Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Monday, 06 July, 2026, South Sudan
RJMEC expresses deep concern over renewed fighting in Jonglei State, calls for immediate cessation of hostilities
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) expresses deep concern over reports of renewed fighting between the South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People's Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) in Walgak, Akobo County, Jonglei State, on Sunday, 5 July 2026. Reports indicate that the clashes resulted in casualties and heightened insecurity, although details remain limited.
RJMEC strongly condemns the renewed violence, which undermines the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), threatens the safety and security of civilians and risks reversing the gains made in the country's fragile peace process.
The Commission calls upon all parties to immediately cease hostilities, exercise maximum restraint and resolve their differences through dialogue in accordance with the provisions of the R-ARCSS. Military confrontation cannot provide a sustainable solution to political challenges. It only deepens human suffering and erodes public confidence in the peace process.
RJMEC is particularly concerned about the humanitarian consequences of the fighting, including the displacement of civilians and the potential disruption of humanitarian assistance to vulnerable communities.
The Commission urges all parties to respect international humanitarian law, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure and guarantee safe, unhindered humanitarian access to those in need.
The Commission calls on the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) to investigate the reported incident, establish the facts surrounding the clashes and present its findings through the appropriate peace agreement mechanisms.
RJMEC reiterates that all Signatory Parties bear the primary responsibility for faithfully implementing the provisions of the R-ARCSS and urges all parties to demonstrate maximum restraint, honour their commitments to the permanent ceasefire under the Agreement and prioritize dialogue over confrontation in the interest of lasting peace and stability the Republic of South Sudan.
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Thursday, 02 July, 2026, South Sudan
RJMEC CONVENES A BRIEFING SESSION ON THE STATUS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE R-ARCSS, URGES RENEWED POLITICAL WILL TO ADVANCE PEACE IMPLEMENTATION
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today July 2, 2026 convened a special briefing session on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
The briefing chaired by the RJMEC Interim Chairperson, H.E. Amb. Maj. Gen. Aggrey George Owinow (Rtd), brought together representatives of the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU), agreement implementation institutions, RJMEC members and partners to review progress, identify challenges and assess the status of implementation of key provisions of the Peace Agreement as the end of the transitional period edges closer.
In his opening remarks, the Interim Chairperson acknowledged that RJMEC had been unable to convene its regular monthly plenary meetings in recent months due to the political and security challenges that followed the Nasir incident in February 2025, as well as technical and logistical constraints.
The Interim Chairperson highlighted RJMEC's sustained diplomatic engagements, which contributed to renewed regional and continental attention on South Sudan peace process.
These efforts, he said, culminated in the convening of the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee for South Sudan (AU C5+) Summit and the IGAD Heads of State and Government Meeting on South Sudan, both held in Addis Ababa on 15 February 2026, resulting in the adoption of the AU C5 Plus Declaration (attached).
The meeting today comes at a critical juncture following the recent announcement of the country's election date. While the Revitilised Peace Agreement has recorded progress in some areas, a number of fundamental tasks necessary for the successful conduct of peaceful, credible and inclusive elections remain outstanding.
It is against this backdrop, RJMEC received updates from key Agreement implementation institutions, including the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC), the Political Parties Council (PPC), the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) and the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU).
The institutions briefed members on progress made in implementing their respective mandates, the challenges encountered and the support required to deliver on the remaining provisions of the Revitilised Agreement.
The convening of the meeting marks an important step in strengthening oversight and coordination among the Agreement's implementing institutions and mechanisms.
RJMEC Chairpersom reiterated that the full, timely and faithful implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement remains the most credible pathway to sustainable peace, national reconciliation, democratic governance and the successful completion of South Sudan's transition.
The Amb. Owinow called upon all Parties to demonstrate renewed political will, uphold their commitments under the Agreement and work collectively to create the conditions necessary for peaceful, free, fair and credible elections.
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Wednesday, 20 May, 2026, South Sudan
RJMEC PRESENTS QUARTERLY REPORT TO RTNLA, CAUTIONS AMENDMENTS ABROGATE R-ARCSS SUPREMACY, INTEGRITY
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today, Wednesday 20 May 2026, presented its quarterly report to the Reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (RTNLA).
