By Matik Kueth
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC), called on the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU) to expedite the completion of the remaining tasks outlined in the peace agreement prior to December 2026 elections.
Speaking at the 39th plenary meeting of the R-JMEC in Juba on Thursday, Maj. Charles Tai Gitui, outgoing chairperson of the R-JMEC, emphasized the urgent need to accelerate the implementation of critical tasks as South Sudan prepares for the upcoming democratic elections.
“The R-TGoNU should therefore demonstrate an unprecedented sense of urgency to accomplish the critical pending tasks for the conduct of credible, peaceful, free and fair democratic elections. As you may recall, the key tasks whose non-implementation necessitated this extension include the unification of forces and their redeployment, making of the permanent constitution and preparations for the conduct of credible elections.” Maj. Gen. Gitui said.
He appealed for swift implementation of the JRC recommendations, particularly regarding the review of the Judicial Act and the reconstitution of the Judicial Service Commission, to drive other reforms.
Gitui expressed concern over the delays in executing peace deal tasks due to a lack of necessary funding.
He pointed out that the funding shortfall has hindered the Political Parties Council, the National Election Commission, and the National Constitution Review Commission from fully discharging their mandates.
The R-JMEC chair further applauded the PPC, NEC, and NCRC for improving their internal capacities.
“In the meantime, R-JMEC may commend efforts being made by all the election-related institutions with support from the various partners in strengthening their internal capacities. Thus said, enhanced synergies and cooperation between these institutions are essential for their respective work plans and priorities to be aligned.” he stated.
In regard to transitional security arrangements, Gitui stressed that the completion of the unification of forces and their redeployment is crucial during the extended transitional period.
He underlined the significance for addressing emerging security concerns, such as the recent intercommunal violence in Mawi County, Eastern Equatorial State, and for creating a secure environment that facilitates credible elections.
Gitui also urged the R-TGoNU to provide the necessary funding for the peace agreement, its institutions, and mechanisms, as well as to establish a conducive environment for the voluntary return, resettlement, and reintegration of South Sudanese refugees and IDPs, to enable them to participate in the ongoing peace process.
“Further, I appeal to the regional grantors and international community to have a more accommodative approach that aligns with the need to do things differently as well in order to have South Sudan transit from the perpetual extensions. This could be through the following, among others.” he stressed.