Amb. Maj. Gen. George Owinow voiced concerns about the challenges facing the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan. He noted escalating tensions due to recent armed clashes and called for a unified approach among the leadership. The RJMEC Chair urged the RTGoNU to complete force unification and prepare for elections in December 2026 while advocating for proactive engagement from the African Union.
On Tuesday, Amb. Maj. Gen. (rtd) George Owinow, Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), expressed serious concerns about the state of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). He delivered these remarks during a virtual address to the 1265th African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), emphasizing the pressing challenges the agreement faces since its inception in September 2018.
Amb. Owinow pointed out that recent armed clashes, primarily in Western Equatoria and Western Bahr el Ghazal States, have exacerbated political tensions across South Sudan. Clashes were also reported in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, indicating a volatile situation that requires immediate intervention to mitigate further escalation.
In his address, he urged the leadership of the Parties to the R-ARCSS to refrain from actions that could increase tensions. He called for constructive dialogue among the Parties and emphasized the importance of presenting a unified front. The Chairperson stressed that the AU Peace and Security Council should intervene to encourage trust and confidence in the peace process by ceasing all actions that undermine it.
Amb. Owinow further recommended that the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) must focus on completing Phase I of the unification of forces and advancing into Phase II, which includes Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR). Additionally, he urged the government to advance the constitution-making process and prepare for free, fair, and credible elections scheduled for December 2026.
He proposed the activation of existing support mechanisms, such as the Panel of the Wise, to engage with the Parties in a spirit of dialogue and reconciliation, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to ensure peace and stability in South Sudan.
In summary, the RJMEC Chairperson has highlighted significant concerns regarding the deteriorating situation in South Sudan, particularly in relation to the R-ARCSS. The call for urgent dialogue, completion of unified forces, and preparations for upcoming elections underscores the importance of collaborative efforts by the Parties to restore peace and stability in the region. Continued engagement from the African Union will be vital in facilitating constructive resolutions.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