The briefing, covering the period from 1 January to 31 March 2026, follows a report, submitted in accordance with Article 7.9 of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), which mandates RJMEC to provide quarterly updates to the RTNLA on the status of implementation of the Agreement.
Addressing Members of Parliament, RJMEC Interim Chairperson Amb. Maj. Gen. George Owinow (rtd) stated that implementation of the R-ARCSS had “considerably faltered” during the reporting period, noting that in some cases, “peace dividends achieved over the first seven years of the Agreement have been eroded.
Regarding the proposed amendments to the R-ARCSS currently before the RTNLA, Amb. Owinow informed the Assembly, that, following his extensive consultations with RJMEC members, including representatives of the Parties to the R-ARCSS, Other South Sudanese Stakeholders and Adherents, Regional Guarantors, and International Partners and Friends of South Sudan, concerns were raised regarding the context of the amendments, including ongoing systematic violations of the Agreement and the exclusion of some key Party signatories.
He further reported that the majority of the RJMEC members and stakeholders emphasized that the R-ARCSS is not limited to elections, but also includes critical peacebuilding and democratic governance reforms that remain essential both before and after elections and must not be abandoned. The Chairperson noted that while Articles 1.2.5 and 1.2.14 of the R-ARCSS relate directly to elections, the justification advanced for the proposed amendment remains within the electoral framework. However, he cautioned that Articles 8.2 and 8.3 of the R-ARCSS, extend beyond elections and carry broader legal and institutional implications for the Agreement.
He observed that some of the proposed amendments would alter the structure and architecture of the R-ARCSS, undermining its legal foundation, abrogating its supremacy, and weakening the oversight role of IGAD and the African Union as guarantors, urging the legislators to reaffirm the supremacy and binding nature of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, stressing that any amendments must preserve its integrity, legality, and continuity.
He further cautioned that without such safeguards, the risk of political fragmentation and renewed large-scale violence would continue to rise, with serious implications for national and regional stability.
He called on the Assembly members, “irrespective of their political affiliation, to continue playing a critical role in supporting the full and faithful implementation of the R-ARCSS in order to restore public confidence in the transition.”
“The R-ARCSS derives its authority from the consent of all Parties, and its incorporation into the constitutional framework makes it a foundational document for South Sudan,” he said, adding that safeguards are necessary to preserve its legitimacy and the rule-based foundation of the transition.
He reaffirmed that the R-ARCSS remains the most viable framework for sustainable peace, stability, unity, and democratization in South Sudan, urging all leaders and stakeholders to uphold its integrity and ensure a peaceful and democratic conclusion to the transitional period.
“As RJMEC, we remain committed to constructively engaging with the RTGoNU Executive to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Agreement. Where contestation arise, we rely on the guidance of the IGAD Council of Ministers, as guarantor pursuant to Article 7.10 of the R-ARCSS,” he concluded.
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Friday, 08 May, 2026, South Sudan
RJMEC MOURNS THE PASSING OF ITS FIRST CHAIRPERSON, HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT FESTUS GONTEBANYE MOGAE
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has received with profound sadness the news of the passing on of its first Chairperson, His Excellency Festus Gontebanye Mogae.
H.E. Mogae was appointed to head the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC) by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in October 2015, where he was entrusted with the responsibility of setting up the JMEC Secretariat and overseeing the implementation of the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (ARCSS).
He played a critical role in initiating the implementation of the 2015 Peace Agreement and his unwavering efforts led to the establishment of the first Transitional Government of National Unity (TGoNU) in the Republic of South Sudan in April 2016.
Following the unfortunate fighting at the Presidential Palace in Juba in July 2016, which triggered renewed fighting, President Mogae, through his diplomatic skill, moral authority, and tireless advocacy, recommended the revitalisation of the ARCSS. His effort helped guide the Parties to the conflict towards compromise and recommitment to peace, laying the groundwork for a roboust Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) signed in September of 2018, in Addis Ababa Ethiopia. The R-ARCSS remains, to date, the most viable framework for building lasting peace, unity, reconciliation and democraticisation in the Republic of South Sudan.
