R-JMEC Accepts SPLM-IO’s New Representatives Amid Political Tensions

JUBA – The Revitalized Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC) has formally approved the appointment of new SPLM-IO representatives, marking a significant development in South Sudan’s peace process.

Leadership Changes in SPLM-IO Representation

R-JMEC acknowledged the replacement of Hon. Stephen Par Kuol and Hon. Gatwech Lam Pouch with Hon. Martin Abucha Gama and Ms. Yolanda Awel Deng as the opposition party’s new representatives to the peace monitoring body.

Reasons for the Replacements

The changes were initiated by SPLM-IO Deputy Chairman Hon. Oyet Nathaniel Pierino, currently in exile. In an April 7 letter to R-JMEC, Oyet explained:

• Hon. Stephen Par Kuol was suspended by the party and can no longer represent SPLM-IO
• Hon. Gatwech Lam Pouch is allegedly “illegally detained” by National Security Service

R-JMEC’s Official Response

Interim Chairperson Ambassador George Aggrey confirmed receipt of the appointments in a formal response to Hon. Oyet, stating:

“The Revitalized Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC) presents its compliments to your excellency and acknowledges receipt and takes note of your letter… appointing Hon. Martin Abucha Gama and Mrs. Yolanda Awel Deng as new members.”

Political Context

The leadership changes occur amid an internal SPLM-IO split, with a breakaway faction declaring Par Kuol as interim chairman in Juba. Oyet has strongly condemned this move, calling on peace agreement guarantors to protect the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.

About R-JMEC

As the oversight body for South Sudan’s peace agreement implementation, R-JMEC:

• Monitors compliance with the R-ARCSS peace deal
• Reports on progress and challenges during the transitional period

Recent Developments

The mechanism recently postponed its 40th plenary meeting scheduled for April 10, citing “unforeseen circumstances.” This delay has raised concerns among diplomatic missions in Juba, who are urging R-JMEC to convene urgently to address growing political tensions.