Communication Office

PRESS RELEASE

(For Immediate Publication)

Wednesday, 22 April, 2026, South Sudan

RJMEC RELEASES ITS LATEST QUARTERLY REPORT, CALLS FOR URGENT CESSATION OF HOSTILITIES AND INCLUSIVE DIALOGUE IN SOUTH SUDAN

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) today, 22 April 2026, released its Quarterly Report on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), covering the period 1 January to 31 March 2026.

Prepared pursuant to Article 7.9 of the R-ARCSS, the report observes that implementation registered minimal progress during the reporting period, amid persistent political tensions, continued ceasefire violations, and a worsening humanitarian situation.

The report documents ongoing violations of the Permanent Ceasefire between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO), as well as allied forces, despite repeated calls for de-escalation and dialogue. The report further notes that the Ceasefire & Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring Mechanism (CTSAMVM) recorded 133 alleged violations during the quarter, including armed clashes, crimes against civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, forced displacement, and occupation of civilian areas by armed forces.

“Progress on key transitional benchmarks and reforms remained slow, constrained by limited time, capacity gaps, and funding shortfalls. To halt further deterioration and restore confidence in the peace process, there is an urgent need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, coupled with the commencement of an inclusive dialogue in line with the AU C5 Plus Declaration,” the further notes.

“Without these steps, the risk of further political fragmentation, and renewed large‑scale violence will continue to increase, with serious implications for national and regional stability,” it adds.

Additionally, the report cites deep concern regarding the prevailing political and security challenges affecting implementation of the R-ARCSS, underscoring the urgency of preventing further deterioration.

“Continued clashes threaten civilian protection and humanitarian access, while undermining confidence in the R-ARCSS as the primary framework for peace and stability. Without a sustained cessation of hostilities, progress on governance reforms, electoral preparations, and transitional justice remains fragile and reversible.”

The report also highlights a growing deficit of political trust among key actors. It notes that unilateral actions, limited consultation, and recurring confrontations have weakened the consensus-based foundations of the Agreement.“In this context, the need for an inclusive political dialogue has become increasingly pronounced. Such dialogue is essential to de-escalate tensions and address unresolved political issues that continue to impede the transition. The absence of structured and inclusive engagement risks entrenching polarization and narrowing the political space at a time when broad participation is critical,” the report emphasizes.

 The report concludes with targeted recommendations addressed to the Parties to the Agreement, the Executive of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU), the Transitional National Legislature, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union (AU), the United Nations (UN), and International P artners.

 Key recommendations include cessation of hostilities and renewed commitment to the full implementation of outstanding tasks; an urgent genuine inclusive political dialogue; strict adherence to amendment procedures under the R-ARCSS; accelerated security sector reforms; strengthened oversight and accountability mechanisms; enhanced protection of civilians and humanitarian access; and the provision of adequate, predictable, and sustained funding for institutions supporting the transition and preparations for elections.

THE FULL REPORT: 

ENDS