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Report by H.E. Amb. Lt. Gen. Augostino Njoroge Interim Chairperson, RJMEC On the Status of Implementation of the R-ARCSS Submitted to the 71st Extraordinary Session of of the IGAD Council of Ministers
April 23,2020

  • Your Excellency, Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers

  • -  Excellencies, Members of the Council

  • -  Your Excellency, IGAD Executive Secretary

  • -  Your Excellency, IGAD Special Envoy to South Sudan

  • -  Honourable Ministers,

  • -  Excellencies,

  • -  Ladies and Gentlemen,

  1. It is an honour to present to the Council my report on the status of implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). This report builds on the briefing I made to the members of the 70thExtraordinary Session of the IGAD Council of Ministers held on 8th February 2020 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

  2. My report highlights the prevailing political, security, humanitarian and economic situation in South Sudan as well as the status of the implementation of the R-ARCSS and concludes with recommendations.

    Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

  3. The Council may recall that in my last briefing, I informed of the outstanding Pre- Transitional tasks critical for laying a firm foundation for the formation of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU). These included, among others, the resolution of the number of States and their boundaries; allocation of ministerial and deputy ministerial portfolios to the Parties to the Agreement; ratification of and assent to the Constitutional Amendment Bill (No. 6) 2020; restructuring and reconstitution of the Transitional National Legislature (i.e. the Transitional National Legislative Assembly and the Council of States); and selection, screening, training and redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF).

  4. On the issue of the number of States, this matter was resolved when President Salva Kiir Mayardit returned the country to ten (10) States and communicated this formally to the Chairperson of IGAD. While announcing this critical decision on 15th February 2020, President Salva Kiir Mayardit also named three administrative areas in the Republic of South Sudan as Abyei Administrative Area (AAA), Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) and Ruweng Administrative Area (RAA).

 

  1. In addition, the President assented to the Constitutional Amendment Bill (No. 6) 2020 on 19th February 2020. The RTGoNU was established on 22nd February 2020 with the swearing in of the First Vice President and the Four Vice Presidents.

  2. On 12th March 2020, the President appointed the members of the Council of Ministers and Deputy Ministers of the RTGoNU. However, the Parties did not adhere to the 35% mandatory provision for women participation in the Executive as these appointments stood at only 26% and 10% respectively. I have urged that the Incumbent TGoNU and SPLM/A-IO rectify this violation in line with articles 1.12.2 and 1.12.5 of the R-ARCSS, and all the Parties adhere to the 35% provision in their future nominations.

  3. The Council will appreciate that the formation of the RTGoNU and its Council ofMinisters are significant steps towards full establishment of the RTGoNU’s structure andcomposition. It is, however, regrettable that delays have persisted in the restructuring and reconstitution of the TNLA and the Council of States, and agreement between the Parties on the responsibility sharing at the State and Local Government levels.

  4. The Parties to the R-ARCSS have tried to address the issue of responsibility sharing at the State and Local Government levels in recent weeks, including the three Administrative Areas, through inter-party consultations. Unfortunately, they have failed to agree on the way forward. Consequently, Dr Riek Machar Teny, First Vice President and Chairperson of the SPLM/A-IO, sought my intervention to assist the Parties break the deadlock, in line with article 7.11 of the R-ARCSS.

  5. I convened a consultative meeting of the representatives of the Parties to the R-ARCSS on 27th March 2020 in an attempt to break the deadlock on responsibility sharing at the State and Local Government levels. The Parties, however, failed to agree on the way forward. I have also continued to engage with the top leadership of the Agreement Parties in a bid to find a solution. I made a proposal to the Agreement Parties as per article 1.16.1 of the R-ARCSS, but to date, there is still no positive outcome on this matter to report to the Council.

    Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

  6. On the legislative reforms as provided for in the R-ARCSS, the NCAC has continued to work on the review and amendments of the economic and financial sector laws in order to strengthen fiscal responsibility, accountability and control in the management of public funds. The laws under review include the Public Financial Management and Accountability Act, 2011 and the National Audit Chamber Act, 2011. The Committee has received and reviewed submissions to both laws from the key institutions, and the process is at an advanced stage. The reviews of the Petroleum Revenue Management Act 2012 and the Petroleum Act, 2012 have also begun.

  1. TheNCACisalsomandatedtoreceivealistofnomineesfromtheAgreementPartiesto be appointed members of the reconstituted TNLA as per articles 1.14.2 and 1.18.1.4 of the Agreement. The R-ARCSS stipulates that the duration and term of the TNLA shall run concurrently with that of the RTGoNU with effect from the commencement of the Transitional Period. I wrote to the Agreement Parties about their obligation under the R-ARCSS to submit the list of their nominees to the NCAC. Yet, to date, the NCAC has only received the list of nominees from the Former Detainees (FDs). I have therefore written again to the leadership of the Parties reminding them of the urgency to submit their nominees to the NCAC.

  2. There is concern arising from the alterations detected by the NCAC in the Constitutional Amendment Act (No. 6) 2020, which appear to have been made after the NCAC submitted the Constitutional Amendment Bill (No. 6) 2020 to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs of the ITGoNU. The Act, which was assented to by H.E Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan on 19th February 2020, is different in substance from the Bill that the NCAC submitted to the ITGoNU. Accordingly, I have brought this matter to the attention of the President for rectification.

  3. The SPLM/A-IO leadership raised concerns with me on the procedures used for recent political appointments made by the President for the various office holders, including: the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum vide Decree No. 37/2020 dated March 13, 2020; six (06) Ambassadors vide Decree No. 28/2020 dated 26 February 2020 and Decree No. 30/2020 dated 27 February 2020; the Governor and two (02) Deputy Governors of the Bank of South Sudan vide Decree No. 09/2020 dated 22 January 2020 and Decree No. 39/2020 dated 25 March 2020, which are perceived to be inconsistent with the provisions of the R-ARCSS. I have raised these concerns with H.E. the President and also indicated the procedures required by the R-ARCSS for the various appointments and I am still awaiting further response.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

  1. Concerning the general security situation in the country, the Permanent Ceasefire has continued to hold due to the Agreement Parties adhering to the provisions of the R- ARCSS. Fighting in Maiwut between the SPLA-IO forces allied to SSPDF and the SPLA- IO forces allied to Dr Riek Machar was resolved through a Reconciliation Committee agreement on 11th February 2020. However, there are concerns that the same parties to the conflict renewed clashes in Maiwut and Jakou areas in early April. Furthermore, there are reports of new abductions in some parts of the Equatorias despite signing of the Rome Declaration.

  2. There are also concerns of reports of intermittent violent inter-communal clashes in several States and the Abyei Administrative Area. This violence is partly attributed to the leadership vacuum as a result of delays in the appointment of Governors in the respective States.

  3. On the status of implementation of the Transitional Security Arrangements, there are about 78,500 security personnel currently registered at the various cantonment sites, barracks and training centres. According to CTSAMVM reports, about 35,000 combatants still remain in cantonment sites and about 45,500 personnel, with 3,612 being women, are in various training centres. Screening and training of the NUF and the VIP Protection Forces are yet to be completed.

  4. There are various challenges reported at cantonment sites and training centres. These include: insufficient food supply; lack of medicines; poor sanitary conditions; and lack of separate facilities and dignity kits for female trainees and dependents at the centres. The recent announcement by the RTGoNU of the establishment of a Transitional Committee for Coordination of the Implementation of Security Arrangements is a positive indication that the RTGoNU will focus on and complete the pending security tasks. Despite the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and its challenges, training of NUF continues albeit with restricted access to the training centres.

  5. The Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) Commission is undertaking an assessment of the ex-combatants currently being screened out from the training process, and has registered about 14 000. The Commission has also conducted regional visits and discussed the establishment of 8 DDR transit sites across the country with respective local authorities. The Commission has also completed the drafting of a revised DDR Strategic Plan and Programme. However, the DDR Commission continues to face various challenges, including lack of funding and inadequate coordination with other Transitional Security Institutions and Mechanisms.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

  1. Concerning the humanitarian situation, the UNOCHA’s March 2020 Snapshot estimates that 7.5 million people in South Sudan are in need of humanitarian assistance and 6 million are reported to be severely food insecure. A decline in funding, and the continuing inter-communal violence in Abyei, Lakes, Jonglei and Warrap States have led to a reduced humanitarian footprint in the areas of need. Further, the locusts’ invasion in the Equatoria and Lakes regions coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic will affect food production.

  2. Furthermore, about 600,000 refugees and internally displaced persons have spontaneously returned home since the signing of the R-ARCSS. Most of the displaced persons and refugees, however, are not yet confident enough to voluntarily return home despite the general improvement in the security situation in the country owing to the lack of basic services in the areas of return. The spontaneous returns have now been hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

  3. On the economy, the recent collapse of the oil prices, reflecting the global economic downturn relating to the recent COVID-19 pandemic has led to a drastic decline in oil revenues. South Sudan’s oil revenues were budgeted at around US $ 55 per barrel forthe current budget year, but at the end of March, the price of oil fell to less than US $ 25. If the loss of oil revenues persists, then budgeting will become very challenging.

    Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

  4. Theemergingglobalhealthchallengesnotwithstanding,theRJMECisreconstitutingthe six thematic RJMEC Working Committees in the coming days, as per Article 7.3 of the R-ARCSS and Clause 9 of the RJMEC Terms of Reference. These Working Committees will interface with a combination of the RTGoNU Ministerial clusters and relevant lineministries. The Working Committees will be RJMEC’s core platform to developmonitoring and evaluation indicators for each chapter, evaluate progress of implementation, assess capacity, identify gaps and recommend remedial steps towards effective implementation of the R-ARCSS.

 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

  1. Before I conclude, I have the following observations to make regarding the overall implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. The pace of implementation has slowed markedly due to a number of impediments that include, among others, the following:

    1. the low level of trust and confidence and the spirit of collegial leadership is lacking resulting in the absence of political reconciliation between the Parties to implement the R-ARCSS in letter and spirit;

    2. unjustifiable delays to implement outstanding tasks of the R-ARCSS due to deliberate action by some Parties to the Agreement, including the failure to nominate members to the TNLA and to compromise on responsibility sharing at the State and Local Government levels;

    3. violations of the R-ARCSS, including (i) the alterations made to Constitutional Amendment Bill (No.6) 2020 after it was submitted to the ITGoNU by the NCAC; (ii) the failure of the Parties to adhere to the 35% provision for women participation in the Executive of the RTGoNU; and (iii) the political appointments undertaken after the formation of the RTGoNU that are inconsistent with the provisions of the R-ARCSS;

    4. defections of some members of the security forces from one group to the other at the time when the process of unification of forces is ongoing; and

    5. impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

  2. As a consequence, these issues are undermining the effective implementation of the R- ARCSS. The Council, therefore, needs to pay attention to them so that the challenges are rectified.

    Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

  3. I would like to conclude with the following recommendations.

    1. The Council to:prevail on the Parties to expedite the implementation of the outstanding tasks of the R-ARCSS, which were carried over from the Pre-Transitional Period;

 

  1. urge the RTGoNU to rectify the alterations made to the Constitutional Amendment Bill (No.6) 2020;

  2. encourage the Agreement Parties to address the shortfall of the 35% provision for women participation in the Executive of the RTGoNU;

  3. prevail on the Agreement Parties to amicably and expeditiously resolve the deadlock on responsibility sharing at the State and Local Government levels;

  4. appeal to all Agreement Parties to adhere to the timelines of implementation of activities of the Transitional Period;

  5. urge the Agreement Parties who have not yet submitted their lists of nominees for the TNLA to the NCAC to do so without further delay;

  6. appeal to the Regional Guarantors, International Partners and Friends of South Sudan to provide the requisite support for the implementation of the R-ARCSS;

  7. encourage the Presidency to enhance collegial collaboration and continuous consultations;

  8. urge the RTGoNU to put in place progammes for the voluntary, safe and dignified return and resettlement of displaced persons and refugees; and

  9. continue to adhere to the IGAD Declaration on the COVID-19 Pandemic in order to mitigate the threat posed to the population.

26. Finally, I wish to reassure the Council that the RJMEC remains fully committed to discharge its mandate in the face of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

I thank you.

STATEMENT BY H.E. AMB. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC TO THE 14th RJMEC MONTHLY MEETING, Thursday, 20th February 2020 Juba, South Sudan
February 20,2020

HonourableMinisters, 

Excellencies, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

1.   I wish to start my statement by expressing profound sorrow at the passing on of H.E Chris Mburu the Kenyan ambassador to South Sudan, on Sunday 16thFebruary. On behalf of RJMEC, I wish to extend our condolences to his family, friends, the government and people of the Republic of Kenya. The RJMEC family has indeed lost an exemplary member, who devoted his time supporting the RJMEC in the discharge of its mandate. Wewill dearly miss him.

2.  I would like to commend H.E Salva Kiir Mayardit President of the Republic of South Sudan for the compromise he made on the 15thof February to revert the number of States to 10 as outlined in his letter to IGAD dated 15thFebruary 2020. In that regard, I applaud the leadership of IGAD and the regional Special Envoys for the role they played in helping the Parties to break the deadlock on the number and boundaries of states.  I urge the people of South Sudan, to welcome this decision, which will allow the formation of the RTGoNU in a timely manner and on a solid foundation.

3.  I further commend the Transitional National Legislative Assembly for ratifying the Constitutional Amendments Bill No. 6 (2020) as amended, and I am pleased to report that it has already been assented to by the President of the Republic of South Sudan. The Amended Constitution now provides the legal basis for the formation of the RTGoNU.

4.   The 100 days extension of the Pre-Transitional period ends on the 21stof February, and this meeting is the final opportunity to truly take stock of the status of implementation. At our last meeting, I informed you of my concern that two critical Pre-Transitional tasks were still outstanding i.e. the number of states and their boundaries as well as the training and redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces. I am pleased to report that with the issue of the number of states and their boundaries resolved, we are now left with that of the unification of forces.

5.   In my statement today, I will highlight the status of implementation of the pending Pre-Transitional tasks, since our last monthly meeting, relating to the security arrangements, outline some recurring issues, and I will then conclude with my recommendations on the way forward. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

6.   Firstly, on the unification of forces, CTSAMVM reports that significant progress has been made in moving personnel to the designated Training Centres, where at least 40,000 troops are currently assembled. Preliminary training activities are ongoing. So too is screening, which I witnessed recently in Rajaf Training Centre. Furthermore, at the Gorom training centre, I witnessed the assembly of 3339 trainees for the VIP Protection Force. However,training in accordance with the unification module is yet to start. JTSC should release this training module with immediate effect. 

7.   The unification process has been impeded by challenges including insufficient food, vehicles, medicines, shelter, and storage for food and weapons, and the lack of resources to cater for the special needs of female combatants and instructors. That said, I understand conditions across all the Training Centres are changing for the better. I expect to hear shortly from the JTSC on the status of screening and training, and in particular, I would like to hear when the training will commence in conformity with the unification module. 

8.   It is worth pointing out that overall, I found the morale and discipline among the trainees to be commendably high, in contrast to the conditions and the challenges at the training centres, which I mentioned earlier. Provision of basic needs such as clean water, soap, dignity packs, and the digging of pit latrines would go a long way towards improving the overall health and wellbeing of the trainees.  I urge the mechanisms responsible to address these challenges.  

9.   I am also concerned that cantonment sites may be closed or abandoned prior to the DDR transit sites being established. There must be a plan in place to deal with those personnel who fail to pass screening, those who do not complete training, or elect to go for reintegration into their communities.  At this stage it is not clear how this is going to be managed. I expect to receive an update from the JDB and the DDR Commission in this regard.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

10.    While I am pleased to note that the permanent ceasefire continues to hold across the country, I am concerned about the occupation of 22 civilian buildings by the government forces. In that regard, I have written to the Chief of Defense Forces of the SSPDF reminding him that this is a violation of the R-ARCSS and requested him to ensure that all the occupied civilian buildings are vacated immediately. I expect to hear from the CDF at this meeting about his efforts to comply with this requirement.

11.       As many of us may know, there have been discussions in Rome under the auspices of the Sant’Egidio organisation with a view to bring the hold-out groups into the peace process. It was agreed at the most recent Rome meeting to allow the South Sudan Opposition Movements Alliance (SSOMA) to become a member of CTSAMVM and to continue political dialogue under the auspices of Sant’Egidio and IGAD.We should welcome this development. 

12.       I am pleased to say that the issue of Maiwut clashes has now been resolved, with the Parties to the conflict agreeing to a permanent ceasefire and committing to a peaceful resolution. CTSAMVM is however verifying details of violations during the conflict and will submit a report to IGAD and to RJMEC in due course.

13.       In my address to the Council of Ministers on the 8thof February, I appealed that the region, the international community, Partners and Friends of South Sudan speak with one voice in support of the peace process in South Sudan. I am pleased to see that this call was heeded in the IGAD Heads of State and Government communiqué of 9thFebruary, and I urge all of us to take this appeal seriously.  

14.       Finally, it is clear that all must prepare for the formation of R-TGoNU. Accordingly, I would like to highlight the fact that in addition to the unification of forces mentioned previously, the following important Pre-Transitional tasks, have not yet been completed.

a)   enactment by the TNLA of the security laws;  

b)  submission of the Parties nominees for the Transitional National Legislative Assembly to the NCAC; and

c)   allocation of ministerial portfolios to the various Parties. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

15.       On the 18thof February, I and the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, Amb Wais, were invited to Khartoum by IGAD Chairperson for consultations. We had the opportunity to discuss recent developments in the implementation of the R-ARCSS, and the current situation and necessary preparatory steps towards the formation of the RTGoNU.