His calm leadership inspired confidence among national peace stakeholders, regional and international partners, and reinforced the centrality of dialogue in resolving political conflict in the Republic of South Sudan.
President Festus Mogae stepped down as the Chairperson of RJMEC in October 2018. In his farewell message, he delivered a powerful and timeless appeal to the nation’s leadership and its people: “Instead of buying guns, buy textbooks and turn swords into ploughshares.”
This message captured his enduring belief that the future of South Sudan lies not in conflict, but in education, reconciliation, and productive nation-building. It was a call to redirect resources from war to development, from division to unity, and from destruction to hope.
Beyond his service to South Sudan, H.E. Mogae was a respected statesman who served as President of the Republic of Botswana with dedication and honor, earning admiration across the African continent and beyond for his humility, discipline, and visionary leadership. He passed away today May 8th, 2026, in Gaborone, leaving behind a legacy of service, diplomacy, and unwavering commitment to peace, justice, rule of law, prosperity and good governance.
The Secretariat of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) extends its deepest condolences to his family, the Government and people of the Republic of Botswana, and all those who were touched by his exemplary life of his public service. His contributions to peace in the Republic of South Sudan and to the advancement of Africa will remain enduring and forever cherished.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Wednesday, 22 April, 2026, South Sudan
RJMEC RELEASES ITS LATEST QUARTERLY REPORT, CALLS FOR URGENT CESSATION OF HOSTILITIES AND INCLUSIVE DIALOGUE IN SOUTH SUDAN
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today, 22 April 2026, released its Quarterly Report on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), covering the period 1 January to 31 March 2026.
Prepared pursuant to Article 7.9 of the R-ARCSS, the report observes that implementation registered minimal progress during the reporting period, amid persistent political tensions, continued ceasefire violations, and a worsening humanitarian situation.
The report documents ongoing violations of the Permanent Ceasefire between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO), as well as allied forces, despite repeated calls for de-escalation and dialogue. The report further notes that the Ceasefire & Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring Mechanism (CTSAMVM) recorded 133 alleged violations during the quarter, including armed clashes, crimes against civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, forced displacement, and occupation of civilian areas by armed forces.
“Progress on key transitional benchmarks and reforms remained slow, constrained by limited time, capacity gaps, and funding shortfalls. To halt further deterioration and restore confidence in the peace process, there is an urgent need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, coupled with the commencement of an inclusive dialogue in line with the AU C5 Plus Declaration,” the further notes.
“Without these steps, the risk of further political fragmentation, and renewed large‑scale violence will continue to increase, with serious implications for national and regional stability,” it adds.
Additionally, the report cites deep concern regarding the prevailing political and security challenges affecting implementation of the R-ARCSS, underscoring the urgency of preventing further deterioration.
“Continued clashes threaten civilian protection and humanitarian access, while undermining confidence in the R-ARCSS as the primary framework for peace and stability. Without a sustained cessation of hostilities, progress on governance reforms, electoral preparations, and transitional justice remains fragile and reversible.”
The report also highlights a growing deficit of political trust among key actors. It notes that unilateral actions, limited consultation, and recurring confrontations have weakened the consensus-based foundations of the Agreement.“In this context, the need for an inclusive political dialogue has become increasingly pronounced. Such dialogue is essential to de-escalate tensions and address unresolved political issues that continue to impede the transition. The absence of structured and inclusive engagement risks entrenching polarization and narrowing the political space at a time when broad participation is critical,” the report emphasizes.
The report concludes with targeted recommendations addressed to the Parties to the Agreement, the Executive of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU), the Transitional National Legislature, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union (AU), the United Nations (UN), and International P artners.
Key recommendations include cessation of hostilities and renewed commitment to the full implementation of outstanding tasks; an urgent genuine inclusive political dialogue; strict adherence to amendment procedures under the R-ARCSS; accelerated security sector reforms; strengthened oversight and accountability mechanisms; enhanced protection of civilians and humanitarian access; and the provision of adequate, predictable, and sustained funding for institutions supporting the transition and preparations for elections.
