Teshome urges successor to keep close ‘eyes on ceasefire’
The outgoing Chairperson of the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements, Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), Maj. Gen. Teshome Gemechu Aderie has urged his successor, Lt. Gen. Asrat Denero Amad to ensure the successful implementation of the peace agreement
Teshome expressed confidence in the board members of the monitoring body and called on them to work hand in hand with the new Chairman and strive for the successful implementation of the peace process in South Sudan.
He made these remarks during the 29th board meeting on Wednesday in Juba.
Maj. Gen Teshome said he arrived in the country and assumed the leadership of the monitoring body in January 2020, the board had examined and discussed several issues pertaining to the peace process.
“During my two years’ chairmanship at the CTSAMVM, many important recommendations and decisions have been made through critical analysis of the fact on the ground. You have been using all the available means including a field visit to ensure that all decisions are evidence-based,” he said.
“You never flinched in the face of difficult decisions. All these efforts are characteristic reflections of your strong commitment to the peace process. As a result, together we were able to make a difference and I would like to pass my sincere gratitude to all the board members,” Maj. Gen. Teshome added.
The former CTSAMVM chair said the peace process was at a critical point and that the dynamics of the security environment and the spectrum of tasks in the remaining phase of the peace agreement implementation are going to make operations of the monitoring body far more complex.
“I am confident that with the leadership of this board, CTSAMVM will pass the challenge with success. I am as well confident for this board to continue working hand in hand with the new Chairman and strive for the successful implementation of the peace process of this nation,” Maj. Gen. Teshome added.
The incumbent Chairperson of the monitoring body Lt. Gen Asrat Denero appreciated Maj. Gen. Teshome for his efforts and dedication in transforming the mechanism to the level it is today.
Denero said since he took over the office from Maj Gen Teshome on February 22, 2022, CTSAMVM has been concerned over permanent ceasefire in the country.
“Pertaining to the very critical issue of the permanent ceasefire, there is a concern that the Ceasefire is under pressure and could be fracturing,” he said.
He added that there are areas where it is apparently being undermined, pointing at the fighting in Torkech, Upper Nile State, between alleged SSPDF-aligned Kit Gwang and SPLM/A-IO forces, clashes in Upper Nile State between SPLM/A-IO forces and armed youth at Turu. The SPLM/A-IO allege that the SSPDF forces of Maj. Gen. Ochan were involved. And, the fighting in the Mir-Mir area in Unity State.