 16.       I can report that:

a.    Sudan as the IGAD Chair is fully seized of the situation in South Sudan and is discussing with other IGAD leaders on necessary steps to support the immediate formation of RTGoNU;

b.   The President of Sudan has promised to continue supporting the implementation of the Peace Agreement; and 

c.    The Chairman and the other IGAD leaders are in the process of preparing a roadmap towards the formation of the RTGoNU. The proposed roadmap will highlight key tasks, and necessary steps towards the formation of the RTGoNU as provided for in the Agreement. We hope to receive this roadmap as soon as it is ready.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

17.       I would like to close with my recommendations for the way forward. 

a)   that the unification of forces continues, with particular emphasis on expediting screening, training and redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces;

b)  ensure that the administration for trainees and logistics support to the training centres is improved;

c)   that the DDR Commission is empowered and funded so as to effectively deliver on its mandate;  

d)  that the Government of the Republic of South Sudanprovide the necessary funding to the Security Mechanisms, to enable continued progress in the unification of forces, subject to the principles of transparency and accountability;  

e)   that the international community, Partners and Friends of South Sudan continue to support the full implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement; and

f)    that the region, the international community, Partners and Friends of South Sudan speak with one voice in support of the peace process.

18.       In closing, and as we are approaching the date for the establishment of the RTGoNU, I call on the Parties to capitalise on the gains made since the signing of the R-ARCSS on the 12thSeptember 2018, and continue to build towards a lasting and sustainable peace in South Sudan.

19.       I wish you fruitful deliberations.

Thank you.

 

REMARKS BY H.E. AMB. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE INTERIM CHAIRPERSON AFRICAN UNION PEACE AND SECURITY COUNCIL 905TH MEETING MONDAY, 27 JANUARY 2020 ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
January 27,2020

Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council; Commissioner of Peace and Security;
Your Excellencies Permanent Representatives; Excellencies;

Ladies and Gentlemen. Your Excellency,

  1. Let me start by wishing this Council a happy New Year.

  2. It is my honour, as the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), to address this Council today.

  3. My briefing to this Council today builds on the one I delivered on the 14th of November 2019 and will focus on the status of implementation of the Pre-Transitional tasks of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, highlighting challenges, my observations, and then I will conclude with recommendations.

  4. Your Excellency, you will recall that during my last briefing to this Council, I stated that while some progress had been made in the implementation of the pre-transitional tasks of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, a lot of work still remained to be done in order to achieve its full implementation. Indeed, that had been my message when I addressed this Council in October 2019, and unfortunately, this is

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still my message today despite mobilization of troops to cantonment sites and training centres.

Your Excellency,

  1. There are two critical pending tasks whose implementation is necessary for the formation of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) on a solid foundation. They are the unification of forces and the resolution of the outstanding issue of the number of states and their boundaries. I would like to take this opportunity to update you on these two issues.

  2. Firstly, the unification of forces. I am encouraged that thousands of troops have reported to designated training centres, having been transported from cantonment sites. The joint training necessary to harmonise the combatants with the other organized troops as per the curriculum agreed on, is yet to begin. There are however preliminary training activities ongoing in some training centres while awaiting screening of all the forces, to enable the formal joint training of unified forces.

  3. Secondly, the issue of the number of states and their boundaries remains outstanding despite several efforts to resolve it. As per the directive of the IGAD Council of Ministers, the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan convened two rounds of meetings in December 2019 and January this year. H.E. David Mabuza, the Deputy PresidenT of the Republic of South Africa, and the Regional Special Envoys facilitated these meetings. The second meeting adjourned on the 16thof January this year with a proposal to the Parties to consider the establishment of an Arbitration Committee to settle the matter. All the Parties were given a week to deliberate on the proposal.

Your Excellency,

  1. There are some other concerns worthy of mention. Firstly, although it is encouraging to note that the Permanent Ceasefire continues to hold, there have been violations of this Ceasefire in the area of Maiwut, in the Upper Nile area of South Sudan, caused by defection and change of loyalty by a commander of the SPLM/A-IO forces. The acceptance of this defection by the Government caused troops loyal to the defecting commander to clash with SPLM/A-IO forces loyal to Dr. Riek Machar. These clashes resulted in the loss of lives and displacement of civilian population, hence a violation of the Permanent Ceasefire. I understand that the SSPDF and SPLM/A-IO leadership have taken steps to address the situation in Maiwut.

  2. The second area of concern is the slow pace of implementation of the pre-transitional tasks due to delayed funding and the lack of effective coordination between the Agreement implementing Mechanisms.

  3. Funds were not availed to the implementing mechanisms until the 17th of December 2019, 35 days into the 100 days extension.

 

Furthermore, despite being jointly facilitated with an implementation workshop by the IGAD, AU and RJMEC, the implementing Agreement Mechanisms have not performed as expected.

Your Excellency,

11. In closing, and in view of the above, I would like to offer the following recommendations:

  1. a)  that the Council appeals to the Government of the Republic of South Sudan to continue providing the funds necessary for the implementation of the outstanding Pre-Transitional tasks;

  2. b)  that the Council urges the leaders of the Parties to the Agreement to ensure that implementation of the outstanding Pre-Transitional tasks is expedited to enable the RTGoNU to be formed in a timely manner;

  3. c)  that the Council appeals to the Government and the Parties to the Agreement to compromise in order to resolve the outstanding issue of the number of states and their boundaries to enable the formation of the RTGoNU on a solid foundation;

  4. d)  that the Council further appeals to the international community, Partners and Friends of South Sudan to continue supporting the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement; and

  5. e)  lastly, the Council remains seized with the matter.

    I thank you.

STATEMENT BY H.E. AMB. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC TO THE 13th RJMEC MONTHLY MEETING THURSDAY, 23rd JANUARY 2020 JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN
January 23,2020

HonourableMinisters, 

Excellencies, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

Good morning.

1.   Let me start by wishing all of you a Happy New Year, and I am sure you will join me in hoping that this will be the year that will herald lasting peace for the people of South Sudan. Before proceeding, I would like to make a few points. Firstly, I would like to inform you that the latest RJMEC Quarterly Report for the fourth quarter of 2019, is now ready, and a copy will be provided to you today. Next, I would like to welcome the new CTSAMVM Chairperson, Major General Teshome Gemechu Aderie, and in the same vein, I would like to appreciate the contribution of his predecessor, Major General Desta, as well as congratulate him on his recent promotion to Lt. General. I wish him all the best in his future endeavours. On a sad note, I wish on the behalf of the RJMEC members, to offer our condolences to the family and friends of the Honourable Steward Sorobo Budia, a signatory to the Agreement for the United Democratic Party, who passed on recently. 

2.   As all of us are aware, we have passed the 50 days mark of the 100 days extension, and in fact, today we are only 30 days away from the expiry of the 100 days extension. As you may recall in the last RJMEC updated status of implementation of agreed Pre-Transitional tasks, we highlighted the ten critical Pre-Transitional tasks that were outstanding, in addition to the issue of the number of states and their boundaries. I am concerned that with only 30 days left, these same Pre-Transitional tasks are still outstanding.

3.   In my statement today, I will highlight the status of implementation of the critical Pre-Transitional tasks since our last monthly meeting, highlight some recurring issues, and I will then conclude with my recommendations on the way forward.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

4.    As has been clear throughout the statements I have made to this and other meetings, there are two critical pending tasks necessary for the formation of the R-TGoNU on a solid foundation. They are the unification of forces, and the issue of the number of states and their boundaries. 

5.   Firstly, the unification of forces. There have been thousands of troops reporting to training centres, having been transported from cantonment sites. The JTSC will provide a clearer picture in its report shortly.  However, I am concerned that the screening of forces has not started yet, even though the screening teams are reported to be ready to begin. Of course, no training can take place before screening, and the more it is delayed, the more the time that will be lost in beginning the training of the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF). I therefore urge the Joint Defence Board (JDB) to ensure that the screening, selection and training of forces starts immediately in consultation with the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission.  

6.   With regard to observation of the Permanent Ceasefire, I would like to express my concern regarding the developments in Maiwut. The reported loss of life and displacement of the civilian population are unacceptable. I understand that the SSPDF and SPLM/A-IO have taken steps to address the situation. CTSAMVM will give further details in its report. In addition, I call on the concerned parties to cease all hostilities, and to fully observe the Permanent Ceasefire. I also urge the authorities to take steps to ensure the protection of the civilian population.

7.   Furthermore, I remain concerned by the continued occupation of civilian centres contrary to Article 2.2.3.1 of the R-ARCSS. This is an issue that should be straightforward to resolve, but it continues to come up. CTSAMVM’s recent report shows that in the last month, buildings in two schools have been occupied by the SSPDF. This makes a total of 25 occupied buildings, of which 24 are by the SSPDF and 1 by SPLM/A-IO. I would like to ask the JDB to explain why this continues to be an issue. 

8.   Secondly, the issue of the number of states and their boundaries remains outstanding despite several efforts to resolve it. Following the directive of the IGAD Council of Ministers at its 69thExtra-Ordinary session[1], the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan convened two rounds of meetings facilitated by H.E. David Mabuza, the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, and the Regional Special Envoys. The meetings adjourned last week with a proposal for the establishment of an Arbitration Committee to settle the matter, and the Parties were given a week to deliberate on the proposal. I wish to commend H.E. David Mabuza and the Special Envoys for their efforts thus far, and I encourage them to continue engaging the Parties. As RJMEC Chair, I appeal to the leadership of the Parties to compromise and take all necessary steps to arrive at a consensual and pragmatic political solution.   

