• 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!

-       Excellencies 

-       Honourable Members of Parliament 

-       Distinguished Guests 

-       Ladies and Gentlemen

Good morning to you all! 

1.   I would like to commend the organisers for this timely and relevant workshop as South Sudan prepares for elections to choose its leaders, reflecting the democratic aspirations of its people as enshrined in the Revitalised Peace Agreement. I am happy to see that women leaders were accorded a separate meeting, as this will provide a conducive environment for the exploration of gender sensitive options under the theme “Uniting for a Peaceful Political Transition and Elections in South Sudan”. The gathering of women leaders together for this important task also gives credence to the key role that women play and must continue to play in the implementation of the peace agreement. It further gives recognition that indeed the meaningful inclusion of women leads to more durable peace and development. 

2.   In the year 2000, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) adopted the landmark UNSC Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. This resolution urges member states to ensure the prevention of conflict against women, promote the protection of women during conflicts, and ensure the participation of women in conflict resolution and post-conflict reconstruction of their communities. This resolution further urges member states to increase the representation of women at all decision-making levels in national, regional, and international institutions. South Sudan became a member of the United Nations after its independence in 2011 and endorsed UNSC Resolution 1325.

3.   The African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance adopted in 2004 to which South Sudan ratified in 2014, requires political parties to create the necessary conditions for full and active participation of women in the decision-making processes and structures at all levels as a fundamental element in the promotion and exercise of a democratic culture.  It further requires political parties to take all possible measures to encourage the full and active participation of women in the electoral process and ensure gender parity in representation at all levels, including legislatures.

4.   This therefore calls for women to develop strategies that will enable them to get involved and establish their roles throughout the peace process, the  elections period and generally in the social political and economic reconstruction of the society. Women must be enabled to participate in all political spheres including the transition process. Their inclusion must not be superficial but of such a nature that tangibly impacts the lives of women and girls. It  is therefore time to recognize the role and power of women in the peace-process and in shaping the future of post-conflict South Sudan. 

Distiquished Ladies and Gentlemen

5.   Women in South Sudan make up more than 50% of the population but don’t fair well in terms of representation at the political level, be it at the Executive, state, county or any other level. In the course of monitoring the Peace Agreement during the Transitional Period, RJMEC noted that, overall, the appointments to the Executive fell short of the required minimum of 35% women’s representation as provided for in article 1.4.4 and 1.12.5 of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R–ARCSS). In the most recent appointments to reconstitute the election related institutions, women got 33% in National Constititution Review Commission, 22% in the National Electoral Commission and 50 % in the Political Parties Council. Only the Political Parties Council (PPC) met the minimum threshold expected by the Revitalized Agreement; not to mention that there is only one female governor out of ten in the Country.

Consequently, I would like to underscore the importance of gender inclusion and mainstreaming in all aspects of the peace process and more importantly in political leadership. It is imperative to ensure deliberate and conscious consideration of women in all political and institutional  processes and in accordance to the Agreement mandated minimum threshold level of 35%, as this is a fundamental and key requirement in reducing inequalities.

6.   Women have borne the brunt of politically motivated violence (including sexual and gender based violence) during conflict and many a times get targeted solely due to their gender. Women face a myriad of many challenges such discrimination due to the culture of patriarchy, lack of awareness on political processes, low literacy levels and lack of support to compete for leadership positions. Women politicians need to be empowered economically, in order to compete on equal footing with men. Without sound economic support women cannot compete in an uneven environment where the wealth is basically monopolized by the few who are predominantly men. It also requires political leadership, strong legislation and effective mechanisms to force compliance, along with extensive education and awareness-raising in the community and in the media and other spaces.