THE FULL REPORT:
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Monday, 20 April 2026 Juba, South Sudan
RJMEC presents Quarterly Report to RTNLA, clarifies Amendment Procedures for the R-ARCSS and TCRSS, 2011 (as Amended)
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today, 20 April 2026, presented its quarterly report to the Reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (RTNLA).
The quarterly report, covering the period from 1 October to 31 December 2025, was presented in accordance with Article 7.9 of the R-ARCSS, which mandates the RJMEC to report quarterly to RTNLA and provide detailed updates on the status of implementation of the Agreement.
In his address to the Members of Legislative Assembly, Amb. Maj. Gen. George Owinow, RJMEC Interim Chairperson also clarified on the legal procedure governing amendments to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan (TCRSS), 2011 (as amended), during the Transitional Period.
Under Article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS, the Revitalized Agreement may be amended by the Parties, provided that at least two-thirds of the members of the Council of Ministers of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) approve the amendment, and at least two-thirds of the voting members of RJMEC consent to it. Only thereafter can such an amendment be ratified by the Transitional National Legislature in accordance with the constitutional amendment procedures set out in the TCRSS, 2011 (as amended).
“While Article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS provides for the amendment of both the Agreement and the TCRSS during the Transitional Period, such amendments must be properly initiated in accordance with Article 1.9.4 of the Agreement,” Amb. Owinow stated.
He further explained that Article 1.9.4 stipulates that the amendments to the TCRSS (2011) and the R-ARCSS may be initiated by the President, the First Vice President, or any of the Vice Presidents, and shall require the agreement of the others.
Once properly initiated in accordance with these provisions, amendments to the R-ARCSS and the TCRSS (2011), as amended, shall follow the procedures outlined under Article 8.4 of the Agreement.
In his recommendations, Amb. Owinow asked the RTGoNU to adhere to the provisions of the R-ARCSS, including Articles 1.9.4.1 and 8.4 of on the initiation and approval of any amendments to the TCRSS 2011 (as amended) and the R-ARCSS, through consultatioon, consensus and agreement of all the principals to the R-ARCSS.
He emphasised that unless urgent measures are undertaken to restore inclusive dialogue, uphold the sanctity of the R-ARCSS, and ensure inclusivity, South Sudan risks sliding back into instability, jeopardising the hard-won gains of the peace process.
He further urged the signatories to the Revitilised Agreement to abandon all actions that undermine the R-ARCSS, particularly unilateral decisions and breaches of the ceasefire resulting in loss of life, property and displacement, in order to guarantee humanitarian access and civilian protection.
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Monday, 09 March 2026, Juba, South Sudan
RJMEC EXPRESSES DEEP CONCERN OVER SSPDF DIRECTIVE IN AKOBO COUNTY, CALLS FOR RESTRAINT
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) expresses deep concern following the 6 March 2026 directive issued by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) instructing the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), UN agencies, and civilians to vacate Akobo County, Jonglei State within 72 hours, ahead of a planned military operation.
RJMEC notes that the announced military operation, if implemented, risks heightening tensions, and could potentially lead to unwarranted loss of lives, large-scale displacement of civilians and severe disruption to the critical humanitarian access in the area.
Furthermore, it undermines the provisions of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), including the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) and the Permanent Ceasefire.
The Commission calls upon the SSPDF to exercise maximum restraint and urges RTGoNU to address security concerns through the mechanisms established under the R-ARCSS, rather than through military action.
RJMEC underscores the importance of ensuring the safety and security of civilians, humanitarian personnel, and the United Nations agency staff. In order for humanitarian actors to continue providing life-saving assistance to the populations in need, they need to operate freely and without obstruction.
The Commission reiterates that full implementation of the R-ARCSS remains the pathway for durable peace and stability in the Republic of South Sudan and calls upon all parties and stakeholders to recommit to the spirit and provisions of the Agreement, urgently de-escalate tensions, cease hostilities and engage in an incusive dialogue to address the current political and security challenges facing the country.
