The People’s Coalition for Civil Action (PCCA) criticized IGAD for its misguided assessment of the R-ARCSS as the foundation of peace in South Sudan. PCCA highlights ongoing conflicts, political crises, and public dissatisfaction, calling for urgent reforms. They advocate for a revised approach that includes dismantling militias and establishing an inclusive political dialogue for a constitutional agreement and elections.
The People’s Coalition for Civil Action (PCCA) expressed significant dissatisfaction with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) regarding its report and communiqué from the 43rd Extraordinary Summit concerning South Sudan. PCCA highlighted concerns over IGAD’s assertion that the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) is the foundation of peace in the nation, claiming such statements are not only incorrect but detrimental to genuine efforts for peace and stability in South Sudan.
PCCA cited various issues, questioning the validity of the R-ARCSS as a cornerstone of peace, based on the ongoing violations, such as President Kiir’s unilateral dismissals and military defections. They noted the lack of peace, as seen by the continued displacement of refugees and internally displaced persons, further commenting that the R-ARCSS is perceived by the ordinary citizens as a dire situation.
The Coalition criticized recent violence in Nasir as indicative of frustrations with the R-ARCSS, calling into question IGAD’s involvement, which appears to be linked to the impact of violence on political elites and UN officials. They challenge IGAD’s claim regarding the effectiveness of the R-ARCSS in reducing conflict, asserting that it has failed to deliver peace and improved conditions for governance or transition in South Sudan.
The PCCA stated that the decision to create a Ministerial Sub-Committee on South Sudan fails to address the crisis’s root causes, clarifying that effective engagement requires a clear mandate and roadmap. They expressed skepticism about the impact of such a sub-committee, deeming the existing regional bodies ineffective and questioning the necessity of new committees.
According to PCCA, ongoing turmoil in South Sudan stems from succession politics rather than issues surrounding the R-ARCSS. They highlighted rumors of President Kiir’s potential resignation and Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel’s ascension, suggesting that these political maneuvers require immediate attention rather than fixation on outdated agreements.
PCCA urged IGAD to recognize that South Sudan’s challenges extend beyond the R-ARCSS and warned against overlooking critical threats to the nation’s stability. They advocated for a shift in political discourse to focus on urgent national dialogue, whereby both Kiir and Machar step away, allowing for a more inclusive approach to governance and constitutional restructuring.
The coalition underscored that South Sudan’s political future hinges on dismantling privatized militias to form a unified national army and promoting a national political roundtable toward a new constitutional agreement. They warned that continued reliance on ineffective political transitions could lead to national disintegration and broader regional instability, urging prompt action for a better future.
In conclusion, the People’s Coalition for Civil Action has articulated strong criticisms of IGAD’s assessment of the South Sudan situation, challenging the effectiveness of the R-ARCSS and its role in promoting peace. Their stance underscores the urgent need for a reevaluation of approaches to South Sudan’s political landscape, advocating for a dialogue that acknowledges contemporary realities and prioritizes national unity and stability. For lasting peace, a shift from outdated frameworks to a comprehensive, inclusive political dialogue is essential.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