7.   On the other hand and with all due respect, women should not hesitate to use existing post-conflict opportunities to enhance their political influence; they should leverage women's networks, other networks and organizations to gain access to political opportunities; they should maximize the exisiting opportunities to challenge gender biased systems and push for the review laws and policies that undermine their positions; they should persuade and push for strong women leaders to take up the leadership mantle and drive the right agenda forward. Women should strive to learn the rules of the game, which unfortunately are based on male connotations. They should also consider identifying and aligning with male allies who are supportive of women empowerment objectives to champion their cause. 

8.   This notwithstanding, political parties must still play their role in ensuring the substaintive political representation and participation of women in various way including through the adoption of decisive and effective strategies and practices. Parties must provide opportunities for women in the process of political decision-making, through adaptation of appropriate legal, administrative and procedural rules, regulations and codes of conduct, that would enable the parties to meet such noble objectives. While women's space at the decision-making tables, during the post-conflict reconstruction efforts, has historically been absent or marginal, today an increasing numbers of women and women's groups are realizing the significance of their active participation and contribution to the peace process.

Distiquished Ladies and Gentlemen

9.   This workshop therefore provides renewed opportunity to reflect on the challenges women face in the electoral political space and propose lasting solutions. The Revitalized  Peace Agreement sees women as central players and proposes the mainstreaming of gender and women  enhancing representation in responsibility sharing. The Agreement expects women to be provided opportunity and are  expected to serve at all levels of governance.

10.        As you deliberate, I would like to suggest that in your deliberations you consider regional standard and best practices such as international human rights instruments like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), and The Protocol to the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR), on the Rights of Women in Africa commonly referred to as the Maputo Protocol which call for gender equality and women’s meaningful participation in the political, economic and social-cultural spaces. Additionally, consider borrowing from domestic legal frameworks including the Permanent Ceasefire of the R-ARCSS that seeks to address and prevent violence against women in the Transitional Period. 

11.        In conclusion, I am hopeful that your efforts here today will inform  the eventual codes of conduct which I believe are essential tools in regulating all actors during the elections period, and will help protect women in all phases of the electoral process, increase women participation for the democratic process as well as address the conflict targeted at women for whatever reasons. 

12.        To the women leaders of South Sudan, I wish to encourage you to continue the good fight for justice and inclusion. Your demands for inclusion should be seen as part of the long arch of the moral universe that always bends towards truth, justice and freedom. May your efforts resoundingly impact the current and future generations of women that will follow in your footsteps in the quest for a better South Sudan.

13.        I wish you fruitful deliberations. I also wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2024 !

I Thank You!

-       Excellencies 

-       Honourable Members of Parliament 

-       Distinguished Guests 

-       Ladies and Gentlemen

1.    Good morning. I would like to thank the organisers of this event for putting together this workshop at this timely moment. I also wish to commend the Parties for their attendance and their continued commitment to the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement.

2.    The Political Parties Forum is an important framework to enhance political space for members of political parties to build trust, share information, reconnect, negotiate political issues, and promote political space for all political actors. RJMEC has had the opportunity to participate in several of these forums at national and state level and can attest to their positive impact.

3.    I am aware that during this year, these forums have provided Parties with the opportunity to dialogue on several issues in support of the implementation of the R-ARCSS. These discussions have included among others the status of implementation of the Roadmap, electoral timelines and processes, the roles of political parties in the democratic transition, the expansion of the political and civic space, the creation of a level playing field for all parties in the election process, and the development of strategies to further trust and confidence building between political parties. This is indeed commendable. 

4.    Therefore, it is important to understand that political parties are essential for democracies to function, as well as for the promotion of peace and stability and the prevention of violent conflict. Their functions, representation, interest aggregation and articulation, recruitment of electoral candidates and the formation of government, cannot be duplicated by any other civil society or private organization.

5.    Democratization is always a politically contentious process, and this is particularly true in volatile post-conflict settings. Without strong political and state institutions, components of democratization such as elections and political party competition can raise tensions or, in extreme cases, lead to renewed conflict. Therefore, it is essential to support inclusive multi-party dialogues in order to help parties to overcome mistrust and suspicion, which often obstruct pragmatic dialogue on national political concerns.  

