Festus Mogae, chairman of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC), a body tasked with overseeing implementation of the signed peace accord in South Sudan, has called for inclusive political participation in the country.

Speaking during the opening of the JMEC plenary meeting in Juba today, Mogae says the signed peace agreement should address the issue of political inclusivity to have legitimacy. “We must address the issue of political inclusivity, for the peace agreement to have legitimacy, it must be inclusive and representative,” said Mogae.

“We urge the TGoNU to establish an environment within which all people of South Sudan, irrespective of their ethnicity or background, can safely return and engage in constructive and peaceful dialogue,” he added.

He noted that lasting peace requires the presence of all parties who signed the peace agreement in 2015.” everyone is needed in South Sudan, and we urge the parties to return, but only in a spirit of peace and reconciliation,” said Mogae.

The oversight body expressed its concern about the ongoing military operations by both government forces and opposition fighters around Yei, Leer and Jazeera areas, saying the security situation in the Equatoria region is a particular concern.

Mogae also expressed concern about targeting of civilians, while emphasizing the need for accountability in South Sudan. He pointed out that increasing numbers of citizens are fleeing their villages due to insecurity situation, while calling on the two warring parties to gain full control of their forces and observe the ceasefire with immediate effect.

The peace monitor deplored deteriorating humanitarian conditions of the people of South Sudan due to the ongoing conflict, calling on the international community to provide help to the needy people.   

“Almost five million people are estimated to have insufficient food, and one million are living outside the country as refugees, over 2 million people are internally displaced, and are living in squalor,” he said.

"I call on the international community to provide the necessary logistic and financial support to address the dire humanitarian situation, sexual violence against women and girls and the conscription of child soldiers by armed groups continues unabated,” he said.

JMEC welcomed the UN Security Council resolution which provides for the deployment of a regional protection force to security the capital Juba as a neutral environment.

Mogae urged the unity government to develop a revised and realistic timeline and implement a schedule that is consistent with the peace agreement.

JMEC reiterated its commitment to the peace agreement in South Sudan, while calling on all parties to resume its full implementation.