A civil society Activist has warned the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU) over the continuous suspension of commissioners from Opposition parties in the peace agreement.
According to the statement extended to the Media, Ter Manyang the Executive Director for The Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), expressed that continuous suspension of the opposition leaders without the consultation is a violation of the peace agreement.
“The Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), an advocacy organization, has warned about the frequent suspensions of Opposition Commissioners by state governors. This trend undermines the implementation of the R-ARCSS and threatens the survival of the peace agreement” Ter said.
“Articles 1.16 and 1.16.1 of the R-ARCSS clearly outline the responsibility-sharing ratio that must be maintained at the state and local government levels” he added.
The activist appealed to the state governors to focus on the interpretation of the law to ensure that suspension of any leader from any party to the peace agreement is inline with the peace agreement.
“There is a need for complete interpretation before any Governor makes a decision that could lead to negative feedback from their communities. Commissioners, as the heads of counties, are responsible for maintaining peace and security” he said.
He added that creating a leadership vacuum and wrangles at the counties remain a challenge that would necessary or likely to arise cases of conflict in the area.
The Activist added that during the governors it was emphasized that Governors should initiate programs that foster peace and reconciliation among the people.
Activist Ter concern came at the time the 2018 peace agreement continue to face a lot of challenges such armed confrontation between parties and the house arrest of Dr. Riek Machar.
It also came at the time members and postholders of the Sudan People Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) which the major Opposition continue to face dismissal without suspension in South part of the country.
On April 4, 2025, Gen. James Koang Chuol, the Governor of Upper Nile State, suspended Hon. James Gatluak Lew Thiep, the commissioner of Nasir County, without providing a clear reason, a move that was rejected by the opposition.
Similarly, Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok of Jonglei State suspended Hon. Puok Nyang Tutjiek, the commissioner of Akobo County, on April 17, 2025, also without a stated reason.
On April 22, 2025, Gen. James Koang Chuol suspended Hon. Riek Gai Galuak, the commissioner of Ulang County, again without offering a clear rationale.
On April 23, 2025, in Lakes State, Gen. Rin Tueny Mabor has summoned Deng Mario Deng, the SPLM-IO-appointed commissioner of Cueibet County, to report to the state headquarters in Rumbek.