Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin is a veteran South Sudanese opposition politician and leader of the National Democratic Movement (NDM).
Akol’s NDM party is a signatory to the 2018 revitalized peace agreement under the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) umbrella, a grouping of several political parties.
Radio Tamazuj caught up with and sounded out the opposition politician about the implementation of the peace agreement, challenges facing SSOA, and preparation for the 2024 elections, among other things.
Below are edited excerpts:
(Part 1)
Q: Dr. Lam, there has been a concern for your safety since the fighting started in Khartoum. What would you like to convey to those who are worried about you?
A: Thank you, Radio Tamazuj, for giving me the opportunity. I thank those who expressed concern about my safety when I was in Khartoum when the conflict erupted there. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the people of South Sudan as we commemorate the 12th anniversary of our independence. Our independence came after years of struggle and a referendum where South Sudan voted overwhelmingly for separation, becoming a sovereign and independent country. This is a momentous occasion that deserves celebration. Regarding the recent conflict in Khartoum, I was there during the initial outbreak of violence and stayed for nearly a month. Many people were worried about our safety and advised us to leave. Departing Khartoum was not easy, but thankfully, I am now in a safe location outside of Sudan, and I am grateful to God for that.
Q: If you could send a message to the Sudanese leaders, the Rapid Support Forces, and the leaders of the Sudan Armed Forces, what would it be?
A: My message remains consistent with what I have been conveying to the Sudanese leaders in Khartoum: war is destructive, and there is no valid reason for this conflict. I firmly believe that peaceful means could have prevented this war. Unfortunately, the situation has escalated, and now it is crucial for our Sudanese brothers to learn from our experiences. South Sudan has gone through wars with Sudan and internally, causing immense loss of human lives, destruction of property, and significant societal damage. Our society in South Sudan is fragile, with tribal ties playing a crucial role. Even minor tensions can have a detrimental impact on the overall situation. Therefore, my message to the warring parties is to consider the situation in Sudan and strive for a peaceful resolution as soon as possible to bring an end to this war.
Q: Shifting focus to the situation in South Sudan, as one of the signatories of the South Sudan peace agreement, what is your assessment of the peace implementation so far?
A: Firstly, I want to emphasize that the ceasefire protocol has held despite numerous challenges that hindered the implementation of the peace agreement. This is a positive aspect, and I commend the signatory parties for their commitment to the ceasefire agreement since December 2017, renewed during the peace deal in September 2018. However, when it comes to evaluating the peace agreement’s overall implementation, progress has been slow at all levels. The pre-transitional period, originally set for eight months, was extended to over 17 months.
Similarly, the transitional period was scheduled to conclude in February 2023, followed by elections two months prior. Yet, we have now extended the transitional period to December 2024. It has been over five years since the agreement was signed, and the pace of implementation remains sluggish. This lack of progress stems mainly from a lack of political will, particularly from the main party to the peace agreement. Essential provisions that should have been implemented to pave the way for elections remain unfulfilled, leading to the extension. It is evident that a stronger political will and more concerted efforts are required to expedite the implementation process and create a conducive environment for conducting general elections.
Q: At present, it seems challenging to convince the international community to support another extension, considering the repeated delays in the implementation process. Additionally, the government is not inclined towards the idea of a roundtable. In your opinion, what is the way forward?
A: Before attempting to convince the international community, it is essential to gain the support of the South Sudanese people for another extension. A recent survey indicates that the majority of South Sudanese citizens support conducting elections as scheduled. Therefore, any proposal for another extension may face opposition from the South Sudanese population itself. It is crucial to clarify this point. When we examine the outstanding issues yet to be implemented and compare them with the current situation in the country, it becomes apparent that holding elections is not feasible. So, if the people are convinced and there is political will, coupled with a well-planned strategy, I believe elections can take place. However, it is vital to identify and address the key issues that must be implemented to create a conducive environment for elections. Ensuring security is paramount. Citizens must feel secure to return to their homes and trust that the electoral process will be confidential and transparent. This requires establishing a unified army, as stated in the peace agreement.
Currently, there are multiple commanders and a lack of trust in the security organs, which resulted in citizens fleeing the country. The return of refugees is crucial for a successful election. Additionally, passing key laws, such as the national security law, political parties act, and election law, is necessary. Reforms within the judiciary and the establishment of an independent court system are equally important for a fair electoral process. Finally, having a permanent constitution, conducting a census, and creating a free environment where political parties can campaign without obstacles are significant steps. Considering the time required for these implementations, it seems unlikely that they can be accomplished by December 2024.
Q: What do you suggest as the way forward, given the challenges and time constraints?
A: It is important to note that these issues do not require the same amount of time for implementation. Currently, an electoral act is in place, and a national security act is being reviewed in parliament. These legislative processes typically take around two months. With 17 months remaining, there is adequate time for these steps. The judiciary reforms committee is already formed, and once their resolutions are presented to the council of ministers, comprehensive reforms can be initiated from the Supreme Court to the lowest level. The establishment of a constitutional court, as outlined in the agreement, is also part of this process. These reforms do not demand extensive time. However, there are two critical issues that require more time: drafting a permanent constitution and conducting a census. Both of these matters necessitate cooperation among all parties involved. Therefore, I believe that if a conducive environment is created, allowing people to move freely and conduct their campaigns without hindrance, and if there is a genuine commitment to the electoral process, discussions on the remaining issues can take place openly. So that is when South Sudan can be ready for elections in December 2024.