.        H.E. Dr. Wani Igaa, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan;

-       Rt. Hon. Jema Nunu Kumba, Speaker of the TNLA;

-       Hon. Losuba Ludoru Wongo, Minister for Federal Affairs;

-       Mr Guang Cong, Deputy SRSG [Representative of UNMISS];

-       Amb. Prof. Joram Biswaro, SRCC and Head of the African Union Mission in South Sudan

-       Honorable Ministers, Excellencies 

-       Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

-       All Protocol Observed

Good Morning!

1.   At the outset, I bring you warm greetings from H.E. Amb. Maj. Gen (rtd) Charles Tai Gituai, Interim Chairperson of RJMEC, who is unable to be here in person, at the opening of this high-level forum, due to unavoidable circumanstances.

2.   On behalf of the Interim Chairperson of RJMEC, allow me to thank the Council of States, the Ministry of Petroluem and the Ministry of Finance and Planning for convening this forum on: “Fiscal Devolution, Wealth Sharing and Revenue Management in South Sudan”. 

3.   In a special way, I would like to extend RJMEC’s appreciation to the UNMISS and UNDP for their continued support to the implementation of the R-ARCSS and for facilitating the convening of this forum.

4.   From RJMEC’s perspective, looking back to 2016, and prior, the conversations about federalism and its key tenets in the Republic of South Sudan have come a long way, and it is today very constructive, informative and progressive. 

5.   The ongoing conversations on federalism and the widely held expectation for a permanent constitution based on a federal system of government in the Republic of South Sudan after the Transitional Period, underscores a positive change in attitude, incuding the importance of getting the design and implementation of federalism right.

6.   So far, a lot of work has been done by the Ministry of Federal Affairs which has developed a clear policy guideline on federalism, other line Ministries supporting this endeavors, the Transitional National Legislature enacting laws to support reforms and the implementation of the Agreement, and various partners such as UNMISS, UNDP, the Max Plank Foundation and the International IDEA, who have all contributed to this endeavour.

7.   Today’s forum is particularly important, given that “fiscal responsibility and wealth sharing” are not only some of the key hallmarks of federalism  but also an area fraught with conflicts, and sometimes, they are the key obstacles, for the implementation of a viable federal arrangement.

8.   RJMEC therefore welcomes the timely nature of this high-level forum, delving deeper into this issue of fiscal federalism, wealth creation, and revenue management, and for bringing the reconstituted NCRC on board, to illuminate its various facets, listen to current concerns from the people on the ground, researchers, stakeholders, practitioners, and learn experiences and best practices.

9.       Furthermore, I would like to underscore that this engagement is a positive step to achieving the provision of Article 4.1.6 of the R-ARCSS which states:  “Revenue sharing shall reflect a commitment to devolution of powers and resources, and the decentralization of decision-making in regard to development, service delivery and governance”.  

10.   Furthermore, the conversations here will contribute to the implementation of Article 4.1.5 of R-ARCSS, which states that “the wealth of South Sudan shall be shared equitably so as to enable each level of government to discharge its reconstruction, development, legal and constitutional obligations, duties and responsibilities”.

11.  In conclusion, for fiscal devolution to be effective, there are a number of preconditions which need to taken into consideration. They include, among others,  a stable political environment; effective autonomous subnational governments; institutional capacity at regional/state and local levels of government; government accountability; effective democratic election infrastructure at all levels of government; and capacity to raise adequate levels of revenue locally.

12.  Finally, RJMEC is optimistic and confident that the outcome of this forum will go a long way in identifying a viable fiscal federalism model for South Sudan that can enhance effective governance, equitable development, and sustainable peacebuilding in a democratic and federal South Sudan. 

13.  I wish you fruitful deliberations over the next two days.

I Thank You!

 -Honourable Ministers, 

-  Excellencies, 

-  Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning!