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Thursday, 05 March 2026, Juba, South Sudan
RJMEC CONDEMNS THE KILLINGS IN ABIEMNOM, CALLS FOR URGENT INVESTIGATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has learnt with grave concern of the horrific incident that occurred on 1 March in Abiemnom County, Ruweng Administrative Area, in which more than 160 civilians were reportedly killed, several others injured, and over a thousand displaced. Senior local government officials and members of law enforcement are also reportedly among those who lost their lives.
RJMEC condemns in the strongest possible terms these heinous acts of violence, which undermine efforts to restore lasting peace and stability and further compound the already dire humanitarian situation in the country. Such wanton attacks against civilians and public officials are occurring amid escalating hostilities and armed clashes involving some signatory Parties to the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and their affiliates, which continue to erode peace, stability and public confidence across the country.
In this regard, RJMEC takes note of the directive by the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) to security organs to investigate the incident, and ensure that those responsible are identified and held accountable.
Furthermore, RJMEC calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities across the country, the de-escalation of tensions, the prevention of further violence, and the urgent commencement of an inclusive political dialogue.
The Commission conveys its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and further calls upon the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) to undertake a prompt and comprehensive and impartial investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
In conclusion, RJMEC appeals to the humanitarian agencies and relevant stakeholders to consider scaling up necessary support to the affected population.
ENDS
PRESS RELEASE
(FOR IMMEDIATE PUBLICATION)
Tuesday, 10 February 2026, Juba, South Sudan
RJMEC to UN Security Council: South Sudan political and security situation continues to deteriorate, R-ARCSS in serious jeopardy
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has on Tuesday 10 February 2026, addressed the 10103rd meeting of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
In his address to the meeting delivered virtually, RJMEC Interim Chairperson Ambassador Major General (Rtd) George Aggrey Owinow informed the Council that since RJMEC’s last briefing on the 18 August 2025, “the political and security situation in the Republic of South Sudan has continued to deteriorate, placing the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) in serious jeopardy.”
Amb. Owinow told the Council that since March 2025, the permanent ceasefire has been severely violated, adding that clashes between the South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF) and Sudan People's Liberation Army-In-Opposition (SPLA-IO) show no signs of abating.
“Despite the continuous appeal for de-escalation, ceasefire, political dialogue and adherence to the provisions of the R-ARCSS, repeated actions to the contrary have seriously undermined confidence in the peace process and risk returning the country back to war,” he said.
“With time fast running out, any further deterioration of the security situation, coupled with failure by the RTGoNU to urgently address the political stalemate and commence genuine and inclusive dialogue on a viable way forward, including on the conduct of elections and a peaceful end to the Transitional Period, poses a great risk to the Peace Agreement,” he added.
On the political front, Amb. Owinow said, the responsibility-sharing arrangements of the Revitalised Peace Agreement continue to erode through unilateral removals and replacements of opposition representatives from different portfolios of the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) executive and legislature at national and state levels.
In addition, he said, H.E. Dr Riek Machar Teny, First Vice President and Chairperson of the SPLM/A-IO, remains in confinement and on trial together with other SPLM/A-IO officials.
“Meanwhile, some decisions are being made within the RTGoNU without the consensus of all Agreement signatories as required by the R-ARCSS,” he said.
In his recommendations, Amb. Owinow called on the Council to prevail on the Parties to the Agreement to cease all hostilities, embrace all-inclusive genuine dialogue, restore and respect the Permanent Ceasefire, and embark on the full reunification and professionalisation of security forces under a single non-partisan command.
He further called on the UNSC to assist the RTGoNU to resolve the current political and security impasse and find a political solution to the issue of the First Vice President and all political detainees to pave the way to meaningful dialogue to a peaceful end to the Transitional Period.
ENDS
Communication Office
PRESS RELEASE
(For Immediate Publication)
Friday, 23 January 2026, South Sudan
RJMEC briefs AUPSC on the situation in South Sudan, cites violations of the R-ARCSS
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today Friday January 23, 2026, addressed the 1326th meeting of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AUPSC) on the status of implementation of the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (ARCSS).
In his address delivered virtually, RJMEC Chairperson Amb. Maj. Gen. George Owinow informed the Council that the political and security situation in the Republic of South Sudan has greatly continued to deteriorate, and the implementation of the ARCSS has been severely undermined.
