Troika and EU urge S. Sudan to protect aid workers, speed up peace deal
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Diplomats from the European Union, Canada, France, Germany and Troika have called on the government to shield humanitarian workers from violence and speed up the implementation of key chapters of the 2018 peace deal.
The diplomats are calling on President Salva Kiir and FVP Dr Riek Machar and other VPs to embrace the call to action by ensuring that pending chapters of the peace accord are implemented.
‘‘As we approach 10-year anniversary of independence, the time is right for all South Sudan’s leaders to come together address the multiple challenges that are facing their people. Decisions and actions made by the unified government, made in the best interests of the people of South Sudan, will help to achieve original objectives of independence,’’ the diplomats said in a statement April 23, adding ‘we praise South Sudan’s continued courage, strength and patience to pursue the vision.’
Part of the 12-point demands was the immediate investigation and arrest of criminals who attacked humanitarian workers in states like Ruweng.
‘‘Take immediate and effective measures to protect humanitarian workers and enable sustained and unhindered access for their efforts to provide relief for those who are experiencing food insecurity and other humanitarian needs,’’ the statement further reads.
They also want the national government to engage the governors to ensure that the perpetrators of such attacks are brought to book. They want the government to explore diplomatic means where necessary to bring about calm in the areas experiencing such conflicts.
Implementation of the deal
In addition, the diplomats have urged the presidency to speed up the implementation of the 2018 peace deal. Some of the key areas mentioned in the statement addressed to the South Sudanese leadership included the adherence with the 35 per cent gender rule principle in the appointments, ending ceasefire and ensuring cessation of hostilities, establishing a proper justice system and demonstrating accountability in the use of resources.
They also want the initiation of the constitution-making process and the graduation of the unified forces.
The group of envoys comprised Canadian Ambassador to South Sudan Jenny Hill, EU Special Representative for Horn of Africa Alexander Rondos, French Special Envoy to South Sudan Jean-Michel Domund, Norwegian Special Envoy Endre Stiansen (UK) and Donald Booth (US) among many others.