1.     I welcome you all to the 38th plenary meeting of the RJMEC. This is the first meeting since the Parties to the Agreement agreed to extend the Transitional Period by an additional 24 months, a decision that was endorsed by the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) Council of Ministers, and consented to by the RJMEC.  It was then ratified by the Transitional National Legislature, and from there assented to by the President of the Republic of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit. The extended Transitional Period is therefore effective from 22 February 2025 to 22 February 2027, with elections due in December 2026. This is a tight timeline, which requires deliberate planning and a sense of urgency, in order to have all the critical pending tasks accomplished for the elections to take place as scheduled. 

2.     As you are all aware, the decision for the extension was met with mixed reactions, with many being disappointed at what felt like the continuation of an endless cycle of transitions. The slow pace of implementation and inability to adhere to timelines by the RTGoNU are major sources of concern. Consequently, due to the non-completion of the critical preparatory tasks of the Agreement required for elections, it was clear that the country was not ready for elections as previously scheduled in December 2024.

3.     Throughout implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, progress has been slowed down by many recurring challenges such as insufficient political will, trust deficit, lack of sufficient, dedicated and predictable funding, and capacity gaps. Therefore, there is unprecedented need to do things differently this time around. A clear demonstration by the RTGoNU to mobilise sufficient resources to implement the Agreement would be a strong indication of political will and commitment. As the honourable representative of the RTGoNU told us at the extraordinary plenary, “the bulk of funding must be internally generated.” It is our expectation that this funding will be availed immediately.

4.     It is therefore expected that the RTGoNU and the various institutions and mechanisms of the Agreement will brief this meeting about their strategies to align and deliver their tasks within the extended Transitional Period. These should include action plans, budget, timelines, and resource mobilisation, and proactive engagement with the various other Agreement institutions and mechanisms.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

5.     In terms of the status of implementation of the R-ARCSS, I will highlight some of the recent developments since our last meeting, and then conclude with recommendations.

6.     Firstly, governance. It is understood that the Political Parties Council (PPC), the National Elections Commission (NEC), the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) have each provided a timeline and accompanying budget to the RTGoNU covering the extended Transitional Period. It is expected that the RTGoNU will fund these institutions accordingly. In RJMEC’s view that,  enhanced cooperation between these institutions can better align their respective workplans and priorities. It is expected that they will provide more details on their work to this meeting. 

7.     With regard to judicial reforms, RJMEC welcomes the validation of the final report of the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) which nears completion of its mandate, as provided for under Article 1.17 of the R-ARCSS. A reformed, effective, independent, and impartial judiciary in South Sudan will be an anchor of justice, liberty and the rule of law before, during and after elections, and for the future generations. It is now incumbent upon the RTGoNU to adopt this report and to effectively and expeditiously implement the recommended reforms. As demonstrated by both the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) and the JRC, with financial and other support, Agreement institutions and mechanisms can deliver their mandates successfully.  

8.     In terms of women’s representation in the executive and legislative appointments, RJMEC would like to emphasise the importance of the minimum 35% threshold for their representation. Further, it is important to remind the Parties that when replacements in these appointments take place, they should not reduce the overall count of women in these positions. Instead, women’s representation should be increased in executive and legislative appointments. As was underscored at the recent 4th annual national conference on Women, Peace and Security, women’s leadership and full inclusion in peacebuilding and political processes is central to achieving lasting peace and security in South Sudan. The inclusion in leadership, will be boosted by the prioritisation of the impending Bills on Anti-Gender Based Violence (GBV), Women Empowerment, the Women Enterprise Development Fund, Persons With Disability, and Family Law, among others.

9.     In regard to transitional security arrangements, The permanent ceasefire continues to hold, however,  there have been several alarming  incidents of violence in Nassir County, Upper Nile State, that have claimed several lives and displaced thousands of families. The incidents in Wondoruba and Jebel Iraqi in Central Equatoria State involved gruesome killing of approximately 26 youth, allegedly by uniformed personnel. I have been informed that a committee has been appointed to investigate the incidents in Nassir County and in Central Equatoria State. I would like to hear more from the JDB on this matter. Furthermore, I call upon CTSAMVM to expeditiously investigate these incidents. Those found responsible should be held accountable.