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen 

9.   Overall, my observation is that the optimism that the Security Mechanisms expressed at the last monthly meeting has not been matched by their performance in implementation since then. All of them have fallen behind the timelines of their action plans. Despite the commitment by the Security Mechanisms to coordinate their activities more closely, this still has not happened. I urge the JDB to remedy the situation as soon as possible. I also expect that the implementation will be fast-tracked in the remaining 30 days. It is also essential that additional funds be provided, and that the requirements of accountability and transparency are observed. 

10.  I am encouraged by reports of continuing in-kind support being extended by some partners. In this regard, I would like to thank the governments of Japan and China for their most recent donations. That said, I remain concerned with the very slow distribution of these donations from Juba to the designated cantonment sites and training centres. I urge the NPTC to ensure the immediate distribution of all the in-kind donations to the designated sites, and to clear up any confusion about roles and responsibilities in this regard. I once again appeal for more support for the implementation of the Agreement.  

11.  On the engagement with the hold-out groups in the peace process, I was pleased to learn of the Sant’Egidio-facilitated meeting in Rome and the resulting declaration on the cessation of hostilities and commitment to dialogue. I welcome this development, and appeal to IGAD and the Parties to embrace this process. 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen 

12.   In view of the above, my recommendations are as follows.

a)   The mid-term review of the 100 days extension to be immediately conducted by the Guarantors to assess the status of implementation of the security-related critical Pre-Transitional tasks, to determine the way forward;

b)  The Security Mechanisms to enhance their cooperation and take steps to expedite and concurrently implement the pending tasks of screening, selection and training of the NUF;

c)   The leadership of the Parties to demonstrate the spirit of compromise and press for a timely political resolution of the issue of the number of states and their boundaries;  

d)  More funding be availed to the Security Mechanisms to enable progress of the unification of forces, while observing the requirements of accountability and transparency;

e)   In-kind support stored in Juba to be transported to the cantonment sites and training centres according to the needs, and to that end, I recommend that the JDB be tasked with delivering these resources; and

f)    All occupied civilian buildings to be vacated without exception.

13.  Finally, I had written to the Mechanisms directing them to focus their reports specifically on the progress of the implementation of the activities planned to be executed during the 100 days extension, challenges faced, and the way forward in addressing the remaining tasks. I therefore expect this meeting to carefully consider the reports of the Mechanisms, review the progress made, and provide guidance on the way forward.

14.  I wish you fruitful deliberations.

Thank you.



STATEMENT BY H.E. AMB. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC TO THE 12th RJMEC MONTHLY MEETING, TUESDAY, 17TH DECEMBER 2019 JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN
December 17,2019

STATEMENT BY H.E. AMB. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE,

INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC,

TO THE 12th RJMEC MONTHLY MEETING.

 

TUESDAY, 17THDECEMBER 2019

JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN

 HonourableMinisters, 

Excellencies, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

Good morning.

1.   I welcome all of you to the 12th RJMEC meeting. As you are all aware, there has been a change in the Chairmanship of IGAD, and I would like to take this early opportunity to congratulate the Republic of Sudan on the assumption of the Chairmanship. I wish the people and the government every success in the discharge of this responsibility. I would also like to join the IGAD Heads of State and Government in appreciating and thanking the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia for the pivotal role it played in steering and spearheading the work of IGAD as the Chair for over a decade. 

2.   I also congratulate H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu on his appointment as the new Executive Secretary of IGAD, and sincerely thank H.E. Ambassador Mahboub Maalim, the former Executive Secretary of IGAD, for his services to the region.

3.   Now to the business at hand. It is only three weeks ago since we last met, but such is the importance of this current period in the implementation of the R-ARCSS that it is imperative for us to meet and take stock sooner rather than later. This is also the last time we will meet before the mid-term review, a point that represents the half-way mark of the 100 days extension period that began on 12thNovember 2019. This is going to be our last meeting of the year 2019. It is deeply regrettable that implementation of the activities of the Pre-Transitional period have failed to live up to expectation.

4.   My statement will highlight the situation regarding implementation since our last monthly meeting. I will then conclude with my recommendations on the way forward.  

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, 

5.   As I made it clear in my previous public statements, including to this meeting, to the IGAD Council of Ministers and to the African Union Peace and Security Council, that there are two key pending issues critical to the successful implementation of the Pre-Transitional activities and the establishment of the RTGoNU on a solid foundation. These are the unification of necessary forces and the resolution of the number of States and their boundaries. I continue to say that their timely implementation requires political will, leadership and predictable release of the necessary funding.

6.   Firstly, on funding; I am informed that the mechanisms received some funds on Friday 13thDecember, and this is welcome. I request the NPTC to explain the criteria of the allocations to the mechanisms. I note, however, that as a consequence of this late release of funds, a lot of time has already been lost and there is no significant progress as yet in the implementation of the critical pending Pre-Transitional tasks that I can mention today. This, of course, is very disappointing. However, as RJMEC Chair, I am still confident that the mechanisms will make significant progress within the remaining 65 days. 

7.   I am aware that the NPTC has allocated some funds to support the representatives of the Agreement Parties within the RJMEC, which is welcome. It is my expectation that the government will continue to release funds in a timely manner to the NPTC throughout the extension period. Furthermore, I also expect that the issues of accountability and transparency will be addressed.

8.   Secondly, the unification of forces. As a result of the delay in the disbursement of funds, I must state that there has not been any meaningful progress to report on. To be specific, no screening, no selection and no training has taken place. In my last statement, I recommended that food and supplies, including the in-kind support stored in Juba, be sent to cantonment sites, and I would like the JMCC to report on whether this has been done. 

9.   Following on from last month’s security workshop, some planning has been taking place, and I understand that the refined plans of action that each mechanism developed were submitted to the NPTC. These were to be reviewed and consolidated, and I would request the NPTC to present the integrated plan. 

10.  The weekly coordination meetings of the mechanisms and the NPTC, that were agreed on at the security workshop have not been taking place, and I would like to know why? Despite my repeated appeal, 25 civilian centres continue to be occupied by the forces, 24 by the SSPDF, and 1 by the SPLM/A-IO. I expect CTSAMVM to give further details in its report. 

11.  Thirdly, the issue of the number of states and their boundaries. I was pleased that the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan convened a meeting of the Parties to resolve the issue of the number of states and their boundaries. This meeting was held over a three-day period in Juba from 2nd – 4th December 2019. I wish to commend H.E. David Mabuza, the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, for demonstrating leadership as he chaired the meeting. I also appreciate the input of H.E. Stephen Kolonzo Musyoka of Kenya. The meeting narrowed the gaps between the positions of the Parties, and paved the way for possible compromise. I look forward to its reconvening in the near future. I urge the leadership of the Parties to expedite their deliberations on this matter and reach a compromise.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

12.  As you may recall, the Tripartite summit in Entebbe, Uganda, agreed on a mechanism to help expedite the implementation of the security arrangements of the Pre-Transitional period. This mechanism is now referred to as the Security Supervision Mechanism (SSM). Its Terms of Reference are ready, and have been submitted for approval by the Guarantors. I would kindly ask the IGAD Special Envoy’s Representative to this meeting to update us on the mechanism’s progress to date, including the modalities of how it will function and its plans for conducting the mid-term review.   

13.   I welcome the visit of Dr Riek Machar to Juba which began last week, and the meetings he held with H.E. Salva Kiir, President of the Republic of South Sudan, and other stakeholders. Dr Machar’s presence in Juba contributes in progressing the implementation of the Agreement, especially in resolving outstanding issues and on building further confidence amongst the Parties. I call upon the key principals to the Agreement to continue their engagement to ensure that progress is made.

14.  On the humanitarian situation, as you are aware there has been flooding in many parts of the country, leading to the loss of life and property.  I therefore want to offer my sympathies to those affected by the flooding, and I appeal for urgent humanitarian assistance.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, 

15.  We now have only 65 days left of the 100 days extension. Time has been lost for various reasons, including delay in funding. Much work remains to be done. In view of this, my recommendations are as follows:  

 

a)   Despite having received the funds as late as last Friday, 13thDecember, I expect the mechanisms to immediately embark on their action plans and fast-track implementation;

b)  I urge the mechanisms to coordinate effectively amongst themselves, and to prioritise the screening and selection of forces for training, and to ensure the delivery of food and supplies to cantonment sites and training centres;

c)   The Security Supervision Mechanism to commence its work and closely coordinate with the NPTC, the Office of the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan, RJMEC and CTSAMVM;

d)  All security mechanisms, including the DDR Commission, should adhere to their refined action plans, and the NPTC should coordinate the mechanisms for effective implementation;

e)   The mechanisms should implement their activities giving due consideration to accountability and transparency;

f)    The IGAD Special Envoy to pursue the issue of the number of States and boundaries as a priority, and to remain seized of all the other outstanding issues, including urgently engaging the hold-out groups; and 

g)   I urge the Parties to compromise in resolving the number of States and their boundaries, and to cooperate fully in the unification of forces, so that the RTGoNU is established on a solid foundation and in a timely manner. 

