PCCA Critiques IGAD’s Approach to South Sudan’s Peace Process

The People’s Coalition for Civil Action criticizes IGAD for inaccuracies regarding the R-ARCSS, arguing it fails to serve as the cornerstone of peace in South Sudan. The PCCA indicates rising unrest and calls for a national dialogue, condemning the vague proposals set forth by IGAD as insufficient for addressing crucial issues. They advocate for the political restructuring necessary for lasting stability in the region.

The People’s Coalition for Civil Action (PCCA) has expressed significant discontent with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) following the Executive Secretary’s report to the 43rd Extraordinary Summit concerning South Sudan. In a recent statement, PCCA highlighted its disapproval of claims made in the communiqué, including the assertion that the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) serves as the cornerstone for peace.

PCCA strongly contests the validity of these claims, arguing that the R-ARCSS is not a true foundation for peace in South Sudan. The organization pointed to reports from IGAD’s Revitalized Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission, which highlight the agreement’s numerous violations, including President Kiir’s unilateral dismissals and military defections amidst an ongoing lack of unified command within the armed forces.

The coalition insists the R-ARCSS has not only failed to bring peace but has also severely weakened the nation’s economy, obstructing necessary political progression. They argue that the notion of the agreement being a cornerstone for peace undermines the suffering experienced by the South Sudanese populace, reflecting a disconnect between IGAD’s statements and the reality on the ground.

The recent violence in Nasir represents a culmination of frustrations regarding the R-ARCSS, with similar unrest noted across various regions in South Sudan. PCCA argues that the factors leading to chaos are tied to political elite struggles and rumors surrounding President Kiir’s potential departure, complicating the narrative presented by IGAD.

Moreover, the PCCA criticized IGAD’s proposal to establish a Ministerial-level subcommittee, deeming its vague mandate inadequate to address deep-rooted issues. They believe that merely fostering engagement without addressing the underlying causes of instability will not lead to sustainable peace.

PCCA perceives this assessment not as an assault on IGAD but as a call for regional leaders to reevaluate how they address the dire situations impacting South Sudan. Furthermore, they argue that both the R-ARCSS and Tumaini Initiative have become obsolete in tackling emerging political challenges.

The coalition advocates for a nationwide roundtable dialogue, urging the ousting of key political figures to allow for a more inclusive governance framework. They warned that any delay in executing these changes risks escalating chaos and leading South Sudan toward disintegration and potential regional turmoil.

In conclusion, if IGAD aims to play a constructive role, it should focus on dismantling private militias and facilitating a national dialogue that could steer South Sudan toward a constitutional agreement and timely elections. The PCCA is committed to fostering a peaceful and democratic society in South Sudan through nonviolent means, and it calls for urgent action to stabilize the nation.

The PCCA unequivocally criticizes IGAD’s portrayal of the R-ARCSS as the foundation of peace in South Sudan, arguing that it neglects tangible issues facing the country. They demand a shift towards addressing the underlying political dynamics and advocate for a complete reevaluation of strategies to promote genuine peace. It emphasizes that without comprehensive dialogue and actionable strategies, the risk of further conflict and national disintegration remains high.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org