The Revitalised Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has renewed its appeal for the immediate release of SPLM-IO detainees and the resumption of inclusive dialogue between the SPLM/A-IO and the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU).
Speaking at the 4th Extraordinary Plenary Meeting in Juba, Interim Chairperson Amb. Maj Gen George Aggrey Owinow (rtd) warned that the ongoing political and security deadlock is undermining the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
“The persistent detention of senior SPLM/A-IO leaders and the continued political standoff threaten to reverse the gains of the peace process,” Owinow said.
He emphasized that restoring dialogue and releasing detainees are critical steps to rebuild trust among the parties and advance the full implementation of the R-ARCSS.
RJMEC noted that recent clashes, including the 7 March incident in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, which claimed the lives of a senior SSPDF General and a UNMISS helicopter crew member, have exacerbated mistrust and disrupted several implementation mechanisms, including CTSAMVM and other monitoring teams.
The Commission urged regional and international guarantors to intensify their diplomatic engagements to resolve the crisis.
It also called on all parties to adhere to the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements, reactivate stalled institutions, and fast-track constitution-making and electoral preparations ahead of the scheduled December 2026 elections.
“The peace of South Sudan is at a critical juncture,” Owinow said. “Immediate remedial action by the parties, supported by national, regional, and international partners, is essential to safeguard the agreement and prevent a relapse into violence.”
RJMEC reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring and supporting the implementation of the R-ARCSS and appealed to all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue, reconciliation, and the protection of political and civic space.