16.   In closing, I would like to underline that with the funds now availed to the mechanisms, they must immediately embark on their priority tasks and accomplish as much as possible within the remaining 65 days.

17.   I wish you fruitful deliberations on the way forward. 

Thank you. 

 

STATEMENT BY H.E. AMB. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC TO THE 11th RJMEC MONTHLY MEETING WEDNESDAY, 27TH NOVEMBER 2019 JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN.
November 27,2019
 
 
Honourable Ministers, Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

  1. I welcome all of you to the 11th RJMEC meeting. I would like to convey my apologies for the cancellation of the previously scheduled meetings, which were set for the 5th and 7th of November. At that time, events were moving fast with parallel initiatives taking place and were all demanding our attention.

  2. As you may recall, on the 7th of November, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda convened a Tripartite meeting in Entebbe, Uganda, which was attended by H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan, H.E. Abdel Fatah al Burhan, President of the Transitional Sovereign Council of the Republic of Sudan, and Dr Riek Machar Teny, the Chairperson of SPLM/A-IO. Also in attendance was H.E. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, Kenya’s Envoy to South Sudan.

  3. I am sure you are aware that the Tripartite meeting, among other things, agreed on an extension of the Pre-Transitional Period by 100 days to allow for the completion of the critical pending tasks, and agreed to establish a mechanism from the Guarantors and the Parties to supervise the implementation of the critical tasks.

  1. On the 9th and 10th of November, two key meetings took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, that is the IGAD Ministerial Consultation with the Parties to the Revitalized Peace Agreement, and the IGAD Council of Ministers’ meeting respectively. Both meetings endorsed the resolution reached in Entebbe.

  2. In my statements at these meetings, and also to the African Union Peace and Security Council on the 14th of November, I emphasized the importance of the full implementation of the Pre-Transitional tasks to lay a firm foundation for the establishment of the RTGoNU, to avoid the repeat of past mistakes, and to demonstrate the commitment of the Parties to the implementation of the Agreement in letter and spirit.

  3. As you are all aware, there are critical tasks still outstanding, such as the enactment of the requisite laws, unification of necessary forces, resolution of key issues like the number and boundaries of States and the composition and restructuring of the Council of States. I therefore appealed that our focus should be placed on ensuring the completion of these critical pending tasks.

  4. I further underlined the importance of consolidating the gains that have already been made in the peace process. We must all take steps to ensure that the RTGoNU, once formed, is inclusive, effective, and will focus solely on full implementation of the Transitional Tasks of the Agreement, rather than be distracted by unaccomplished tasks of the Pre-Transitional period. Additionally, I strongly emphasized the lack of funding, which is a fundamental impediment to the implementation process.

  1. That said, I was pleased to note that the Parties’ agreement on endorsing the 100 days extension was reached without objection and that the spirit of compromise was demonstrated by the Parties in Addis Ababa, and by the leaders at the Tripartite meeting in Entebbe. As we move forward, I urge that all political leaders in South Sudan follow this exemplary show of flexibility and compromise, both of which are critical to the successful implementation of the Peace Agreement.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

9. As you may recall the IGAD Council of Ministers instructed “the IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan in collaboration with R-JMEC, CTSAMVM and the African Union Commission to urgently organize a workshop for security mechanisms in Juba, to agree on a roadmap with clear timeline for the implementation of Transitional Security Arrangements within the one hundred (100) days extension.”

10. I am pleased to report that this workshop was convened on the 18th and 19th of November in Juba. The main outcome was that each mechanism finalized its action plan and a budget for the 100 days extension. The mechanisms are now fully seized of their priorities and will present to you shortly.

11. Additionally, the workshop agreed on a weekly coordination meeting of the heads of the mechanisms, chaired by the NPTC, to assess implementation progress. It was also agreed that the JDB will convene weekly meetings with the mechanisms. These meetings will be attended by representatives of the RJMEC Secretariat and CTSAMVM.

12. The mechanisms have now streamlined and harmonized their workplans and should be able to effectively coordinate their activities. Going forward, I expect that their reports to the RJMEC will strictly highlight the progress being made in line with their action plans, and that any challenges will be addressed in a timely manner.

13. With these arrangements in place and with disbursement of funds to the mechanisms, I expect to see renewed impetus in the delivery of the critical pending Pre-Transitional tasks.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

14. Let me remind this meeting of the critical pending tasks, which are - Chapter 1: the resolution of the number of States and boundaries, and the composition and restructuring of the Council of States; enactment of the Constitutional Amendment Bill; enactment of the amended security and governance laws; agreement on the allocation of ministerial and deputy ministerial portfolios; and nomination ofparties’ representatives to the Transitional National LegislativeAssembly.

15. In Chapter 2, the outstanding issues relate to demilitarization of all civilian centres; cantonment of all forces; registration, screening, selection, training and redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces.

16. I am pleased to note that the IGAD Special Envoy has been directed to facilitate a meeting of the Parties to resolve the issue of the number of states and their boundaries, and any other outstanding issues pertaining to the establishment of the R-TGoNU. I am also pleased to say that the IGAD Special Envoy is seized of this matter and has made plans to hold these meetings. I appeal to the Parties to compromise and resolve all the outstanding issues.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

17. I welcome reports of the deposit of an additional USD 40 million to the NPTC account and I want to thank His Excellency Salva Kiir Mayardit and his government for honouring the commitment to make available the remaining balance of the US $100 million pledged in May. I hope that these funds will be availed immediately to the mechanisms to enable them to expedite implementation of their action plans. I must also emphasize that the principles of accountability and transparency in the management of the availed funds is of paramount importance.

18. As a priority, I urge that some funds be used to immediately purchase and deliver food and supplies to cantonment sites to address the unfortunate situation of troops without basic supplies leaving the sites. Likewise, any in-kind donations that are held up in Juba should be delivered to their intended cantonment sites without any further delay.

19. Lastly, with the 100 days already ticking, I urge the region and the international community to present a unified voice in support of the full and timely implementation of the Peace Agreement as we move forward.

20. Now as much as ever, regional and international support is needed, and I continue to urge that financial and in-kind support be considered and extended without delay. In this regard, I would like to thank and appreciate all those who have already provided support to the implementation of the Agreement.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

21. In view of the above, my recommendations are as follows:

  1. a)  The NPTC to immediately release the requisite funds to the implementing mechanisms and set up a follow up mechanism to ensure accountability and transparency;

  2. b)  The Tri-partite mechanism agreed on in Entebbe should immediately commence its work;

  3. c)  The IGAD Special Envoy should urgently convene meetings of the Parties to resolve all the outstanding issues;

  4. d)  All security mechanisms should adhere to their action plans;

  5. e)  Tasks that do not cost money should be completed without further

    delay;

  6. f)  Encourageregularface-to-facemeetingsofthetopleadershipofthe

    Parties to the Agreement during the 100 days extended period;

  7. g)  Appeal to the IGAD Heads of States and Government and the

    Council of Ministers to remain closely engaged;

  8. h)  The IGAD Special Envoy to expedite his engagement with the hold

    out groups; and

  9. i) TheConstitutionalAmendmentBillandotherrelevantlawstobe enacted without any further delay.

22. In closing, I expect the meeting today to consider the action plans developed by the different mechanisms for the 100 days, and provide guidance on steps that should be taken to ensure that all the outstanding critical tasks are completed in a timely manner.

23. Finally, I look forward to attending the Ordinary Summit of the IGAD Heads of State and Government scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa this Friday 29th November 2019.

24. I wish you fruitful deliberations.

Thank you.

 

CLOSING REMARKS BY H.E. AMB. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE RJMEC INTERIM CHAIRPERSON IGAD / RJMEC / CTSAMVM / AU COMMISSION JOINT SECURITY MECHANISMS WORKSHOP Tuesday, 19 November 2019 Juba, South Sudan
November 19,2019

 

 

Honourable Ministers,

Excellencies;

Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good afternoon.

1.  It is my pleasure to offer some closing remarks to this workshop. When the workshop began yesterday, we were under no illusions about its importance, and what it was supposed to achieve. I am pleased to say that we are satisfied that the objectives of the workshop have broadly been met, and that the Mechanisms have worked well to contribute to the workshop’s outcomes.

2.  Now that each mechanism has its own updated plan of action setting out priorities, critical tasks, key milestonesandcost estimatesfor the duration of the extension, I cannot stress enough the importance of adhering to them. All of us know that time is against us, and this should keep us focused on achieving the tasks that have unfortunately held up the formation of the RTGoNU, on a solid foundation. Similarly, I would like to remind all of you of the need to fine tune your budgets and keep them realistic, and to implement activities according to principles of transparency and accountability as I urged yesterday in my opening address to the workshop. I also urge the Mechanisms at the same time to focus on the implementation of tasks that do not cost money.

3.  I once again reiterate the importance of funding for the tasks identified by the Mechanisms. I continue to urge the Government to release the necessary funding so that the plans deliberated at this workshop can be put into action without any delay. Again I said yesterday, one day without funding is one day wasted, and surely the release of funds is a strong indicator of political will. 

