UN says deployment of South Sudan peace forces behind schedule

JUBA, MARCH 3, 2023 (SUDANS POST) – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan on Thursday said the deployment of the country’s recently graduated Necessary Unified Forces (NUF) is far behind the time frame earmarked for in transitional period.

Speaking during R-JMEC monthly meeting held in Juba on Thursday, Mr. Guang Cong, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General said the deployment of Necessary Unified Forces and commencement of phase two is behind the roadmap stated in timelines.

“While I acknowledge the efforts to ensure the completion of Phase 1 of the graduation of the Necessary Unified Forces, the deployment of the graduated forces and commencement of Phase II are already behind the roadmap stated timelines,” said Cong.

Cong called on the parties to finalize a formula for the harmonization of ranks and structures of the military.

“I therefore call on the parties to finalize a formula for the harmonization of ranks and structures, welfare and deployment of the graduated troops, and commence Phase II as soon as possible.”

He stressed the need to expedite key benchmarks contained in recently extended the roadmap.

“To meet key benchmarks contained in the roadmap, it is important to expedite the work. This means that the constitution-making process should start as soon as possible so that South Sudanese have the opportunity to participate and provide input for a new social contract with the Government that reflects their priorities and aspirations,” he said.

“This will also be a critical barometer for civic and political space,” he added.