6.    A multiparty system cannot function effectively in a country emerging from a post conflict situation, when there is no willingness to discuss divergent views, where trust is eroded and no one party is willing to seek consensus and mutual understanding. However, political parties’ development and multiparty dialogues are necessary steps towards the creation of stable, democratic political systems that can be conducive to development, the protection of human rights, conflict prevention and resolution of conflict.

7.    The stability and effectiveness of a political party system is not only determined by its legal framework, but by the checks and balances within the system, and the parties’ organization and general democratic practices within the party. The stability and effectiveness of political parties hinge upon the existence of mechanisms for parties to engage in interparty dialogue and cooperation, especially in a post conflict situation.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,  

8.    According to the Revitalised Agreement, elections are due to take place about one year from now in December 2024 and 60 days prior to the end of the Transitional Period. The Agreement requires that the elections birth a democratically elected government and should be free, fair, credible and reflect the will of the electorate. Credible elections and election processes are therefore a vital corner stone in the laying of the foundation for a united, peaceful and prosperous South Sudan.

9.    The Revitalized Agreement prohibits the Parties to the Agreement from committing certain acts by the Permanent Ceasefire during the Transitional Period which includes the electoral period. Actions such as engaging in hostile propaganda or hate speech including social media to foment ethnic or secretion hatred are prohibited. Violent actions such as attacking the civilian population, sexual and gender-based violence are also strictly prohibited. Parties are also required to take specific positive measures such as protection of the media, civil society and the most vulnerable population in the Transitional Period. The Revitalized Agreement requires the Parties to ensure accountability against their own members in the event of any such breaches. 

It is important for the parties to consider drawing lessons from the experience of the Permanent Ceasefire, of which we have so far achieved in terms of continued observance, on the one hand and making all effort to ensure safety and credibility of elections that is nonviolent.  

10.    Furthermore, the National Elections Act provides that the National Election Commission should develop legally binding codes of conduct for persons who wish to participate in elections such as candidates, parties and others. It is therefore important for South Sudan to consider drawing up such rules that circumscribe acceptable and unacceptable conduct of those who participate in elections so that they can be free, fair and credible. 

11.    In addition, the African Union Peace and Security Council, at its 1186th Meeting held 16thNovember 2023 in Addis Ababa Ethiopia, through its Communique, urged the parties to negotiate a code of conduct and sign it with full authority to commit themselves to fairness, respect, accountability and acceptability to South Sudan regardless of appointments or results of the elections. 

12.    With this in mind, I therefore urge the parties to robustly engage with each other bearing in mind that a broad, inclusive dialogue among all political parties helps to build relationships based on trust, democratic tolerance and transparency and facilitates the exchange of good practices.  This constructive dialogue can help build consensus on practical steps that can be taken to secure the electoral environment for the country and ensure attainment of necessary milestones including the timely conduct of elections. 

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,  

13.    This September 2023 marked five years since the Revitalised Peace Agreement was signed in September 2018. South Sudan has now experienced the longest period of peace and stability since its independence in 2011. This is a commendable achievement for which I congratulate the Parties and the people of South Sudan. Clearly the theme of this convening being “Uniting for a Peaceful Political Transition and Elections in South Sudan” is quite appropriate considering where we are, in the implementation process. I commend the organizers for choosing this theme and wish you all fruitful deliberations.

14.    I wish you good tidings for the holidays, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.

I Thank You. 

-       Your Excellency Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan;

-       Your Excellency Dr Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon, First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Governance Cluster; 

-       Your Excellency, Dr James Wani Igga, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Economic Cluster; 

-       Your Excellency, Gen. Taban Deng Gai, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Infrastructure Cluster;

-       Your Excellency, Hussein Abdelbagi, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Services Cluster;  

-       Your Excellency, Rebecca Nyandeng De Mabior, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of Youth and Gender Cluster; 

-       The Rt Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba, Speaker of the Reconstituted TNLA;

-       Honourable Ministers;

-       Your Excellencies Governors, Chief Administrators of the Administrative Areas, and Deputy Governors;

-       Your Excellencies Ambassadors, 

-       Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning!