4.  That said, I must welcome the outcomes of this workshop. The Coordination Mechanism you have developed sounds equal to the task. A weekly meeting of the Mechanisms, involving the senior leadership together with the NPTC, is very important. Also of importance is the weekly working coordination meetings planned jointly with the JDB. I also welcome the invitation that a member of RJMEC Secretariat and CTSAMVM attend these meetings. By the same token, I urge that the JDB plays a full role at its highest levels throughout the extension period. However, I must point out that coordination mechanisms such as these, are only as good as the effort you put into them to function and achieve what they are supposed to.  

5.  In closing, I urge all of you not to relent in your pursuit of achieving what is needed to form the RTGoNU on a solid foundation. The clock is ticking, and your work and commitment to the people of South Sudan is clear and much needed. I wish you luck as you proceed.  

6.  Finally, let me express my thanks and appreciation to the IGAD Special Envoy, the Co-Convenors of this workshop, the facilitators, the Mechanisms, and all who in one way or another participated. 

Thank you. 

 
OPENING REMARKS BY H.E. AMB. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE RJMEC INTERIM CHAIRPERSON IGAD / RJMEC / CTSAMVM / AU COMMISSION JOINT SECURITY MECHANISMS WORKSHOP Monday, 18 November 2019 Juba, South Sudan
November 18,2019

Honourable Ministers,

Excellencies;

Ladies and Gentlemen.

 

Good morning. 

1. It is my pleasure to be with you this morning at this very important workshop. As all of you now know that the Pre-Transitional period has been extended by 100 days, and the clock began ticking last week. The Resolutions of the Ministerial Consultation of the Agreement Parties on 9th November and the 69th Extraordinary Session of IGAD Council of Ministers on 10th November designated this workshop as an essential step towards rectifying repeated failures in the implementation of the critical Pre-Transitional tasks. I am pleased to note that this workshop has been organized quickly, and I thank all those involved in its preparation.

2. Put simply, we have reached this point because not enough has been done to implement the pending Pre-Transitional tasks in order to establish the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) on a solid foundation. While this is an unfortunate situation, we all understand that without funds, not much can be implemented. The timely and predictable flow of funds is paramount. RJMEC has consistently called for the release of funds and continue to urge the ITGoNU to immediately release the requisite funding, in the understanding that one day without funding is a day lost.

3. Also on the theme of funding, I would like to draw attention to Agreement Article 1.4.8. This article calls for a fund for the Pre-Transitional activities to be established which is to be managed transparently by the NPTC, and which reports monthly to the President of the Republic of South Sudan and to the Parties. Past experience of funding difficulties and inadequacy shows why this is a good idea, and I urge that the fund be established to manage funds transparently for the duration of the extension. This will bring credibility to the process and will encourage international partners, friends and donors to contribute to the fund. I also appeal to the NPTC to prioritise available funds to the operations of the mechanisms. 

4. This workshop is a good opportunity for the mechanisms, in the spirit of openness and transparency, to indicate how they have used the money that they have already received. Additionally, doing so will enable us to understand how much money the NPTC has disbursed, so that likewise it can be held to account. The NPTC should open exclusive accounts for each mechanism and deposit amount commensurate to operations of the specific Pre-Transitional tasks to be implemented.

 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

5. This workshop is primarily a working session designed for each mechanism to set out priorities, critical tasks, milestones and rolling cost estimates for the duration of the extension. Each of the mechanisms must use these two days to complete their workplan and get themselves into a state of readiness to implement the critical pending Pre-Transitional tasks.  This involves clear strategic thinking, prioritization of activities, plans for concurrent implementation, and coordination with the other mechanisms. I wish to also welcome the participation of the DDR Commission, and I hope that its crucial role in the implementation of the cantonment and DDR process will be fully appreciated by all and funded accordingly.

6. In view of the above my recommendations for the NPTC and the Security Mechanisms during the 100 days extension are as follows:

 

  1. a) Each mechanism should adhere strictly to the activities and timeframe as set out in the respective workplans;
  2. b) Each mechanism should have the highest regard for cost effectiveness and transparency;
  3. c) The NPTC should establish dedicated budget lines for each mechanism, and set up an account for each, which would promote accountability and transparency according to the letter and spirit of Article 1.4.8;
  4. d) Each mechanism should account for the funds it has received to date; 
  5. e) Each mechanism should establish and commit to an effective and realistic system of coordination between all the various mechanisms to avoid duplication of effort and ensure effective and efficient utilisation of resources; and  
  6. f) Each mechanism should develop a standardised and regular reporting system so that progress can be clearly evaluated against benchmarks.

 

7. In closing, I would like to say that the workplans that you will set out over the next two days can work if the political will of the Parties is brought to bear, and it is my hope that renewed impetus in implementation over the 100 days extension will lead to increased trust and confidence. Finally, let me remind all of us that Unification of all Forces is a requirement of the Agreement (Article 2.2.1) and must not only be acceptable to all the Agreement Parties but the Parties must put all their efforts to see to its success. 

8. I wish you a fruitful two days’ workshop.

 

I thank you.

 

 

STATEMENT BY H.E. AMB. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC TO THE 10th RJMEC MONTHLY MEETING, THURSDAY, 17 OCTOBER 2019 JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN
October 18,2019

HonourableMinisters, 

Excellencies, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

1.  I welcome all of you to the 10thRJMEC meeting.  This meeting is important because the extended Pre-Transitional Period is due to end in less than four weeks. Ideally, at this stage we should all be excited with the real prospect of the R-TGoNU being formed, but unfortunately, we still have a lot of work to do in the days ahead to cross this bridge. I will revert to this matter later on in my statement.

2.  My statement today will highlight only the most recent progress made in the implementation of the activities of the Pre-Transitional period, but will particularly focus on the critical outstanding tasks necessary for the timely and smooth formation of the RTGoNU, and I will conclude with some recommendations on the way forward.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

3.   Since our last meeting held in September, some progress has been made in the cantonment of forces. Out of the 25 designated cantonment sites for the opposition and 10 barracks for government forces, 24 cantonment sites and 6 barracks are operational. The total number of troops registered continuesto increase, and I expect to hear the latest details from the Security Mechanisms. I commend the Security Mechanisms for the significant progress made in registration. I note, however, that registration is just a first step. What follows is screening, selection, training and deployment of the Necessary Unified Forces. I therefore urge the remaining process to be expedited and to be undertaken concurrently to catch up with lost time.

4.   As you will recall, the IGAD Council of Ministers had required that at least half of the 83,000 Necessary Unified Forces “be cantoned and barracked, trained and deployed before the end of September 2019”. Unfortunately, this deadline was not met. I am, however, encouraged to hear that about 1,500 trainers are ready to begin their work. I appeal to the Security Mechanisms to expedite the selection of the forces for immediate training. In addition, I urge the DDR Commission to begin their work in the cantonment sites and barracks. I await an update from the JTSC on the plan for commencement of the training of forces. 

5.   On Tuesday 15 October, I briefed the AU Peace and Security Council and also the Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers on the status of the pending Pre-Transitional tasks. In my message to both the Council and the Chairperson, I observed that it is unlikely that the 83,000 Necessary Unified Forces will be trained and deployed by the deadline of 12thNovember 2019.   

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,  

6.  In addition to the training and deployment of the Necessary Unified Forces, there are a number of other critical tasks vital to the formation of the RTGoNU. These include the following: 

a.     resolution of the number and boundaries of the States;

b.     enactment of the Constitutional Amendment Bill and the other Bills;

c.      agreement on allocation of ministerial portfolios; 

d.     submission by the Parties of their nominees for the TNLA to the NCAC; and 

e.     complete demilitarization of civilian centres.

7.  These tasks can be expedited and resolved by the leadership of the Parties before the November 12thdeadline. In my consultations with the Parties yesterday, they tentatively agreed to hold a meeting this Saturday to address some of the outstanding issues.    

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

8.  Overall, the RJMEC Secretariat’s assessment is that of the 63 identified Pre-Transitional tasks, 31 tasks have been completed, 22 are ongoing, and 10 are still pending. The updated assessment matrix has been shared with all of you. 

9.  Indeed, the full implementation of the Pre-Transitional tasks was intended to lay a firm foundation for the effective implementation of the Agreement and for the Parties to demonstrate their commitment to implement the Agreement in letter and spirit. The tasks were also informed by the bitter experiences of forming a government without the legal and security foundation during the 2015 Peace Agreement. 

10.  As I told the AU PSC and Chairperson IGAD Council of Ministers on Tuesday, there is no doubt that the Revitalized Peace Agreement has yielded dividends in the Republic of South Sudan. Since the signing of the Agreement, the Permanent Ceasefire has held and there is an overall improvement in the security and humanitarian situation across the country. According to UNMISS, close to 600,000 people have returned to their homes. These are gains that must be consolidated by ensuring that there is a firm foundation upon which the RTGoNU is established.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

11.       In view of the above, I would like to make the following recommendations:

a.        the Incumbent TGoNU should, as a matter of urgency, availmore andadequate resources to the NPTCtofacilitate ongoing cantonment, concurrent training and deployment of forces;

b.        the Parties should meet and resolve the outstanding issue of the number and boundaries of States without further delay;

c.         the leadership of the Parties should meet very soon and agree on what options are available come the 12thNovember deadline; 

d.        the regional and international partners and friends of South Sudan should enhance their financial, political and in-kind support to the full implementation of the R-ARCSS.

