The African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat has praised the recent move by South Sudan to approve the formation of AU hybrid court.

The AU boss said the move now puts an end to the lengthy delays and will spearhead the reconciliation process and the realisation of justice necessary to heal the wounds.

‘‘The Chairperson notes with appreciation that this decision puts an end to the delays in establishing the Court, transitional justice, accountability, reconciliation and healing institutions in order to bring justice and healing to all South Sudanese,’’ Au notes in a statement released on January 30.

‘‘The African Union Commission looks forward to work with the Government of South Sudan to ensure the finalization and signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the establishment of the Court at the earliest opportunity.’’

The commission has affirmed its support to South Sudanese peace especially at a time that the country restructures to implement the revitalised peace agreement.

Cabinet meeting

This comes after a cabinet meeting convened on Friday, January 29, cleared Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Rueben Madol to ensure the establishment of the court.

 “Cabinet authorised him to start the process of establishing all these institutions in accordance with the provision of the peace agreement,” said Michael Lueth, the Minister of Information and Broadcasting, and government spokesperson.

The court, which will comprise local and foreign judges, will try cases of crimes against humanity and human rights violation committed in six years of civil war.

It is part of the implementation of the 2018 agreement which was signed by President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Dr Riek Machar. The constitution of the court is enshrined in the chapter 5 of the agreement.