Abraham Awolich, activist and co-founder of PCCA, emphasized the group’s focus on good governance, not personal gain.
“The PCCA and its leadership is on the table seeking no political power, no money or fame. We are on the table seeking a constitutional agreement that returns power to the people of South Sudan,” Awolich said in a statement extended to Sudans Post.
Awolich called for a restructured government and military, arguing it’s crucial for the country’s progress. He proposed returning the military to civilian oversight, protecting all citizens, and ending its “privatization” under warlords.
“The time has come to reconsider the idea of presidential guards. This idea does not work in a democracy, it is designed for authoritarian regimes,” Awolich said.
He advocated for integrating the Tiger Division back into the regular army and establishing an independent agency under the Interior Ministry for VIP protection.
Emphasizing a need for genuine reform, Awolich stated, “We are not in a hurry to sign another fake agreement. The PCCA is for real reforms, not cosmetic theatrics that have been seen over the last decade.”
The PCCA, a coalition of civil society groups, launched a public campaign in August 2021 demanding political change.
Government security agencies quickly rushed in and arrested some of its members including former government of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State Kuel Aguer Kuel who was detained for nearly two years but was released by a local court for lack of in December 2022.
Kuel, who has been denied from seeking medication abroad, eventually left the country and joined the Nairobi peace talks this week.
Other members of the PCCA who had fled the country, are currently in Nairobi. They include Awolich himself, Wani Michael, and Rajab Mohandis.