12.       In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that the gains of the last 13 months must be consolidated, and I call upon the RJMEC members to pronounce themselves and provide guidance on the best way forward.   

13.       I wishyou fruitful deliberations.

I thank you.

STATEMENT BY H.E. AMB. LT. GEN. AUGOSTINO S.K. NJOROGE INTERIM CHAIRPERSON, RJMEC TO THE 9TH RJMEC MONTHLY MEETING, THURSDAY, 12 SEPTEMBER, 2019, JUBA SOUTH SUDAN.n
September 13,2019

Honourable Ministers,

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning.

  1. I welcome all of you to the 9th RJMEC meeting. This meeting marks exactly one year since the signing of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, which is a laudable achievement, not least because of the silencing of the guns across the country, but this also presented a real opportunity to end the conflict in South Sudan permanently. In the past 12 months, we have witnessed constructive engagement of the Parties in implementing the Peace Agreement, which has rekindled hope of attaining sustainable peace in the country.

  2. However, today we have only two months to the end of the extended Pre-Transitional Period, and much remains to be done. We must therefore redouble our efforts to accomplish all the outstanding Pre- Transitional tasks within this remaining short time.

  3. In my statement this morning, I will provide an update on the progress of implementation of the Pre-Transitional tasks since we last met, including a review of the status of the resolutions of the last meeting, the recurring challenges, and then I will conclude with some recommendations.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

  1. To begin with, an update on the progress of implementation of the Pre-Transitional tasks. You will recall that the last time we met, I expressed concern at the slow pace of implementation. This slow progress was partly the reason why IGAD invited the Parties to the Agreement to Addis Ababa for urgent consultations on 21st August 2019. However, I am pleased to report that the pace has since picked up.

  2. Regarding the transitional security arrangements, I am happy to report that at long last, some cantonment sites have become operational, and I want to commend the Parties, the Joint Defence Board (JDB), the Joint Military Ceasefire Commission (JMCC), and the Joint Transitional Security Committee (JTSC) for this milestone. I am aware that the JDB continues to put in place the necessary framework for cantonment of all forces, and the JMCC continues to prepare the remaining cantonment sites. The JTSC is also making progress in preparing the designated 18 training sites. That said, time is running out and much still remains to be done if 50 per cent of the 83,000 Necessary Unified Forces are to be cantoned, selected and in training by 30 September 2019. I urge the JDB to provide leadership in planning and coordination in order to ensure expeditious and concurrent implementation of the cantonment and training of forces.

  3. I am happy to report that the expected in-kind support from the AU Commission arrived in Juba, and I wish to commend AU Commission for fulfilling its pledge of delivering the materials and Ambassador Joram Biswaro for coordinating the delivery. Similarly, I wish to thank the government of the People’s Republic of China for providing 1500 tons of rice, and the government of the Arab Republic of Egypt for providing medical supplies.

  1. As implementation of the Peace Agreement is mainly the responsibility of the Parties to the Agreement, I would like to underline the importance of the timely and predictable disbursement of the $100 million for the cantonment, training, and unification of the NUF to be completed by 11th November.

  2. I once again reiterate my humble appeal to the Regional governments who have pledged support, to expedite delivery. I also urge the Partners and Friends of South Sudan, and the international community, to offer more support to the cantonment process. I am keen to learn of the latest progress on cantonment, and I expect the Chairperson of the JMCC to update today’s meeting shortly.

  3. The National Constitutional Amendment Committee (NCAC) has finalized the drafting of the Fire Brigade Service Bill, 2019 and has scheduled its submission to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. However, I am becoming increasingly concerned with the delay in the ratification and enactment of the amended Constitution, and the other laws already submitted by the NCAC. I urge the I-TGoNU and the TNLA to expedite the process. In the meantime, the NCAC has embarked on the review of the Public Finance Management and economic sector laws, and I look forward to hearing more from the Chairman of NCAC shortly.

 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

  1. Now, for an update on the progress of the resolutions of the last meeting in which the Plenary appealed to the I-TGoNU and the NPTC to expedite the nominations and appointment process of theDDR Commission’s Chairperson and Deputy and to ensure itsimmediate reconstitution. I communicated this matter of the DDRCommission’s reconstitution to the IGAD Council of Ministers, who decided that the matter be completed by the end of August 2019. I understand that the appointments were made by Presidential Decree yesterday. I will await further detail from the NPTC.

  2. You may recall that the Plenary resolved that the JMCC and CTSAMVM should conduct an assessment on protection-related risks to the civilian population at cantonment sites and recommend mitigation measures to be put in place. I expect the JMCC and CTSAMVM to give a report on this.

  3. As you may also recall, the Plenary endorsed my recommendation to the IGAD Council of Ministers that a meeting of the Parties be convened to review progress in the implementation of the critical pending Pre-Transitional tasks. I am pleased to report that this meeting took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 21st August 2019. Its communique has been availed to you today.

  4. The Plenary further resolved that the Parties continue with coordinated dissemination and joint confidence-building measures and encouraged the other stakeholders and partners to equally engage in disseminating the Agreement and messages of the peace to their various constituents. I am pleased to note that there have been at least two occasions in Rajaf and Gudele 2 where the Parties appeared together and addressed grassroots dissemination meetings. These events, staged by the NPTC Dissemination Unit, supported by RJMEC, and UNMISS, are positive steps and should continue. I would like to see all Stakeholders to the Agreement participating in future events.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

  1. The citizens of South Sudan are demanding to know more about the Revitalized Peace Agreement, and the progress of its implementation. Accordingly, the RJMEC Secretariat has in the past few weeks, in partnership with faith-based and civil society leaders, undertaken dissemination in the towns of Wau, Torit, Yambio and Maridi. Our experience demonstrates that citizens have limited knowledge of the R-ARCSS. This justifies the need for more work to be done on dissemination.

  2. I would like to add a word about the National Dialogue. We are all aware of the ongoing political process being undertaken by the National Dialogue. This process is complementary to the Revitalised Peace Agreement as both are key to the peace process in South Sudan. My appeal to the National Dialogue Committee is that their various dialogue platforms also be used for disseminating the revitalized Peace Agreement to the citizens. We are fortunate to have an RJMEC member representing the Eminent Personalities, and who is also a member of the National Dialogue. I wish to request that he be given the opportunity to inform the RJMEC meetings on its progress from time to time.

  1. On the number and boundaries of States, this issue was included in the agenda of the Addis Ababa meeting of the Parties and it was agreed that the Parties would discuss the matter further with a view to finding a common solution, and report to the IGAD Ordinary Summit, due in mid-September 2019.

  2. You may recall that in the last meeting, we called upon the Parties to hold regular face to face meetings of all the political leadership in order to build trust and confidence among themselves and address the challenges facing implementation. In that regard, I would like towelcome this week’s face-to-face meetings of His Excellency Salva Kiir and Dr. Riek Machar, leader of the SPLM/A-IO. Their commitment to resolve the outstanding issues, either personally or by putting in place official mechanisms, is critical for the successful implementation of the R-ARCSS.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

18. The Permanent Ceasefire is holding. However, I am concerned by the recently reported insecurity incidents in the areas of Aweil East, Raja and Yei River. The Chairperson of CTSAMVM will shed more light on these incidents shortly.

19. In terms of the humanitarian situation, the UNHCR reported that there was the spontaneous return of displaced persons and refugees during August. I hope to hear more from UNMISS.

20. Regarding the economy, I am encouraged that the exchange rate continues to remain fairly stable. However, rising food prices continues to be the main contributor to inflation.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

21. I would like to conclude with the following recommendations:

  1. that the DDR Commission immediately operationalizes a plan

    of action, which is vital to the cantonment process;

  2. the I-TGoNU should expedite the disbursement of additional

    funds for cantonment so that its pace can be increased;

  3. the Parties to the Agreement should resolve the issue of the number and boundaries of States of South Sudan as per the resolution of the IGAD Council of Ministers in consultation with the Parties of 21st August 2019;

  4. I reiterate my appeal to the Region, Partners and Friends of South Sudan, and the international community, to support the implementation of the revitalized Peace Agreement, in particular, the cantonment process; and

  5. I also reiterate my appeal to the NPTC to organise joint dissemination of the revitalized Peace Agreement to all South Sudanese, within the country, in displaced persons’ camps, inrefugee camps and in the Diaspora.

  1. Finally, I must remind the Parties once again how short the time is, and that they must work closely together in order to accomplish the remaining critical pending Pre-Transitional tasks within the remaining two months.

