Peace Monitors warn violence in Upper Nile could derail peace
The Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) Maj. Gen (rtd) Charles Tai Gituai has warned that the ongoing violence in Upper Nile and Jonglei States could derail the implementation of the peace process.
“RJMEC is deeply concerned over the escalating violence in both Upper Nile and Jonglei States with innocent lives being lost, thousands displaced, livelihoods and property destroyed. If not addressed urgently, the wider ramifications of such violence could destabilize the ongoing implementation of the Peace Agreement,” said Gituai in his Wednesday address to the United Nations Security Council.
He emphasized the need for the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) to be given the necessary resources to investigate and evaluate the situation in the two states.
Gituai also appealed to the Revitalized Transitional Government to urgently address the root causes of intercommunal violence and insecurity in the country, especially in Upper Nile and Jonglei States.
He recommended for more engagements with the Revitalised Transitional Government in order for the parties to adhere to the Roadmap timelines, and prioritise their implementation through the availing of predictable, timely and adequate funding for all tasks.
Gituai urged member states to provide political, technical, and logistical support to the Revitalised Transitional Government for the implementation of the priority areas of the Roadmap, including the Disarmament Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) process, the Permanent Constitution-making process, and elections.
He encouraged the Revitalized Transitional Government to ensure civic and political space are guaranteed and protected throughout the country.
Gituai called on member states to consider political, logistical and financial support to the monitoring and oversight institutions, RJMEC and CTSAMVM, to enhance their operational capabilities.
He further appealed to the Revitalised Transitional Government, in collaboration and support of international partners and friends of South Sudan to establish and operationalise the Special Reconstruction Fund to pave the way for the mobilisation of resources for post-conflict recovery and reconstruction.
“I would like to appeal to the Council to remain seized of the peace process in South Sudan, and to consider undertaking regular visits to South Sudan as a show of solidarity. IGAD and the AU have responded very positively to RJMEC’s recent appeals for enhanced engagement with South Sudan,” said Gituai.
He revealed that For the Roadmap to be implemented in letter and spirit within the stipulated timeline, the full support of the Security Council will be of great importance as the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan continues to offer the best opportunity of lasting peace in South Sudan.
