Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

Thursday, 23 May 2024

WITH SEVEN MONTHS REMAINING, NO EVIDENCE OF SUFFICIENT PREPARATION FOR CREDIBLE ELECTIONS IN SOUTH SUDAN

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

Speaking at the opening of the meeting, RJMEC Interim Chairperson, Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai said itis concerning that “barely seven months to the elections, there is still no evidence of sufficient preparation for the conduct of elections and implementation of critical election-related tasks.”

In his assessment of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, Amb. Gituai said these critical tasks, among others, include the full operationalisation and funding of the Political Parties Council (PPC), the National Elections Commission (NEC), and the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC), completion of Phase I and Phase II unification of forces, and making of a permanent constitution to guide the conduct of elections.

In addition, he said, the conduct by the NEC of elections-related such as establishment of subsidiary electoral management bodies at the state level, the establishment of procedures for the voter registry and registration, and support to civic education and voter outreach, the publication of the voters register six months prior to the holding of elections, are also pending. 

He further stated that other pending tasks to be completed, include judicial reform process, review of the judiciary Act and establishment of the Constitutional Court and the enactment of the revised National Security Service Act (Amendment) Bill 2023 to, among others, create an enabling civic and political space for citizens’ participation in governance. 

As such, he said, it is important that the inter-party dialogue be expedited to provide clarity on the way forward.  

“This would help the South Sudanese to prepare sufficiently and enable timely mobilisation of resources by the regional and international community to support the process,” he said. 

Additionally, Amb. Gituai raised concerns on continued inter-communal violence in different parts of the country, such as in Tambura, Twic, and parts of Abyei region, saying:  “This underlines the critical importance of full unification of all forces and their redeployment to provide security in all parts of the country,” he said. 

In his recommendation, the Interim Chairperson asked the Transitional Government and the Parties todialogue in a collegial manner, build consensus, provide regular updates and a way forward on elections and complete the deployment of the unified forces and commence Phase II without further delay. 

In his conclusion, he said: “Overall, it is important to underline that four years into the Transitional Period, relative progress has been made in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. All efforts should therefore be made to consolidate the peace gains, and lay a firm foundation for lasting peace, development and prosperity for the people of South Sudan.

ENDS

-      Honourable Ministers, 

-      Excellencies,

-      Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

1.   I welcome you all to the 35th plenary meeting of the RJMEC. As you may recall, we had to reschedule this meeting twice, first in March following a request from the RTGoNU to allow the Parties to commence the interparty dialogue on the way forward to elections as per the Roadmap, and then on 9th May, which coincided with the launch of the Nairobi Talks with holdout groups. These two activities are considered important and relate to the implementation of the Agreement. We therefore look forward to an update from the RTGoNU on progress so far on the two initiatives.

2.   Since our last meeting, RJMEC engaged with various members of the Executive of the RTGoNU, including the Vice Presidents, addressed the TNLA on its assessment of the status of implementation of the Agreement, met and briefed H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa during his visit to Juba, participated at the launch of the Nairobi talks, and met with the Special Envoys of IGAD, European Union, and delegations  from AU and non-resident ambassadors in Juba. 

3.   My statement today will highlight the recent developments with regard to the status of implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement as per the Roadmap since our last plenary meeting, critical pending tasks of the Agreement, and concludes with recommendations.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

4.   Under governance, the National Elections Commission (NEC) and the Political Parties Council (PPC) have both reportedly received some funding to enable them kickstart their operations. Consequently, the NEC has undertaken some visits to the States to assess their requirements for election preparations. However, it is concerning that the reconstituted National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) is yet to receive funding. This plenary looks forward to receiving updates from these institutions on the progress in the discharge of their respective mandates.

5.   The ad-hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) has completed drafting its final report which contains recommendations for reforming the judiciary. The report awaits official handover to the RTGoNU. This meeting looks forward to receiving an update from the RTGoNU on the status of the JRC report and modalities of its handover and implementation.

