By Otto Abut
The South Sudanese government has suggested integrating opposition groups into the implementation of the 2018 revitalized Peace Agreement through the Tumaini Initiative.
This proposal was made during ongoing discussions between the government delegation and the holdout groups in Nairobi, Kenya. Government spokesperson Elia Lumoro emphasized that opposition groups should be included in various key structures associated with the Tumaini Consensus to ensure their active participation in the peace process.
“The opposition groups will be incorporated into the structures of the RARCESS framework, which includes the army, the Joint Defense Board (JDB), the Joint Transitional Security Committee (JTSC), the Gender and Media Coordination Committee (GMCC), and the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), among others,” Lumoro stated.
He further emphasized that representatives from these opposition groups will also be included in the High-Level Standing Committee, a pivotal body for the peace agreement’s implementation. Additionally, the RJEMEC will also serve as a platform for their involvement.
Elia Lumoro clarified that the government is open to discussing the existing weaknesses in the implementation process, aiming to strengthen the system for more effective action. “We are committed to eliminating redundancies and contradictions in the agreements,” he noted. “Our goal is to ensure that all stakeholders, including opposition groups, are fully integrated into the process to avoid further conflicts and enhance the peace-building efforts.”
Lumoro urged the opposition to embrace what he called a “clean document,” stressing that the inclusion of opposition groups in the implementation process is crucial for resolving the conflict and promoting lasting peace in South Sudan.