By Lodu William

he Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) on Tuesday (yesterday) called on the African Union Security Council to prevail on parties to the Revitalized Peace Agreement to cease all actions that could further undermine trust and confidence in the country’s peace process and reactivate the functioning of the security mechanisms.

In a statement to the Council held virtually during the African Union Security Council meeting, RJMEC interim chairperson, Amb. Maj. Gen. (rtd) George Owinow said the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan is facing the most serious challenges since its signing in September 2018

“As a result, political tensions in Juba and around the country are heightened, and there is an urgent need to prevent them from rising any further,” he said.

In his recommendations to the Council, Ambassador Gen. Owinow reiterated the need for the leadership of the parties to the R-ARCSS to desist from actions that may escalate tensions, undertake constructive dialogue, and speak with one voice.

“The Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) should prioritize the completion of Phase I of the unification of forces and commence Phase II, as well as Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR), and proceed with the constitution-making process and preparations for the conduct of free, fair and credible elections in December 2026,” he said.

“Consider activating existing mechanisms in support of South Sudan, which could include the Panel of the Wise, to proactively engage with the Parties going forward in a spirit of dialogue and reconciliation,” Amb. Gen. Owinow added.  

RJMEC also highlighted the rising tension in Upper Nile and within Juba, urging leaders to avert them from rising any further.

“On the recent case of Nasir, in RJMEC’s assessment, it appears that a rotation of SSPDF forces who are garrisoned there turned into armed clashes involving forces of the Parties signatory to the Agreement, as well as local militia. These clashes caused several fatalities, including a UN helicopter crew member,” noted the peace monitor, adding:

“As a result, political tensions in Juba and around the country are heightened, and there is urgent need to prevent them from rising any further.”