Concerns raised by Peace Monitors in South Sudan
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC) peace monitors have expressed concerns about communal violence in three states in South Sudan. The Interim Commission Chairperson, Charles Tai Gituai, highlighted incidences of violence and abductions in Unity, Jonglei, and Lakes states during the 37th Monthly Meeting of the R-JMEC in Juba.
Gituai also raised issues regarding the slow deployment of Necessary Unified Forces since their graduation in August 2022. The recently approved National Security Service Bill 2024 and the lack of clarity on elections were also discussed.
Ultimately, the road map to complete South Sudan’s transition to elections by December 2024 faces challenges due to delays in implementing key provisions of the 2018 peace agreement. The Principals of the Parties to the Agreement are expected to meet to provide clarity on the way forward.
Despite the progress made, concerns remain regarding violence, deployment of forces, security legislation, and election preparations in South Sudan.