By Gladys Fred Kole
Troika countries, the United States of America, United Kingdom, and Norway are concerned over lack of seriousness in South Sudan’s unity government to expedite implementation of revitalized peace.
The members raised their concerns a meeting where the US Department of State hosted Norwegian and the UK special envoys to discuss Sudan and South Sudan’s political developments.
They discussed South Sudan and the transitional government’s lack of progress toward fulfilling its peace agreement.
The US, UK, and Norway agreed on the urgent need for the transitional government to meet its commitments in implementing the revitalized agreement without delay.
“These include taking all steps necessary to complete the deployment of the Necessary Unified forces as well as preparation for free, fair, and peaceful elections,” the Troika noted in their statement.
Along with the State Department’s Sanctions Coordinator, the special envoys also deliberated on the transitional government’s failure to manage the country’s oil revenue transparently.
Troika also cast obscurity on companies and associations operating in or providing services to companies in South Sudan’s oil sector.
Top on the meeting agenda was the ongoing war in Sudan and the need for coordinated international pressure to stop the fighting, protect civilians, and ensure unhindered humanitarian access.
“Noting the arrival of more than 130,000 people who have fled conflict in Sudan into South Sudan since April 15, the Troika urges the transitional government to provide and facilitate support for them,” the statement added.
Troika condemned the widespread human rights violations, conflict-related sexual violence, and targeted ethnic violence in Sudan’s Darfur region, attributed to Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias.
In April 2023, the Troika called on South Sudan’s leaders to focus on meeting their commitments to completing the transitional period and ushering in a permanent, elected government.
The US, Norway, and UK made the remarks at the monthly plenary of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission.
Troika nations said time is flying despite President Kiir’s statement that there would be no more extensions and elections would be held as scheduled.
They said for the transitional government to match the President’s words, there must be tangible action to complete the constitution-making process and hold credible elections.