JUBA, 17 November 2016 [Gurtong] -JMEC Deputy Chairman, Ambassador Lt Gen. Augostino Njoroge, opened the two day workshop with the Joint Military Ceasefire Commission (JMCC) on the issue of the cantonment of security forces in South Sudan.

The workshop is being attended by JMCC Chairman, Lt Gen. James Ajongo Mawut (SPLA) and JMCC Deputy Chairman, Lt Gen.Gathoth Gatkuoth (SPLA/IO) in Juba today.

Amb. Njoroge said JMCC is constituted by Chapter II, Article 3.3 of the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (ARCSS), and is responsible for oversight and coordination of the cantonment process, as well as the return to barracks by the SPLA-IG.

“Cantonment within the context of the ARCSS in the current security environment will not be an easy task, and will require a tremendous amount of planning, coordination and cooperation within the parties” Amb. Njoroge stated.

“JMEC stands firmly behind the JMCC’s effort to begin cantonment operations and develop the future link to final security arrangements that include DDR and the integration of forces.”

“The only way forward for Cantonment and final security arrangements in South Sudan is through an inclusive ARCSS implementation process that caters to the needs and interests of all parties and stakeholders in South Sudan” Amb. Njoroge noted.

All parties are being called to lay down their weapons and engage in peaceful and inclusive implementation process that will enable a safe and effective cantonment process.