The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has expressed concerns that South Sudan's planned December elections may face credibility risks. According to RJMEC, unresolved political disputes and incomplete security reforms pose significant threats to the electoral process. With only two months left before the planned December 22 elections, key tasks under the Revitalized Peace Agreement remain unfinished.
RJMEC has raised concerns about disagreements among political parties over the legal and political process for the elections. The commission believes that these disagreements could undermine public confidence in the vote and the country's political transition. Furthermore, RJMEC has questioned the government's decision to amend the peace agreement without following the procedures outlined in the deal. The proposed amendments were not approved by at least two-thirds of voting members, as required under Article 8.4 of the agreement.
The status of the inter-party dialogue launched in September remains unclear, according to RJMEC. Some political groups, including allies of detained and exiled SPLM/A-IO leaders, did not participate in the dialogue. RJMEC has called for inclusive dialogue involving all signatories to the peace agreement and groups that have not signed it. This, the commission believes, is crucial for building consensus and ensuring a peaceful end to the transitional period.
Security remains a major concern ahead of the elections. RJMEC warns that continued armed clashes, intercommunal violence, and incomplete security arrangements could affect voter registration, campaigning, and the safety of candidates and voters. These challenges could also undermine public acceptance of the election results. The commission has urged South Sudan's political leaders to put national interests first and resolve their differences through dialogue.
The report also highlights delays in constitutional reforms. According to RJMEC, no new progress was recorded in the permanent constitution-making process during the reporting period. This delay could have significant implications for the electoral process and the country's overall transition. RJMEC has emphasized the need for political will and the full implementation of the peace agreement to ensure a peaceful end to the transitional period.
Despite these challenges, RJMEC believes that political dialogue and increased regional engagement could create opportunities to build consensus. The commission has urged South Sudan's political leaders to fulfil their commitments under the peace agreement. A peaceful end to the transitional period will depend on the ability of these leaders to put national interests first and resolve their differences through dialogue.
RJMEC's warnings come at a critical time, with only two months left before the planned elections. The commission's concerns highlight the need for urgent action to address the outstanding issues. These include resolving political disputes, completing security reforms, and fulfilling commitments under the peace agreement. The international community is watching closely, and it remains to be seen whether South Sudan's leaders will be able to overcome their differences and ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
Key points
- RJMEC warns that unresolved political disputes and incomplete security reforms pose significant threats to South Sudan's December elections.
- The commission has called for inclusive dialogue involving all signatories to the peace agreement and groups that have not signed it.
- Security concerns, including armed clashes and intercommunal violence, could affect voter registration, campaigning, and the safety of candidates and voters.