1.   It is my great honour to address the 7th Governors’ Forum this morning, in my capacity as the Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC). At the outset, I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate His Excellency the President, Salva Kiir Mayardit, the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) and the people of South Sudan, for taking the additional responsibility of chairing the seven-member State organisation of the East African Community. This responsibility further places South Sudan into regional and international focus at this critical period of her political life, as the country gears up for elections. Consequently, the approach, speed, commitment, and adherence by the RTGoNU on the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution to the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), will be very crucial and imperative, in enhancing regional and international trust and confidence of the country and its leadership of the East African Community. I would therefore like to once again emphasise the responsibility of the RTGoNU executives at national and state levels to ensure full and timely implementation of the Revitalised Agreement. 

2.   I would like to commend the Ministry of Presidential Affairs and the Office of the President, with support from the UNDP and UNMISS, for continuing to organise this influential event. The key issues that have been set for consideration by this Forum include public finance management, the role of Governors and Chief Administrators in readying South Sudan for elections, and addressing national humanitarian challenges.

3.   This Forum is taking place at a critical time, given that elections are scheduled to take place as per the Roadmap in 13 months from now. Therefore, it is entirely appropriate that the theme of this year’s Governors’ Forum is ‘Fostering National Cohesion: South Sudan’s Path to Peaceful Transition for Democratic Governance.’ It is clear that the prospect of elections is accompanied by optimism and uncertainty among the people of South Sudan, therefore the emphasis on national cohesion is welcome.

4.   The recent steps forward, in the implementation of key Peace Agreement tasks help to allay some of the uncertainty, but this needs to be accompanied by more progress. Accordingly, I believe it is important to recall last year’s theme, which was: ‘Accelerating the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement in accordance with the Roadmap 2022.’ Clearly, even today, acceleration of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement is still needed. This is evidenced by the fact that there is slow progress in the implementation of the Agreement since the last Governors’ Forum. 

5.   My statement this morning, as per the mandate of RJMEC, will provide a chapter-by-chapter update on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement. I will also highlight key pending tasks, recurring challenges, and conclude with some reflections.  

Excellencies,

6.   Regarding the status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement, concerning governance, since the last Governors’ Forum, the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) has passed several amendment bills, including: the National Revenue Authority, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Banking, and the Bank of South Sudan, which now await Presidential assent. Furthermore, the National Elections Act and the Constitution-making Process Act were enacted, both critical pieces of legislation for the conduct of elections, as per the Peace Agreement. However, the National Security Services Bill, the National Audit Chamber Bill and the Public Finance Management and Accountability Bill are awaiting enactment by the reconstituted TNLA.

7.   At the start of this month, November 2023, the Political Parties Council (PPC), the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) and the National Elections Commission (NEC) were reconstituted. These institutions are mandated, among others, to register, oversee and regulate activities of political parties; drive forward the permanent constitution-making process; and prepare and conduct elections respectively. The timely operationalisation and adequate resourcing of these key institutions is needed to ensure their effective functioning, and will also pave the way towards the expansion and protection of civic and political space. 

8.   The restructuring and reconstitution of the Institutions and Commissions at the national level, such as the Land Commission, the Independent Fiscal and Financial Allocation Monitoring Commission, and the Anti-Corruption Commission, among others, which were to have been completed in 2022, according to the Roadmap, are still pending. 