10.  On the Transitional Security Arrangements, no progress has been reported since the last Plenary. The challenges that have long existed still persist, including lack of funding for security mechanisms and their activities, poor logistical support to Training Centres and Cantonment Sites, and lack of funding for the DDR Commission. The DDR Commission, established as per article 1.19.1.20 of the R-ARCSS, and  being one of the most important commissions critical for the stabilisation of the country, reports that it has not been funded by the Government since its reconstitution.  There are reports that NTC has been working on a consolidated workplans for the security mechanisms. This meeting expects to hear more on this from the NTC. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

11.  On Humanitarian affairs, there are growing humanitarian needs in South Sudan, considering the influx of refugees and IDPs due to the conflict in Sudan and the natural calamities like floods and increased food shortages.  It  was therefore welcome news to hear that the South Sudan Action Plan on Return, Reintegration, and Recovery was recently launched by the Vice President H.E. Rebecca Nyandeng. The national policy aims at providing durable solutions for refugees, IDPs, returnees and host communities. It is expected that the policy will help answer critical questions on how IDPs and refugees will be settled and participate in the constitution-making and electoral processes.

12.  On Resource, Economic and Financial management, the regulations which govern the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Authority, and the Bank of South Sudan’s statutory functions have recently been developed following the passing of key legislation in 2023. In particular, efforts in strengthening the financial system through reforms to the Bank of South Sudan help to promote financial stability by regulating by law, all financial institutions. I therefore urge the Bank of South Sudan, to continue exercising its statutory functions, especially in relation to promoting price stability and monetary policy formulation, as per Article 4.2.2.2 of the R-ARCSS.

13.  The submission of the Draft National Budget for Fiscal Year 2024/2025 to the TNLA on 25 September 2024 ,is three months behind budget preparation schedule. With funding being a key part of the requirements for the extended Transitional Period, it is important that the budget aligns with peace implementation needs in a timely manner. RJMEC urges its finalisation as soon as possible.

14.  Furthermore, with the reported resumption of oil flowing through the pipeline that runs through Sudan, this should likewise provide budgetary support to peace implementation. More broadly, with the economic hardship currently being experienced in the country, RJMEC calls for the establishment of the Enterprise Development Fund, the Youth Enterprise Development Fund and the Women Enterprise Development Fund.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

15.  On transitional justice, it is noted that the Bills for the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) were passed by the Transitional National Legislative Assembly in September and thereafter submitted to the Council of States for scrutiny. The Bills have now been submitted to the President for assent. Given the critical importance of these Bills in enabling the establishment of the mechanisms that will spearhead goals of truth, reconciliation, justice, reparations and healing, RJMEC urges the RTGoNU to conclude enactment of the Bills and to prioritise the establishment and operationalisation of the CTRH and CRA.

16.  In terms of the permanent constitution making process, RJMEC understands that the reconstituted National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) has taken steps to ensure its institutional readiness for the delivery of its mandate. In this regard, RJMEC takes note that ten members of the NCRC are awaiting formal appointments and swearing in, and appeals to the RTGoNU to expedite this process.

17.  Furthermore, the NCRC has developed its action plan with a budget and timeline, and requires funding from the RTGoNU, to commence civic education and public consultation. RJMEC further appeals to the RTGoNU to avail the requisite resources and support to the NCRC to enable it to conduct its activities in a timely manner, given that the Permanent Constitution is a critical pre-requisite for the holding of elections.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

18.  For its part, RJMEC has enhanced its diplomatic engagements since the last plenary, including having met various interlocutors, such as the First Vice President, the Vice Presidents, different national Ministers of the RTGoNU,  Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms, regional guarantors, AU C5, Ambassadors and international partners based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and in Nairobi, Kenya.  These engagements have provided updates on the implementation of the R-ARCSS and sought to have a deliberate and aligned approach focused on enhanced support for the South Sudan peace process.