6.   In terms of legislative reforms, the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) has completed its work and all revised laws are now with the RTGoNU and before the TNLA. RJMEC appeals to the RTGoNU and TNLA to expedite the enactment of all the pending amendment bills, including the National Security Service Bill and those critical for creating a conducive environment for the conduct of elections and in enhancing civic and political space. In addition, RJMEC urges the TNLA to fast track the enactment of the Public Finance Management and Accountability (PFMA) Amendment Bill 2024 which now awaits the 3rd and final reading. The passage into law and implementation of this Bill will ensure prudent and transparent financial management and accountability. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

7.   Regarding the Transitional Security Arrangements, RJMEC welcomes the recent meeting between the President and First Vice President, their commitment to commence Phase II without delay, and the submission of the list of SPLM/A-IO officers to the President for the unification of the middle and lower level echelons. However, SSOA is reportedly yet to submit its list. In addition, there has been conflicting data on the number of unified forces deployed under Phase 1. In this regard, JDB is requested to update this plenary on the actual number of the deployed unified forces, and progress towards Phase II. 

8.   There were reports of recent inter-communal violence in different parts of the country, including in Tambura, Twic, and parts of Abyei region. This is concerning and underlines the critical importance of full unification of all forces and their redeployment to provide security in all parts of the country. It is reported that increased SSPDF patrols in Tambura have managed to deescalate tensions and have restored security in the area. In addition to security interventions, it is important to encourage local authorities to initiate more effective conflict and violence reduction interventions such as community-based dialogue processes and traditional conflict resolution mechanisms.

9.   The DDR process, a critical component for the unification of forces, remains pending. DDR is essential as it provides alternative livelihoods for those who are ineligible for unification. While we commend the DDR Commission’s Community Violence Reduction initiatives, it is pertinent to implement effective DDR, as part of the unification of forces in order to build a stable and secure country

RJMEC urges the NTC and JBD to prioritise DDR funding as part of preparation for Phase II.

10.  The Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) Board has validated the strategic defence and security strategy documents which are now ready for submission to the Principals. This is encouraging considering that the SDSR process had stalled for a while, due to a number of reasons, including funding. The Chairperson of the SDSR Board is expected to provide further details and an update on the next steps towards completing this Agreement task that is central in ensuring reforms in the entire security sector.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

11.  On 9th May  2024, the High Level Mediation for South Sudan (Tumaini Initiative) was launched in Nairobi. This is not a new peace process but rather a continuation of the Rome Initiative and an attempt to ensure an inclusive peace process going forward. On 16th May 2024, the Parties signed a Declaration of Commitment to renounce violence as a means of resolving differences, engage in constructive dialogue, open civic and political spaces, negotiate in good faith and reach agreement in the interest of inclusive and lasting peace in South Sudan. 

12.  The Parties further recommitted to the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA) of 2017. This is a welcome development. It is RJMEC’s expectation that the success of the Nairobi process will contribute to the full implementation of the R-ARCSSS and further support the consolidation of peace in South Sudan. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

13.  In regard to Humanitarian Affairs, RJMEC commends The Republic of South Sudan for keeping its borders open to refugees and returnees from neighbouring countries. Further, the Government has been participating in joint border monitoring of onward transport of returnees to their final destinations within the country and the biometric registration of refugees, in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) among others. 

14.  In support of dignified return of refugees, IDPs and returnees, the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) is in the process of developing a comprehensive National Framework for Durable Solutions for refugees, internally displaced persons, returnees and host communities by consolidating all the existing policy frameworks. It is also drafting a community led campaign strategy aimed at supporting free, voluntary and dignified return and reintegration. RJMEC appeals to the RTGoNU and partners to fully support this process. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

15.  Regarding resource, economic and financial management, though efforts have been made in implementing a good number of provisions, some critical reforms remain outstanding. These include Public Financial management reforms and the strengthening of the oversight institutions of the Anti-Corruption Commission and the National Audit Chamber. 

16.  In terms of devolution of more powers and resources to the States and Counties,  no progress has been made in the review of the wealth sharing and revenue allocation in line with the Agreement. The RTGoNU is urged to expedite this important process as the country prepares for elections.

17.  RJMEC takes note of some improvements made in the management of reserve funds, as subventions are being made to Oil Future Generations’ Fund (FGF). However, these amounts need to be managed in accordance with the applicable legislations. In addition,amounts due to the Oil Stabilization Account (OSA) should also be paid in accordance with the law and as per Art.4.8.1.11 of the R-ARCSS. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

18.  Regarding transitional justice, there has been no progress since our last plenary. The Bills for the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) remain with the Committee of Peace and Reconciliation of the TNLA. I urge the TNLA to give these bills their urgent attention, as matters of truth, reconciliation and healing will play a pivotal role in South Sudan in spearheading efforts towards reconciliation, forgiveness and social cohesion ahead of elections.

