South Sudan peace monitors accused of prioritizing comfort over mandate  

JUBA – A member of South Sudan’s ceasefire monitoring body, the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), has ignited controversy by accusing the organization of prioritizing its own well-being over its core mandate.

This comes amidst CTSAMVM’s recent announcement of staff reductions due to budget constraints.

Maj. Gen. Chuol Ruey who represents the main armed opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) in the CTSAMVM Technical Committee (CTC), voiced his concerns during a meeting of the organization yesterday.

He emphasized the crucial role of the CTC in future CTSAMVM operations, urging the monitoring body to acknowledge their input and collaboration.

“CTSAMVM seems to prioritize its own welfare, forgetting the reasons why we here for. It was established basically to monitor peace agreements that brought together all the stakeholders,” he said.

“For any future references, CTSAMVM should also pay attention to such important body,” he added.

The SPLM-IO representative further highlighted the CTC’s contribution to the recent revision of the CTSAMVM terms of reference, emphasizing their ongoing role in shaping the organization’s future.

“We know this process much has been approved then the revising it would also be there. And we should not forget that the CTC members will have a say in this term of reference the next time,” he added.

While CTSAMVM has yet to officially respond to General Ruey’s accusations, their announced downsizing due to funding limitations adds fuel to the fire.

The apparent clash between prioritizing CTSAMVM’s operations and ensuring its staff’s well-being raises concerns about the organization’s ability to effectively fulfill its vital role in South Sudan’s fragile peace process.