PCCA Critiques IGAD’s Handling of South Sudan Conflict, Calls for New Dialogue

The People’s Coalition for Civil Action (PCCA) has condemned IGAD for claiming that the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) is crucial for peace. PCCA argues the agreement has failed to address ongoing violence and seeks to shift focus to an inclusive political dialogue aimed at achieving stability and constitutional governance in South Sudan.

The People’s Coalition for Civil Action (PCCA) has criticized the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) for its recent report and communiqué regarding the situation in South Sudan. The PCCA expressed dismay at IGAD’s assertion that the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) is fundamental to the peace process, declaring such claims as false and harmful to the hope for genuine peace and stability in the nation.

PCCA emphasizes a lack of progress on the R-ARCSS, citing evidence from IGAD’s own Revitalized Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission reports which highlight ongoing failures to implement the agreement. They point out serious violations, including President Kiir’s unilateral dismissals of opposition officials and continued military defections, leading to more fragmented armed forces instead of a unified command. Furthermore, the persistent absence of peace is evident in the continued displacement of people and the lack of repatriation for refugees.

The coalition argues that the R-ARCSS is perceived by the South Sudanese populace as a trap that endangers their lives and futures. They question IGAD’s fixation on the agreement despite clear failures in achieving peace and conditions for political transition, stating that the implementation efforts have not reduced conflict or fostered stability, contrary to IGAD’s assertions.

PCCA notes that recent violence, particularly in Nasir, reflects the frustrations stemming from the inadequacies of the R-ARCSS. The latest turmoil underscores political unrest among the elites, suggesting the crisis is less about the agreement and more about succession politics, particularly concerning President Kiir’s possible transition of power to Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel.

According to PCCA, IGAD’s response, including the formation of a Ministerial-level sub-committee on South Sudan, lacks clarity and fails to pinpoint or address root causes of instability. They voiced concerns that the vague nature of the committee’s mandate will not instigate meaningful progress towards peace or stability, questioning the necessity of yet another ad-hoc committee under existing regional frameworks.

The coalition urges IGAD to confront the reality of South Sudan rather than perpetuate narratives that ignore the deeper issues at play. They contend that the R-ARCSS and the Tumaini Initiative are outdated in the face of evolving dynamics in South Sudan, which require proactive solutions rather than reliance on ineffective structures.

The PCCA advocates for a shift in focus, urging for an inclusive political roundtable that encompasses diverse voices within South Sudan, advocating for a constitutional agreement and a timeline for elections. They warn that ignoring the need for reform and continuing with failed political transitions could push the country toward disintegration, potentially destabilizing the entire region. They conclude that meaningful assistance from IGAD should center on the formation of a national army and an urgent call for political unity and transparent governance.

In conclusion, the People’s Coalition for Civil Action’s critique highlights serious inadequacies in IGAD’s approach to the South Sudan crisis. They argue that the R-ARCSS is not serving its intended purpose and that continued adherence to it may further undermine the peace process. The need for a new, inclusive political dialogue is paramount to establishing lasting peace and stability in South Sudan, and IGAD must adapt to the changing circumstances to fulfill its regional obligations effectively.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org