19.  Given the aforementioned, and in light of the need to do things differently in order to adhere to the agreed timelines and implementation schedule as per the extended period, I would like to offer thefollowing recommendations to the RTGoNU:

a.     Provide a strategy with a clear, coherent and overarching action plan, budget and timeline for the implementation of the priority tasks for the extended transitional period to build confidence, and aid ?resource mobilisation and support;

b.     Coordinate the Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms so that their workplans are aligned, coherent, and collaborative to ensure effective and efficient implementation;

c.      Mobilise and dedicate adequate and predictable funding to the Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms now and throughout the extended Transitional Period;

d.     Enhance the effectiveness of the Government–Tri Lateral Taskforce to help identify areas of collaboration and support to address issues related to the constitution-making and electoral processes in a timely manner;

e.      Increase women’s representation in the executive and legislative appointments up to and beyond the 35% minimum threshold given their centrality of the roles of women in achieving lasting peace and security in South Sudan;

f.       Expedite the completion of the unification of forces and their deployment, and DDR;

g.     Address questions of how South Sudanese refugees and IDPs will participate in the constitution-making and electoral processes; and

h.     Complete enactment of the CTRH and CRA bills paving way for the establishment and operationalization of these critical transitional justice mechanisms. 

20.  In conclusion, I urge the Parties to replicate the spirit of collegiality, consensus and urgency, exhibited in extending the Transitional Period, to expeditiously implement the critical pending tasks within this extended period, especially the constitution-making and electoral processes, and the unification of forces.

21.  Furthermore, it is important to observe that South Sudan has friends and partners who are willing to support the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, provided the RTGoNU leads the process by providing the bulk of the funding. Securing predictable funding and making early progress with the implementation of these outstanding tasks will therefore send a positive signal across the country that the Parties are making good on their promises and would attract timely support. I therefore appeal to the RTGoNU, to make a significant step in the implementation of the Agreement in these remaining months, before the end of the year, as a Christmas gift to the people of South Sudan.

22.  I wish you fruitful deliberations.

I Thank You!

Honourable Members, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning!

1.   I welcome you all to the 3rd Extraordinary Meeting of the RJMEC. As you are all aware, our 38thregular plenary meeting was scheduled for 26th September 2024. However, as provided for under Article 7.12 of the R-ARCSS, RJMEC may convene extraordinary meetings as deemed necessary. This meeting is being convened at the request of the RTGoNU for RJMEC members to consider the decision of the Parties to the R-ARCSS to extend the Transitional Period of the Revitalized Peace Agreement for twenty-four months from 22nd February 2025 to 22nd February 2027.

2.   Allow me to provide some context regarding the RJMEC’s role in this regard. Under Article 7.6 of the R-ARCSS, RJMEC is responsible for monitoring and overseeing the implementation of the Agreement and the mandate and tasks of the RTGoNU, including adherence of the Parties to the agreed timelines and implementation schedule. Under Article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS “the Revitalized Agreement may be amended by the Parties, with at least two-thirds of the members of the Council of Ministers of the RTGoNU, and at least two-thirds of the voting members of the RJMEC consenting to the amendment, followed by ratification by the Transitional National Legislature”.

3.   The 1st Extraordinary Meeting of RJMEC was held almost six years ago, on 19th February 2019, to consider the budget of the National Pre-Transitional Committee (NPTC). The 2ndExtraordinary Meeting was held on 1st September 2022, during which the members consented to the  ‘Roadmap’, which extended the Transitional Period of the Revitalized Peace Agreement by two years to February 2025. 

