In a pivotal moment at the 33rd Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) Plenary on December 7, 2023, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Guang Cong, addressed key issues concerning South Sudan’s political and humanitarian landscape.
Guang’s statements highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing the nation, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address issues ranging from elections and security concerns to the humanitarian crisis.
“Let me start by extending congratulations to His Excellency President Kiir and the people of South Sudan for assuming the Chairmanship of the East African Community,” expressed Guang Cong in his opening address to the 33rd RJMEC Plenary.
“At the meeting, we encouraged the Government to fully fund and operationalize the elections and constitution-making bodies,” Guang explained, referencing the call for the South Sudanese government to prioritize the electoral process.
“We also underscored the importance of international partners, in particular the regional organizations, working with a shared purpose in the joint efforts to assist the South Sudan transition,” he added.
“We welcome the recent deployment of the unified forces to Upper Nile State, and are encouraged by reports that further deployments are forthcoming,” Guang acknowledged the positive steps taken in terms of security measures.
“We urge the Government of South Sudan to provide much-needed safety and reintegration support to the returnees, refugees, and stateless persons who have sought refuge within its borders,” he emphasized regarding the humanitarian needs arising from conflicts and border crossings.
“While we commend the progress achieved so far, the timelines set out in the Roadmap are behind schedule,” Guang noted the delays in the implementation of the Peace Agreement and called for renewed efforts.
“I encourage the Government to enter 2024 with a renewed drive and a sense of urgency to implement the Peace Agreement,” Guang urged the South Sudanese government to prioritize the Peace Agreement, including vital bodies such as the Political Parties Council and the National Elections Commission.
“The United Nations will continue to support the Transitional Government and the parties to the Peace Agreement in advancing the peace process,” Guang assured of the UN’s ongoing commitment to facilitating peace in South Sudan.
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