Michael J. Adler, U.S. Ambassador to South Sudan, delivered a statement on behalf of the Troika—comprising the United States, the United Kingdom, and Norway—during a meeting of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) on February 20, 2025.
Adler extended well-wishes to Interim Chair Ambassador Charles Tai Gituai as he returns to Kenya and expressed best wishes for Ambassador George Aggrey Owinow as he assumes his role as the new RJMEC chair.
In his address, Adler highlighted concerns over the lack of progress in implementing commitments made under the 2018 peace agreement. He noted that despite numerous RJMEC meetings underscoring this issue, significant advancements have not been realized.
The transitional government's announcement last September of another extension was met with disappointment but not surprise by those attending these monthly gatherings. "Indeed, almost seven years after the signing of the peace agreement," Adler stated, "we see continued failure of political will on the part of its signatories to bring the transitional period to a peaceful and successful conclusion."
Adler further remarked on issues such as unpaid salaries eroding public security and services, deteriorating living standards, and clashes between forces linked to agreement signatories in regions like Western Equatoria and Upper Nile.
He urged all parties involved in the agreement to urgently implement their commitments without delay: "There is no more time to waste." He emphasized that recent extensions have seen no action toward fostering conditions necessary for peaceful elections or enhancing civic space.
The ambassador called for amendments to allow freedom from arbitrary detentions by South Sudan's National Security Service and insisted that public revenue be utilized transparently for essential services like health and education.
Despite challenges posed by conflicts affecting oil pipelines, Adler pointed out that financial resources remain available if there is political will: "Peace is our priority in South Sudan." He concluded by urging honesty among those monitoring progress at RJMEC meetings.