the High Level Standing Committee of the Parties on the Implementation of the R-ARCSS have been meeting. We look forward to RTGoNU’s update on this matter.

3.   The aforementioned notwithstanding, our regular plenary meeting is an important platform to encourage the RTGoNU and the Parties to exert more efforts to register progress. I therefore appeal to all RJMEC members to remain seized of our mandate and to use these regular meetings to proactively engage with the RTGoNU, the Parties and the implementation mechanisms to expedite the pace of the R-ARCSS implementation. 

4.   My statement today will focus on the status of implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement as per the Roadmap since our last plenary meeting, and highlight recent developments chapter by chapter, critical pending tasks and concludes with recommendations.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

5.   Under governance, it is encouraging to note that the RTGoNU Council of Ministers has endorsed the revised NGO Act 2016 (Amendment) Bill 2024. The Bill seeks to streamline the operations of NGOs, and improve their registration and regulations. This is a welcome development. The subsequent step is for the Bill to be presented to the TNLA for its consideration. 

6.   With regard to the ad-hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC), the  validation and official handover of their report to the RTGoNU remains pending. I reiterate RJMECs appeal to the RTGoNU to expedite the conclusion of this process.

7.   On preparations for the conduct of elections as scheduled, RJMEC had requested the Parties in March to engage in a dialogue so as to reach consensus on the way forward. With less than six months to the elections as per the Roadmap, time is fast running out and a number of critical election related tasks remain pending. There are reports that the National Elections Commission (NEC) has made some progress with regards to the reconstitution of the State Elections High Committees. The Chairperson of the NEC will provide further update on this matter and on the status of its work. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

8.      Regarding the Permanent Ceasefire, the ceasefire is still holding despite the reported increase of abductions of youths by NAS in Central Equatoria State and some insecurities along the roads. Since the last meeting, CTSAMVM has submitted seven violation reports to the RJMEC. I wrote to the SSPDF Chief of Defence Forces’ calling for immediate action on the violations as per CTSAMVM’s recommendations. The JDB is requested to update this meeting on the status of actions taken to remedy the violations.

9.      On the Transitional Security Arrangements, RTGoNU is requested to update this meeting on the status of the mid- and lower-levels command, following the submission by both SPLM/A-IO and SSOA of their lists of officers. In addition, I request updates from the JDB on the completion of redeployment for Phase I, plans for the commencement of Phase II, SDSR process and the DDR respectively.

10.  RJMEC remains concerned with reports of continuing inter-communal violence in different parts of the country, including latest incidents in Ruweng Administrative Area and Unity States.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

11.  With regard to humanitarian affairs, the situation in the country remains challenging and is expected to worsen with  the anticipated flooding and decrease in relief support. The Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) continues to decry the conditions in and around the main transit centre in Renk, Unity State where returnees lack basic needs, including shelter from the heat and rain. 

12.  The Relief and Rehabilitation Commission attributes the slow return, relocation, and  reintegration processes to delayed establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund and its Board.  In that regard, I appeal to the RTGoNU and peace partners to come to the aid of the affected persons who are in dire need. 

13.  In addition, the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission is finalising the consolidated National Framework for Durable Solutions for refugees, internally displaced persons, returnees, and host communities. The Framework will be a useful tool for resource mobilisation and coordination. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

14.  With regards to the management of economic and financial resources, the TNLA recently passed the Public Finance Management and Accountability Amendment Bill 2024, which awaits assent by the President. The RTGoNU has also made inroads in building the domestic private sector through strengthening Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) among rural populations and the urban poor in some States by increasing access to finance and capacity building. 

15.  However, there is need for strengthening the South Sudan Business Forum to enable it to support the review and implementation of the Private Sector Development Strategy. It is also important  that the Enterprise Development Funds for both Women and Youth are established and accessed throughout the country.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

16.  Regarding Transitional Justice, there has been no new progress to report as the Bills for the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) are still with the TNLA. I reiterate our appeal to the TNLA to give these bills their urgent attention.

17.  Concerning the permanent constitution making process, I am encouraged by reports that the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) has received US $ 800,000 as promised by the RTGoNU in our last plenary. I commend the RTGoNU for availing this funds to the NCRC. 

18.  The making of ‘a people led, and people owned permanent constitution’ within the Transitional Period is one of the cardinal promises made by the Parties to the Revitalized Peace Agreement to the people of South Sudan and this constitutional moment should not be lost.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

19.  RJMEC has had a number of important engagements, here in Juba and within the region on the status of implementation of the R-ARCSS, as well as challenges facing its implementation, the Nairobi talks, and prospects for elections.

20.  In this regard, I briefed Mr. Dennis Francis, President of the UN General Assembly, H.E Gen. Abubaker Jeje Odongo, Foreign Minister of Uganda, the visiting delegation of the AU Peace and Security Council, and the non-resident Ambassadors of Belgium and South Korea. 

21.  We continued our regular and close engagements with the RTGoNU Executives, Parties to the Agreement, institutions and mechanisms implementing the Agreement and different South Sudanese stakeholders. In all engagements, we keep encouraging them to make further progress, dialogue and provide clarity on the way forward.

22.  With regard to the Nairobi talks, we continue to encourage the negotiating parties to dialogue in good faith with a commitment to achieving an inclusive peace process within the framework of the R-ARCSS. 

23.  In view of the aforementioned, RJMEC recommends the following to the RTGoNU:

a.   continue sustained inter-party dialogue in a collegial manner, build consensus amongst the Parties and the stakeholders on the way forward on elections, and provide regular updates to the public on the progress of the dialogue;

b.   continue to avail the requisite resources and logistics to the Agreement institutions and mechanisms to enable them to discharge their mandates;

c.   fast-track the passing of all pending bills and operationalise those already enacted by the TNLA; and

d.  complete the unification of the mid-level command echelon, redeployment of the unified forces, and commence Phase II, and DDR.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

24.  In conclusion, I would like to underscore the importance of continuous implementation of the R-ARCSS tasks, irrespective of the ongoing inter-party dialogue and the Nairobi talks. Much work remains to be done and no time should be lost going forward.

25.  I wish you fruitful deliberations.

I Thank You!

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has on Thursday, May 23 2024, convened its 35th monthly meeting in Juba.