19.  Concerning the permanent constitution-making process, as stated before, the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) has not received funding. Despite this, the Commission has continued to build its internal capacities in preparation for the execution of its mandate. This plenary looks forward to receiving an update from the NCRC Chairperson. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

20.  As you may recall, in March this year, RJMEC wrote to the Executive of the RTGoNU expressing its concerns on the lack of consensus on the prospects of conducting credible elections as scheduled in December 2024, and called for urgent inter-party dialogue on the way forward, in the spirit of collegiality and consensus, as per the requirement of the R-ARCSS. It is therefore important that the interparty dialogue be expedited to provide clarity on the way forward. This would help the South Sudanese to prepare sufficiently and enable timely mobilisation of resources by the regional and international community to support the process. 

21.  It is concerning that barely seven months to the elections, there is still no evidence of sufficient preparation for the conduct of elections and implementation of critical election-related tasks. These include, among others:

a.   completion of the judicial reform process, review of the judiciary Act and establishment of the Constitutional Court; 

b.   enactment of the revised National Security Service Act (Amendment) Bill 2023 to, inter alia, create an enabling civic and political space for citizens’ participation in governance;

c.   full operationalisation and funding of the Political Parties Council (PPC), the National Elections Commission (NEC), and the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC);

d.  the conduct by the NEC of elections-related activities listed at Article 1.20.8, such as establishment of subsidiary electoral management bodies at the state level, the establishment of procedures for the voter registry and registration, and support to civic education and voter outreach, the publication of the voters register six months prior to the holding of elections, as per  Article 1.20.10; and the delimitation of constituencies;

e.   completion of Phase I and Phase II unification of forces, and provision of funding for implementation of the DDR process;

f.    addressing the challenges of reconstruction, repatriation, resettlement, rehabilitation, and reintegration of IDPs and returnees as per Article 1.20.7;

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

h.  establishment and operationalisation of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing and the Compensation and Reparation Authority; and 

i.    making of a permanent constitution in accordance with the Constitution Making Process Act 2022 to guide the conduct of elections.

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

a.   continue sustained dialogue in a collegial manner, and build consensus among 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.   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 laws and operationalise those already enacted by the TNLA; and

d.  complete the deployment of the unified forces and commence Phase II without further delay.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

23.  Overall, it is important to underline that four years into the Transitional Period, relative progress has been made in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. All efforts should therefore be made to consolidate the peace gains, and lay a firm foundation for lasting peace, development and prosperity for the people of South Sudan.

24.  In conclusion, I would like to reiterate my appeal to you all, as RJMEC members, to continue to constructively engage the RTGoNU and Parties’ representatives, to clarify how they intend to deliver peaceful, free, fair and credible democratic elections as per the Agreement and Roadmap by the end of the Transitional Period. 

25.  I wish you fruitful deliberations.

I Thank You!

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has on April 24, presented its first quarterly report of the year to the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly. 

South Sudan mediation The Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) Amb. Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai said the  South Sudan Mediation Process in Nairobi will come out with a framework of inclusivity, address the differences and bring a clear way forward that would enhance the peace process.

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

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

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

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

·     Head of Government Delegation;

·     Head of Delegation, South Sudan Opposition Movements Alliance;

·     Excellencies;

·     Honourable Members; 

·     Distinguished        Guests;

·     Ladies and Gentlemen.

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

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

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

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

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I Thank You!

-     Rt Honourable Speaker,

-     Rt Honourable Deputy Speakers,

-     Honourable Members,

-     Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good morning.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Right Hon. Speaker, Honorable Members,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Right Hon. Speaker, Honorable Members,

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

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

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

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

Right Hon. Speaker, Honorable Members,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I Thank You!

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

   Thursday, 21 March 2024, Juba, South Sudan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENDS

Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

 Friday, 8 March 2024, Juba, South Sudan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENDS

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

Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

Tuesday, 27 February 2024, Juba, South Sudan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENDS  

-       Chairperson of the AU Peace and Security Council,

-       Commissioner for the AU Political Affairs, Peace and Security

-       Your Excellencies, Distinguished Permanent Representatives

-       Ladies and Gentlemen 

Your Excellency,

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

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

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

Your Excellency,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your Excellency,

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

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

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

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

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

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

I Thank You.

By Amb. Charles Tai Gituai

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