Machar’s Detention Stalls Peace Implementation: Peace Monitors

By Awan Achiek

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) stated on Monday that the detention of Dr. Riek Machar, First Vice President and leader of the main opposition group SPLM-IO, has hindered the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement.

While presenting its quarterly report before the assembly, Amb. Maj. Gen. Aggrey George Owinow, Interim Chairperson of  RJMEC, said that the detention of Machar and several key SPLM-IO officials has negatively affected the implementation process of the 2018 peace deal.

“In terms of governance under Chapter I of the R-ARCSS, the ongoing house arrest of Dr. Riek Machar Teny, First Vice President and Chairperson of the SPLM/A-IO, along with the detention of several senior SPLM/A-IO officials—including key members of Agreement institutions—has adversely affected the implementation process,” Gen. George said.

He explained that the lack of direct communication between party leadership exacerbates mistrust and unresolved issues, which continue to obstruct the effective implementation of the peace agreement.

“RJEMC appeals to this August Assembly to safeguard the interests and sanctity of the Revitalised Peace Agreement and urge the peace process to adhere to its letter and spirit,” he added.

He called on all parties to the 2018 peace pact to urgently observe the permanent ceasefire and refrain from acts of violence.

“RJEMC urges parties to the R-ARCSS to refrain from all actions that escalate tension and to demonstrate leadership,” he said.

The retired Kenyan general emphasised the need for parties to engage in dialogue and return to the inclusive implementation of the agreement to guide the country towards stability and prosperity.

“Engage with national leaders to urgently resolve the issue of the detained leaders and those in hiding, enabling them to participate effectively in the implementation of R-ARCSS.”

He warned that the 2018 peace agreement is at risk of collapse, citing deepening political mistrust among the signatory parties.

“This August House, representing all parties to the R-ARCSS, must lead efforts to uphold the agreement and steer a path back to peace and stability.”

Machar has been under house arrest since March, accused of supporting the White Army militia, which clashed with the military in Nasir, Upper Nile State, resulting in the death of Gen. Majur Dak and several soldiers.

Machar’s party denies any ongoing links with the White Army, which it fought alongside during the war.

President Salva Kiir Mayardit suspended Dr. Riek Machar Teny, leader of the main opposition group SPLM-IO, last week after he and his key allies were charged with murder, conspiracy, terrorism, destruction of public property and military assets, and crimes against humanity by the Ministry of Justice.

The charges arise from a violent incident in March when a militia known as the White Army overran a garrison of government troops in Nasir County, Upper Nile, killing its commanding officer, Gen. Majur Dak, and several soldiers.

The Justice Ministry asserted that the attack in Nasir was influenced by Machar and others through “coordinated military and political structures.”