9.   Furthermore, the Agreement provides for judicial reforms in the Republic of South Sudan during the Transitional Period. Pursuant to this requirement, the ad hoc Judicial Reform Committee (JRC) was established to study and recommend appropriate reforms of the judiciary. Since its establishment in June 2022, the Committee made some strides towards its mandate. It held consultations in the Greater Upper Nile, Greater Bahr el Ghazal and Greater Equatoria regions, as well as in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area. Recently, its work stalled due to funding constraints for its leadership. Completion of this Committee’s work will inform the next steps in the reforms of the judiciary and is directly linked to, among others, review of the Judiciary Act, reconstitution of the Judicial Service Commission, and the establishment of an independent Constitutional Court.

10. In terms of security, the Permanent Ceasefire largely holds despite sporadic skirmishes. On 15 November 2023, the first phase of redeployment of the military component of the 55,000  graduated Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) commenced.  The Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) is encouraged to continue and complete this process. Training and subsequent redeployment of Phase 2 of the unified forces is yet to commence, though its completion would significantly contribute to the peace and security of the country before, during and after elections. 

11. Furthermore, the Strategic Defence and Security Review Board completed the drafting of the security policy documents, which await validation. The completion of this comprehensive security assessment, including the formulation of defence and security policies, is a critical requirement which will lead to security sector transformation, thus promoting and defending the sovereignty and dignity of South Sudan and its people. Similarly, there are concerns that the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) has not been seriously addressed or resourced. This is an important process for peace and security, as it ensures that those who are ineligible for the unification are managed and enabled to return to civilian life through DDR programmes. 

12. The Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), continues to work, albeit with operational challenges arising from funding and administrative issues. These challenges notwithstanding, CTSAMVM has produced nine violation reports since May 2023. The reports have not been published because the CTSAMVM Technical Committee (CTC) and the Board have not met since then. The issue of the Technical Committee is being handled by  the Principals of the Parties

13. On the other hand, intercommunal violence and activities of some holdout groups continue to be a source of insecurity in several parts of the country.  Security matters at the subnational level require collective responsibility and collaboration at all levels of government, especially at this time as the country prepares for elections.  

Excellencies,

14. The humanitarian situation remains dire, and continues to worsen due to widespread flooding, high levels of food insecurity, and the influx of those fleeing the conflict in Sudan. Meanwhile, international humanitarian support is reducing. Consequently, to meet some of these challenges, the Agreement provides for the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund and Board. Upon its establishment, the RTGoNU is expected to provide the Fund with USD 100 million per annum. This Fund would help address humanitarian needs in South Sudan, with priorities given to conflict affected states and areas, including the protection of IDPs, returnees and families affected by the conflict. 

15. Regarding resource, economic and financial management, overall, public financial reforms have been slow. Nevertheless, the Public Finance Management (PFM) Oversight Committee continues to ensure the implementation of a medium-term economic and financial management reform programme. For example, the reforms have resulted in improved transparency in reporting on oil and non-oil revenue, and meanwhile, the setting up of a Single Treasury Account is underway. 

16. Considering that this Governors’ Forum has expressed a focus on public finance management, it is worth highlighting some key areas that are  in need of greater attention and progress, These include:

a)   completion of the audits designed to enhance the transparent management of the petroleum resources, such as the cost recovery audit and environment audit;

b)   completion of the audit of the RTGoNU’s Financial Statements from 2011, and the banking laws to be assented to by the President;

c)    review of the independent Fiscal and Financial Allocation Monitoring Commission and the terms of increment and formulae for the sharing of natural resource wealth amongst states and communities, and devolution of powers and resources;

d)   closing any Petroleum revenue accounts other than those approved by law;

e)   finalisation of the relevant legislation and operationalisation of the National Audit Chamber and the Anti-Corruption Commission.

Excellencies,

17. On Transitional Justice, following public consultations, study tours to The Gambia and South Africa and an international conference held in Juba, the bills for the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) were drafted, endorsed by the Council of Ministers, and now await tabling before the reconstituted TNLA. In view of this Forum’s theme on social cohesion, the timely establishment of these two bodies should be given the utmost priority. As for the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS), no progress has been made thus far towards its establishment.

