Sudan’s peace process and democratic transition: Troika statement
Statement from the UK, Norway and USA on the anniversary of the Juba Peace Agreement signing urging progress as part of Sudan’s transition to democracy.
The United States, the United Kingdom, and Norway (the Troika) commend the Sudanese people as they celebrate the first anniversary of the signing of Juba Peace Agreement (JPA) on 3 October 2020. This historic agreement responds to the Sudanese people’s calls for freedom, peace and justice, especially from those affected by conflict across Sudan as part of the democratic transition. We commend the JPA signatories for upholding their partnership but urge them to recommit to implement the agreement in full.
The Troika applaud the strides made in transitional justice as part of the JPA, including co-operation with the International Criminal Court (ICC), commitment to hand over former President Omar Al Bashir and others subject to international arrest warrants, and progress on establishing the Special Court for Darfur. Due legal process will help to give justice to victims and start the process for reconciliation as part of the JPA and 2019 Constitutional Declaration.
We are however deeply concerned by delays implementing commitments made one year ago. This includes in establishing the Peace Commission, Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanism, the Transitional Legislative Assembly, and establishing the Darfur Security Keeping Forces and JPA security arrangements. Progress is needed now. We urge all JPA signatories to demonstrate leadership and work together to refocus on implementation to deliver much needed peace and security for ordinary people. Special efforts should be made to meet the ambitious goals set in the Constitutional Declaration and JPA for the involvement of women.
The Troika is also disappointed with the loss of momentum in peace talks with the SPLM-N (Abdelaziz al-Hilu). We urge both sides to return to talks in Juba and negotiate on the basis of the March 2021 Declaration of Principles. The Troika note with concern the growing unrest in Eastern Sudan and condemn actions that threaten Sudan’s stability and economy. We encourage all parties to engage in dialogue to address legitimate grievances on the basis of the 2019 Constitutional Declaration and the JPA.
The Troika remain committed to supporting the Government of Sudan and the JPA parties to deliver their vision for lasting peace as part of the democratic transition agreed in 2019. Sustainable peace will require consistent and dedicated Sudanese-led efforts to implement the JPA. Our hope remains that this will be done so in a timely manner so all Sudanese can benefit from equitable development, a new constitution, equal citizenship, and the opportunity to choose a democratically elected government. The Troika looks forward to continuing our support to the parties and all Sudanese in that vision and the realisation of a lasting peace.
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