The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) on Tuesday convened a sensitization workshop on the revitalized peace agreement for the Reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly (RTNLA) of South Sudan.
Speaking at the opening of the workshop in Juba, RJMEC Interim Chairperson, ambassador Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai said it is imperative for the RTNLA to prioritize and focus on the legislative preparations for constitutional making and elections processes.
He said the constitution and elections are essential requirements of the deal for transitioning the country to a democratic dispensation.
“I wish to underscore to you as members of the RTNLA, the importance of a people-led and people-owned Permanent Constitution, which will be the cornerstone of the state of South Sudan, preparing the way for a smooth transition through free, fair and credible elections,” remarked Gituai.
He urged MPs to ensure appropriate and timely legislation that will hasten the achievement of the election process within the timelines.
“As the legislative arm of government, I take this opportunity to remind you of the critical role your institution plays in ensuring that the necessary legislation is enacted to enable this process to commence expeditiously,” stressed the Interim Chairperson of the peace body.
He added, “Time is now of the essence. There is anxiety amongst the parties to the R-ARCSS and peace partners regarding how the outstanding tasks of the R-ARCSS shall be expeditiously implemented within the remaining period of the transition.”
The Interim Chairperson called on the parties to the peace agreement to continue to build on the peace dividends made so far, adhere to their commitments to peace, take steps to restore broken relationships, build trust and confidence among yourselves, turn a new page; and inculcate the necessary political will which shall move the country forward towards enduring peace and stability.
The workshop, bringing together the first batch of the 550 RTNLA members, is geared to familiarise the members on the content of the peace agreement and also provide updates on the current status of its implementation.
“It is therefore important for you, as national leaders, to have a better and common understanding of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, get clarity on critical content-related questions and issues surrounding its implementation, and provide it with full support,” noted Gituai.
Source: Sudan Tribune