South Sudan: Troika Statement On the Anniversary of the Juba Peace Agreement

Celebrations at the signing of the Sudan Peace Agreement in Juba, South Sudan, on October 3, 2020 (Allan Chekwech/Daily Monitor)

The United States, the United Kingdom, and Norway (the Troika) commend the Sudanese people as they celebrate the first anniversary of the signing of Juba Peace Agreement (JPA) on October 3, 2020. This historic agreement responds to the Sudanese people's calls for freedom, peace, and justice, especially from those affected by conflict across Sudan. We commend the JPA signatories for upholding their partnership and urge the parties to recommit to fully implement the agreement.

The Troika applauds the strides made toward transitional justice including the government's cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC). We welcome the Cabinet's stated commitment to hand over former President Omar al-Bashir and the other former officials subject to international arrest warrants, and we urge the government to move quickly on this commitment and to make progress on establishing the Special Court for Darfur. Due legal process will help give justice to victims and support the process for reconciliation.

We are, however, deeply concerned by delays implementing commitments made one year ago. This includes in establishing the Peace Commission, Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanism, the Transitional Legislative Assembly, and establishing the Darfur Security Keeping Forces and JPA security arrangements. Progress is needed now. We urge all JPA signatories to demonstrate leadership and work together to refocus on implementation to deliver much needed peace and security for the people. Special efforts should be made to meet the ambitious goals set in the Constitutional Declaration and JPA for the involvement of women.

The Troika is disappointed with the lack of momentum in peace negotiations with the SPLM-N-Abdelaziz Alhilu. We urge Chairman Alhilu and the Government of Sudan to return to Juba and negotiate on the basis of the March 2021 Declaration of Principles. Lastly, the Troika notes with concern the growing unrest in Eastern Sudan and condemns all actions that threaten Sudan's stability and economy. We encourage the government and all Eastern parties to engage in dialogue to address legitimate grievances on the basis of the Constitutional Declaration and the JPA.

The Troika remains committed to supporting the Government of Sudan and the JPA parties to deliver their vision for lasting peace as part of the democratic transition agreed in 2019.

Sustainable peace will require dedicated Sudanese-led efforts to implement the JPA in a timely manner so all can benefit from equitable development, a new constitution, equal citizenship, and the opportunity to choose a democratically elected government. The Troika looks forward to continuing our support to the parties and all Sudanese in the realization of a lasting peace.