Amb. Owinow said: “In addition to the previously reported March 7th Nasir incident and its aftermath, as well as the subsequent arrest, detention, and prosecution of the First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny and other top SPLM/A-IO officials before an ad-hoc Special Court, serious violations of the R-ARCSS continue unabated.”
Amb. Owinow added: “growing incidents of armed clashes between the SSPDF and SPLA-IO in different parts of the country, including in Jonglei, Upper Nile, Unity, Western Bahr El Ghazal, Eastern Equatoria and Western Equatoria States, in clear breach of the Permanent Ceasefire.”
“These developments pose a serious threat of irretrievable breakdown of the Permanent Ceasefire between the SPLA-IO and the SSPDF if urgent steps are not taken to cease the current hostilities and resume dialogue at the highest political level,” Amb. Owinow said.
In his recommendations to the Peace and Security Council, Amb. Owinow called on the esteemed body to prevail on the Parties to the Agreement to cease all forms of hostilities, embrace inclusive genuine dialogueand re-activate the implementation mechanisms of the Agreement and fully adhere to the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements.
He further called on the AUPSC to urge the leadership in Juba to desist from taking actions that further erode the political trust and confidence in the Revitalised Peace Agreement and ensure that the political disagreements are resolved through dialogue and disputes are addressed through the mechanisms of the R-ARCSS.
ENDS
Communication Office
(For Immediate Publication)
Thursday, 23 October 2025 Juba, South Sudan
RJMEC RELEASES ITS LATEST QUARTERLY REPORT, OBSERVESINCREASE IN CLASHES BETWEEN SIGNATORY PARTIES, VIOLATIONS OF PERMANENT CEASEFIRE
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has today Wednesday November 22, 2025, released its latest Quarterly Report on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
In the report covering the 3rd Quarter of the year July 1st – September 30th 2025 and prepared pursuant to Article 7.9 of the R-ARCSS, the Commission reported an increase in clashes between Parties signatory to R-ARCSS, which constitute violations of the Permanent Ceasefire.
The clashes particularly involved South Sudan Peoples Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army – In Opposition (SPLA -IO), across the Upper Nile, Jonglei, Western, Central and Eastern Equatoria States, signalling widespread breaches of the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements.
The R-ARCSS faced renewed challenges following the Nasir incident (March 2025), a major violation of the Permanent Ceasefire, and its aftermath which triggered arrests, detentions and a judicial process currently ongoing.
“As a result of the serious violation of the permanent ceasefire by key signatory Parties, there has been no progress in the unification and deployment of forces. The little progress on the unification of forces that had been registered between August 2022 and January 2023, has been eroded by the ongoing fighting,” the report adds.
“The current political and security situation must be addressed urgently to return the implementation process back on track in order to safeguard the gains of the peace Agreement and to prevent a relapse to violence in South Sudan,” the report said.
On the country’s election preparedness, the Commission said: “With barely 13 months left to the elections as scheduled, there is need for expeditious implementation of the pending tasks of the constitution-making and electoral processes as they are interlinked. Implementation of most of these tasks require funding.”
According to the National Election Commission (NEC), the Commission is faced with several challenges, among others, lack of political will, persistent security concerns in the country and inadequate and delayed funding disbursement.
On the humanitarian front, the Commission called for an urgent need for the lifting of access restrictions by armed actors and assurance of safety of humanitarian workers to enable the urgent delivery of assistance to the affected communities.
Notwithstanding the numerous setbacks which faced the implementation of the R-ARCSS during the reporting period, the Commission said, South Sudan was not left alone.
“All diplomatic concerted efforts by the partners at the regional and international levels were invested in restoring the sanctity of the R-ARCSS. The efforts are a clear demonstration of their political goodwill towards the quest for sustainable peace and stability of South Sudan.
"“South Sudanese leaders should reciprocate the goodwill by dialoguing with each other and return to inclusive implementation of the R-ARCSS to enable a smooth end of the transitional period,” it added.
FULL REPORT: https://bit.ly/4qsd1TE