4.   Over the last nineteen months of the implementation of the tasks provided for under the Roadmap, some progress has been registered, particularly: 

a.   Under Chapter 1 the reconstitution and operationalization of the critical election related institutions namely the Political Parties Council (PPC) and the National Elections Commission (NEC); completion of the review and amendment of the remaining laws by the National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC); registration of new political parties; completion by the ad-hoc Judicial Reforms Committee of its work, and enactment by the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) of several revised laws;

b.   Under Chapter II the completion of Phase 1 graduation of 55,000 Necessary Unified Forces (NUF), the deployment of eight (08) battalions of the army component of the NUF, as well as the appointment of 2995 non-commissioned police officers into the South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS), and the completion of the Strategic Defense and Security Review (SDSR) draft policy documents;

c.    Under Chapter III, the revised NGO Act Amendment Bill was endorsed by the RTGoNU Council of Ministers and submitted to the TNLA, and a consolidated Durable Solutions Framework for supporting the dignified return and reintegration of IDPs and Refugees was approved by the Council of Ministers;

d.   Under Chapter IV, reforms are ongoing in the resource, economic and public finance management; the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Authority (PPDA) has been created and is functional as required by the Agreement; several bills have been passed by the TNLA including: the Public Financial Management and Accountability (PFMA), Anti Corruption Act, the Bank of South Sudan and the Banking Acts. In addition, the Bill for the Fiscal Financial Allocation Monitoring Committee, which is to ensure transparency of allocations of national revenue to the States and Counties has been approved by the Council of Ministers and now awaits tabling before the TNLA. 

e.    Under Chapter V on Transitional Justice and Accountability, the Ministry of Justice undertook and completed a countrywide consultation which resulted into the drafting and enactment of the bills for the establishment of the Commission on Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and Compensation and Reparations Authority (CRA) by the TNLA, which now awaits assent of the President.

f.     Under Chapter VI- the law for the making of the permanent constitution was enacted, and the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) was reconstituted and has commenced its work. The Commission has since held several orientation and training workshops, and developed and adopted all its internal governing instruments. 

5.  However, despite the aforementioned progress, some very critical tasks remain pending. These include enactment of the Petroleum related bills, the Audit Chamber, and the NGO Bills; the finalization and implementation of the Judicial Reform Commission (JRC) reports; the completion of Phase I and commencement of Phase II unification of forces, and the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) and Disarmament Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) processes; establishment and operationalization of the  Commission for Truth Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and Compensations and Reparation Authority (CRA); the making of the Permanent Constitution, and ensuring sufficient preparation for the conduct of elections. 

6.  As RJMEC, we have repeatedly expressed our concerns over the slow pace and limited progress in completing the critical requirements for elections, and the lack of sufficient funding for the implementation of the  Agreement. In March this year, we requested the Parties to the R-ARCSS to dialogue on the way forward to ensure the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections in a timely manner as per the Roadmap, but despite all the pressure put, the response has been slow to come out in an appropriate time frame. However today, the RTGoNU will shortly brief you on the process and outcome of the interparty dialogue and the decisions that have been made by the Parties as a way forward to elections. 

7.   As RJMEC, our primary concern has been the lack of dedicated and predictable funding in this peace process. Therefore, any extension, without guaranteed funding, is not likely to result in a successful outcome. I therefore call upon the RTGoNU to demonstrate to RJMEC members, how funding in particular, and the other recurrent challenges that have held back the implementation of the R-ARCSS in the past will be remedied to ensure that the critical pending tasks will be completed and elections held as promised.

8.   I therefore invite all of you RJMEC voting members, pursuant to Article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS, to deliberate and pronounce yourselves on the Parties’ decision, which calls for amendment of Article 1.1.2 of the Revitalized Agreement, to further extend the Transitional Period from 22ndFebruary 2025 to 22nd February 2027. 

9.   I wish you fruitful deliberations.

I Thank You.

-       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. 

  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!

-      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!