18. The Permanent Constitution is a critical requirement for the conduct of elections in accordance with the Agreement. The people-led and people-owned constititution is also expected to initiate a federal and democratic system of government. In this regard, the recent appointment of members to the reconstituted National Constitutional Review Commission is a welcome development. However, much work lies ahead of the Commission in making the new constitution, including the recruitment of the Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC), the conduct of civic education, and public consultations. In addition, the establishment of the Preparatory Sub-Committee (PSC) for the convening of the National Constitutional Conference, which will deliberate and adopt the new constitution, is still pending. 

Excellencies,

19. In spite of the progress mentioned, challenges continue to slow down the implementation of the Peace Agreement. They include, among others, inadequate funding to the Agreement Institutions and Mechanisms; trust deficit among the Parties; capacity gaps; inter-communal violence; insecurity caused by military defections and activities of holdout groups; severe flooding; influx of returnees and refugees fleeing Sudan; and reduced international funding. 

20. In light of the aforestated, I would like to conclude with the following reflections on the theme of this Forum.

a)   community security and social cohesion are two vital elements of preparations for elections and South Sudan’s peaceful transition. Therefore, initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of intercommunal violence are important.

b)   State Governments have a critical role to play in providing a conducive environment for the expansion and protection of civic and political space, the making of the permanent constitution, and the conduct of elections. 

c)    more broadly, national security would be strengthened by completing the unification of forces, and their deployment across the country to provide election-related security. In that regard, availing funding and political support to DDR programmes is essential, especially for those ineligible for the NUF.

d)    it is clear that some states have been disproportionately affected by the growing humanitarian crisis, and in this regard, RJMEC continues to call for the establishment of the Special Reconstruction Fund and Board, and the convening of the Pledging Conference. This would raise funds to help South Sudan respond to the humanitarian challenges faced.

e)   concerning natural resource management, it is important to ensure the final endorsement of the 2023 Land Policy, review the Land Act, and establish an independent land registry at all levels of government for the issuance of title deeds.

f)    the establishment and operationalisation of the Commission of Truth, Reconciliation and Healing and the Compensation and Reparation Authority will build public confidence, promote reconciliation and set in motion the process of healing and strengthening social cohesion. 

g)   a people-led and people-owned constitution is critical in pursuing the path to peaceful transition to democratic governance, and in this regard, the importance of expediting the constitution-making process cannot be overemphasised. 

h)   the centrality of social cohesion with gender perspective is key to reducing inequalities. Therefore, it is critical to ensure the participation of women in all political processes ahead; and in accordance to the Agreement-mandated minimum threshold level of 35%. Equally important is as well as giving deliberate due consideration to the Youth and People Living with Disabilities. 

Excellencies,

21. In conclusion, it is expected that this high-level Governors’ Forum will deliberate and agree on concrete practical steps to address the challenges slowing down the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement as aforementioned. It is important to underscore the need for continuous dialogue, close collaboration and collegiality at all levels of government in order to strengthen the processes and institutions of governance nationwide.

22.  In this way, the levels of social cohesion and public confidence needed to hold free, fair and credible elections can continue to be built. Thus, delivering on the promises of the Revitalised Peace Agreement to the people of South Sudan and ‘to lay the foundation for a united, peaceful and prosperous society, based on justice, equality, respect for human rights and rule of law.’

I Thank You.  

OPENING REMARKS BY AMBASSADOR BERHANU KEBEDE, RJMEC CHIEF OF STAFF, DELIVERED AT THE THIRD STAKEHOLDERS’ HIGH-LEVEL MEETING ON ENVIRONMENTAL RELATED ISSUED IN THE OIL PRODUCING AREAS AND THE STATUS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 5% SHARE OF NET OIL REVENUES FOR OIL PRODUCING STATES AND COMMUNITIES 24-26 OCTOBER 2023