R-JMEC chief urges review of controversial security law

JUBA – The Revitalized Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has called on South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) to reconsider the recently passed National Security Service (NSS) Act.

RJMEC Chairperson Amb. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai made the appeal during a presentation of the commission’s quarterly report on the implementation of the peace agreement to the parliament on Wednesday.

“Participate in creating an enabling civic and political space including by considering amending the NSS Act to address the contentious provisions on arrests without warrants and detention of suspects,” Gituai advised.

Despite initial agreement from President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar to remove these contentious sections, the law was ultimately passed with them intact.

Gituai stressed the importance of completing the remaining tasks of the peace agreement, particularly the drafting of a permanent constitution and preparations for elections.

He also emphasized the need to create a conducive environment for political participation and civil liberties.

“At the same time, further opening up of civic and political space cannot be overemphasized, to provide an enabling environment for political participation by the general public, especially in the constitution-making and election processes,” Gituai said.

The RJMEC chair urged the TNLA to strengthen its oversight role and pressure the government to adhere to the implementation schedule.

He also encouraged the parties to embrace the Tumaini Initiative to bring in holdout groups and foster national reconciliation.