The Other South Sudanese Stakeholders and Adherents, members of the Revitalized Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), and signatories to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) on Monday expressed concern over the escalating insecurity in parts of the country.
In a statement read on behalf of the group by Nancy Acayo Cirino, the Youth Representative to RJMEC, the stakeholders condemned the deteriorating security situation in Upper Nile State (Nasir and Ulang), Western Equatoria, and Western Bahr El Ghazal State.
“We express our sincere condolences to all the families that have lost loved ones during the ongoing crisis,” she said. “We call upon the parties to the R-ARCSS to abide by the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) signed in 2017 and unconditionally reaffirm the R-ARCSS as the governance framework during this transitional period to prevent political instability that could lead to a wider conflict in the country.”
The group appealed to the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) to take urgent steps to address the situation and stabilize the affected areas. The stakeholders also called for the immediate release of all political detainees, including leaders and members of the SPLM-IO, as a confidence-building measure that would promote national reconciliation.
“The continued detention of political leaders undermines peace efforts. If any individuals are to face charges, they should be indicted in a competent court of law, allowing justice to take its course,” Acayo emphasized. “The forces must operate with respect for legal principles, including the legal use of force, distinction, proportionality, humanity, and non-aggression.”
They urged the government to deploy Necessary Unified Forces to conflict-affected areas to stabilize security, protect civilians, and ensure unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid.
“We must engage all parties in inclusive dialogue, respecting human rights, promoting social cohesion, and building trust among all South Sudanese while considering local and traditional conflict resolution mechanisms,” Acayo stated. “Immediate action is needed now to restore stability and move the country toward national reconciliation, healing, and the successful conclusion of the transition with elections in 2026.”
The group reiterated its commitment to unity, dialogue, and collective responsibility as South Sudan continues to navigate the extended transitional period.