Augostino Njoroge, the Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), called for operationalization of cantonment sites.
Njoroge made the appeal while addressing the 6th RJMEC plenary in Juba on Wednesday.
“It is my firm belief that the operationalization of cantonment is the key to getting the Pre-Transitional period back on track. From there, the training and redeployment of Necessary Unified Forces can proceed and pave the way for the formation of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU),” he told participants.
Njoroge further said it is imperative that all implementing institutions must now collectively own responsibility and do much more during this extension period.
“With the provision of the required resources and expertise, I see no reason why these pending tasks cannot be achieved,” he said.
The Interim Chair welcomed the release of some funds by the government, adding that “the procurement process must be supported by a transparent and accountable system for the disbursement of funds.”
Njoroge pointed out that refugees and IDPs can only return home when they realise the genuine commitment of political leaders to the revitalized peace agreement.
The South Sudan parties signed a peace agreement in September 2018 which was meant to culminate in a transitional government on 12 May.
However critical issues such as the creation of a unified army are yet to be implemented with the formation of the unity government has been delayed another six months.