In a significant step towards determining the future of South Sudan’s political transition, the leadership of the High-Level Standing Committee on the RoadMap and the National Transitional Committee, along with top members of political parties, have signed a comprehensive report.
The report details the progress and challenges in implementing the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
Hon. Tut Gatluak, Adviser of the President of Security Affairs said the report, which compiles recommendations and findings from key electoral and security institutions, will now be submitted to the Presidency for a crucial decision on whether to proceed with elections in December 2024 or extend the transitional period.
The committee members include representatives from signatories of the peace agreement, namely the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Government (SPLM-IG), Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA), Other Political Parties (OPP), and the Former Detainees (FDs).
Their report outlines the tasks accomplished and identifies critical areas that remain incomplete under the provisions of the agreement.
According to officials familiar with the contents of the report, several key tasks were outlined by the National Constitution Review Commission, National Bureau of Statistics, and Political Parties Council.
It also includes the National Elections Commission and the Security Mechanisms—including the Joint Military Ceasefire Commission (JMCC) and the Joint Defence Board—that have not yet been fully implemented.
These gaps, particularly in security and electoral preparations, have raised concerns about the feasibility of holding credible elections by the scheduled date.
Hon. Tut Gatluak, Adviser of the President of Security Affairs said their report emphasizes that while some progress has been made, significant challenges remain, including delays in the implementation of crucial security arrangements and the review of the national constitution.
Hon, Tut said the members of the High-Level Standing Committee and the National Transitional Committee are expected to present the final report to the Presidency in the coming days.
It will be up to the Presidency to make a decisive political judgment on whether the country is ready for elections or if an extension of the transitional period is necessary to fully implement the peace agreement.
The upcoming decision by the Presidency is anticipated to be a pivotal moment in South Sudan’s path to long-term stability, with the potential to either solidify the peace process through democratic elections or provide more time for institutional reforms and peace agreement implementation.
As the nation awaits the decision, the political atmosphere remains tense, with hopes that the leadership will prioritize peace, unity, and the well-being of the people.