  2. I wish you fruitful deliberations. God bless you all.I thank you.

STATEMENT BY INTERIM CHAIRPERSON OF RJMEC DELIVERED AT THE OPENING SESSION OF THE CONSULTATIVE MEETING OF THE SOUTH SUDANESE PARTIES ON THE STATUS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE R-ARCSS
August 26,2019

− Your Excellency, Chairperson of the IGAD Council of Ministers,

− Your Excellency, IGAD Executive Secretary,

− Your Excellencies, Members of the Council,

− Your Excellency, IGAD Special Envoy for South Sudan,

− Honourable Ministers,

− Your Excellencies,

− Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

1. Thank you for the invitation to address this consultative meeting of the Parties to the Revitalized Peace Agreement.

2. The convening of this meeting, against the backdrop of renewed commitment of the Parties in May 2019 to expedite implementation of Pre-Transitional tasks, is crucial for us to assess progress since then. It will also enable us to discuss practical remedial measures for expediting the implementation of pending tasks before the extended Pre-Transitional Period elapses. 

3. My statement, therefore, focuses on an update of the activities of the Pre-Transitional Period of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, with particular emphasis on the transitional security arrangements and the question of the number of States of South Sudan. I will then make general observations on the main impediments to effective implementation of the pending tasks and conclude with specific recommendations.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

4. Since the Pre-Transitional Period was extended by six months in May, some progress has been made in the implementation of some provisions of the transitional security arrangements and attempts to resolve the issues of the number and boundaries of States in the Republic of South Sudan.  

5. On transitional security arrangements, the National Constitutional Amendment Committee has completed the review of five security Bills as well as election related Bills. It also incorporated the six months’ extension of the Pre-Transitional Period into the Constitutional Amendment Bill 2019 and made significant progress in drafting of the Fire Brigade Service Bill 2019. The NCAC has just held experts consultative meeting on Public Finance Management laws. 

6. All the completed Bills have been duly submitted to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs of the Incumbent TGoNU awaiting enactment by the Parliament. The NCAC has also made significant progress in the process of drafting the Fire Brigade Service Bill. 

7. The Permanent Ceasefire has continued to hold, and this has resulted in an overall improvement in the general security situation that we witness today across the country. I commend all the Parties for observing the Permanent Ceasefire. The security situation has contributed to improved access to humanitarian activities, including decisions by some refugees and IDPs to spontaneously return to their areas.  I, however, regret to report sporadic incidents of fighting between NAS forces allied to Gen. Thomas Cirillo and the SSPDF that occurred in Yei area in June 2019.

8. Civilian centres occupied by some armed forces are gradually being vacated. I am encouraged by reports that the SPLA – IO vacated all the civilian centres they had initially occupied. The SSPDF, on the other hand, is yet to vacate all the civilian centres its forces have been occupying. I reiterate my appeal to all the concerned commanders to immediately and completely demilitarize all the civilian centres. I also appeal to all forces to desist from any temptation of reoccupying any civilian property.

9. The National Pre-Transitional Committee has to date made two disbursements to the Joint Defense Board totalling USD 6.5 million to facilitate the implementation of the transitional security arrangements. The NPTC disbursed USD 2 million in April and an additional USD 4.5 million in July 2019. In addition, the NPTC allocated USD 2 million to procure food supplies for cantonment.

10. In terms of suitability of the cantonment sites and barracks, CTSAMVM verified 23 cantonment sites and 10 barracks as suitable for cantonment and barracking of forces. The Joint Transitional Security Committee (JTSC) also identified 18 training centers for the 83, 000 Necessary Unified Forces. 

11. Regrettably however, none of the designated sites is operational, and not a single former combatant has been registered. This has also meant that the training of forces has yet to begin. Logistical constraints remain a huge hurdle to overcome. These challenges notwithstanding, I am encouraged by the report of initial food supplies for cantonment and barracks being delivered by the JDB to some of the cantonment sites. However, these supplies are not enough as they will soon run out unless there is a steady and predictable supply of necessary commodities.

12. I welcome the interest exhibited by the region and AU C5 towards support for operationalization of cantonment, including pledges for in-kind support to make that happen. I understand the list of the required items for cantonment were availed to them. I, therefore, appeal to them to expedite the fulfilment of those pledges.

13. Linked to the success of cantonment is expeditious reconstitution of the DDR Commission, a task which is overdue. The Commission is critical to address the needs of former combatants who shall not qualify for selection or training with the Necessary Unified Forces and who will require a dignified reintegration into civilian life.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen

14. On the question of the number of States of South Sudan, the Technical Boundaries Committee (TBC) and Independent Boundaries Commission (IBC) concluded their work in March and June respectively. On 17 June 2019, the IBC issued “A Report of the Work and Activities of the IBC for the Republic of South Sudan” and submitted its findings to the IGAD Executive Secretariat. The report was subsequently submitted to the Parties to the Agreement last week.

15. Despite the IBC’s concerted efforts, it was unable to conclusively make a determination on the number of States of the Republic of South Sudan, their boundaries, the composition and restructuring of the Council of States, as per the Agreement. Nonetheless, the IBC referred the matter to IGAD for a political solution. 

16. This is now an urgent matter to be concluded by the Parties before the formation of the RTGoNU.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

17. Despite the above progress, there are Pre-Transitional tasks which remain unaccomplished. These include: fulfilment of the funding pledge made by the I-TGoNU in May 2019; operationalization of cantonment; reconstitution of the DDR Commission; persuading the South Sudanese non-signatories to the Agreement to join in its implementation; regular face-to-face meetings of Dr Riek Machar and President Salva Kiir; making a determination of the number and boundaries of States of the Republic of South Sudan; fulfilment of the pledges by the region and AU C5 for in-kind support for cantonment; and, the appointment of a substantive RJMEC Chairperson.

18. In my opinion, the impediments which have affected the implementation of the Pre-Transitional tasks include, limited funding; late disbursement of funds; lack of disbursement of budgeted funds; leaders’ insufficient commitment and prioritization of tasks and delay in fulfilment of pledges for in-kind support.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

19. In view of the critical need to expedite the outstanding Pre-Transitional tasks, I wish to conclude with the following recommendations to the Parties, region and the International Community:

To the Parties:

a. consider reaching a consensus on the outstanding issue of the number of States of South Sudan before the Pre-Transitional Period elapses as the matter has implication on the composition and reconstitution of the Council of States;

b. expedite the process of troop movements to cantonment sites and barracks, selection and immediate training of the Necessary Unified Forces. Accordingly, the Parties should give direction and timelines on operationalization of several cantonment sites across the country and in respective States as a start and within the remaining Pre-Transitional Period;

c. give direction and timelines on commencement of training centers across the country and in the respective regions, including training of officers identified for VIP protection;

d. forces still occupying civilian centres to vacate them immediately and avoid new occupation of civilian property;

e. expedite the reconstitution of the DDR Commission and make it responsive to the needs of those who shall not qualify for selection into the Necessary Unified Forces. Accordingly, the I-TGoNU should expedite the nomination of its members to the DDR Commission;

f. to enable the Regional Protection Force (RPF) to be more responsive to the needs of the Parties. In that regard, the Parties should consider reaching consensus on the role the RPF can render to them in support of the peace process. In addition, the Parties should recommend appropriate steps to be taken by the leadership of IGAD with the AU PSC for the urgent attention of the UN Secretary-General. Such a request should consider a recommendation for the amendment of the mandate of the RPF in order to be more responsive to the needs of all the Parties to the R-ARCSS;

g. the NPTC should organize more joint confidence building measures among the Parties as well as joint dissemination of the R-ARCSS to enhance better understanding, ownership, healing and reconciliation in the country; and

h. the Government to fulfil its pledge of funding of the implementation of the R-ARCSS in a timely and predictable manner.

To IGAD and the region:

a. the time has come for the region to scale up its engagement in South Sudan. This therefore calls for the leadership of the region to show more stewardship in this regard and to enhance its diplomatic engagements with the international community and to persuade them to continue enhancing their support as well as funding of implementation of the R-ARCSS;

b. consider convening an Ordinary Summit of the Council and Heads of State and Government to resolve various pending issues on the South Sudan peace process, including the final determination of the status of Dr. Riek Machar and appointment of a substantive RJMEC Chairperson;

c. follow-though on all the Council’s commitments, including facilitating regular face-to-face meetings of the top leadership of the Parties to assess the progress of implementation of the R-ARCSS;

d. enhance the Council’s engagements with the non-adherents to the R-ARCSS to persuade them to join in its implementation; and

e. consider engaging the Africa Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC), United Nations Secretary-General and the Permanent Members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to consider reviewing the role of the Regional Protection Force (RPF) to enable it to become more responsive to the context and needs of the Parties to the R-ARCSS.

To the international community:

a. consider speaking with one voice on the South Sudan peace process, and continue to work closely with the region, AU and UN on the same; and

b. consider funding the implementation of the R-ARCSS, including supporting the cantonment process and demobilized former combatants’ holistic reintegration programmes.

20. In conclusion, it is my view that it is possible to make credible and substantive progress towards fulfilling the critical Pre-Transitional tasks in the remaining time period, if the necessary resources are immediately released for the cantonment, selection, training and redeployment of the Necessary Unified Forces and the Parties take a political decision on the number of states, and their boundaries.

 

I thank you.

 

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