Festus Mogae, chairman of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC), a body tasked with overseeing implementation of the signed peace deal in South Sudan, says the country needs peace, relief and inclusivity. He pointed out that there can never be a military solution in South Sudan.
Speaking during a plenary meeting at Crown Hotel in Juba today, Mogae said how to stop the on-going fighting, starvation and to ensure that the interests and concerns of all South Sudanese communities are fully represented, remain a big challenge facing the peace monitoring body.
“I wish to spell out the three defining questions that we as JMEC faced together right now as we speak. How do we stop the fighting? How do we stop innocent people dying of starvations? And how do ensure that the interest and concerns of all South Sudanese communities are fully represented and considered,” he said.
He further said the insecurity situation and armed violence is a direct result of the perception and reality of political exclusion from the peace process.
“The humanitarian crisis now officially a famine with the direct result of insecurity and armed violence perpetrated by all parties to the agreement,” Mogae said.
Mogae stressed that there can never be a military solution in South Sudan, saying sustainable solutions need willingness to listen to all views and accommodate all constituencies and compromise.
The peace monitor called for cessation of hostilities and immediate deployment of regional protection force in South Sudan. “There must be accountability for atrocities committed by both parties in the country.”
Mogae pointed out that when the people of South Sudan see that their interests are considered, can bring peace to South Sudan without imposing it.
He noted that the dialogue initiative called for by President Kiir must be genuine and sincerely inclusive. “I have reiterated my view, that the national dialogue must hear and address the views of all the communities in South Sudan not simply those who agreed with the government, “Mogae said.
Mogae urged the government to reconsider its revised fees for work permits to allow humanitarian assistance to the needy people. “Increase in work permit fees will impair future economic growth and development through reduction of skills,” he said.
Photo: Festus Mogae, chairman of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC)/Radio Tamazuj