South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislative Assembly on Monday adjourned debate on a report by the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) regarding the implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, citing the absence of RJMEC representatives.
RJMEC, an oversight body established to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement, had submitted its quarterly report to Parliament in April, urging renewed commitment to the peace deal and outlining several resolutions directed at the signatory parties.
The report called for adherence to the permanent ceasefire and the Transitional Security Arrangements. It also urged lawmakers to pass key legislation, including the National Audit Chamber Bill and the NGO Amendment Bill, to safeguard civic and political space ahead of upcoming elections.
“Restore adherence to the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements, and refrain from acts of violence,” the report read. “Collaborate with CTSAMVM to enable it to investigate, verify and report findings on pending allegations of violations of the ceasefire.”
Speaker Jemma Nunu Kumba referred the report to the Committee on Peace and Reconciliation for further scrutiny, noting it would only return to the floor for debate once RJMEC representatives are present to respond to lawmakers’ questions.
“They [RJMEC] presented to the House, and it was committed to the committee,” Kumba said. “The day it is being presented [for debate], they have to be there also. That’s how it has been happening.”
Kumba added that other key institutions, including the National Transitional Committee, should also be present during the debate.
Lawmakers backed the Speaker’s position. MP Omuho Victor Ohide said it was critical to have the monitors in the chamber to provide clarity.
“I stand to support the procedure put forward by the Right Honourable Speaker, because that is our practice,” Ohide said. “Even the Ministry of Peace should be here. When there arise questions, who is going to answer those questions?”
No new date was set for the resumption of the debate.