Ceasefire monitors urge faster security reforms ahead of vote

JUBA – South Sudans Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) has urged the parties to the revitalized peace agreement to speed up implementation of security tasks ahead of the elections slated for December 2024.

“In regards, to the roadmap of the extended Transitional Period, CTSAMVM urges RTGoNU to quickly implement the remaining unimplemented tasks especially Chapter 2, which concerns the provision of security arrangements,” Hailu Gonfa Eddosa, Chairperson of CTSAMVM, said during a meeting in Juba on Tuesday.

Eddosa highlighted the importance of deploying the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) to address security and facilitate elections.

He expressed concern over clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF) and armed youths in Upper Nile State in February 2024, as well as the creation of a new army division comprised solely of SSPDF soldiers in Lakes State.

Eddosa further noted that cantonment sites and training centers lack essential supplies such as food.

However, Eddosa confirmed there have been no direct ceasefire violations since March 12, 2024. He indicated increased collaboration between CTSAMVM and UNMISS to sustain monitoring and investigations.

“Our commitment to peace and stability in South Sudan remains unwavering. However, CTSAMVM has not witnessed additional deployments of the Necessary Unified Forces apart from the 6% out of the planned 83000 Necessary Unified Forces,” said Eddosa.