South Sudan Cabinet Approves Truth And Reparation Commissions

By Debora Akur Chol, South Sudan

The Council of Ministers on Friday, gave its approval to the Minister of Justice, Ruben Madol Arol, to begin the implementation of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation, and Healing Act (2024) and the Compensation and Reparation Act (2024).

Speaking to the press after the Cabinet meeting, Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth explained that although both acts were passed last year, they had not been activated due to additional requirements that needed to be addressed.

“These two commissions require foreign representation, and there are various institutions and stakeholders that need to be involved.

“The minister presented his request to the Cabinet to engage the relevant institutions, including the UN and the African Union,” Makuei said.

He further noted that the Cabinet granted the minister full authority to form a panel tasked with identifying board members and other key personnel to ensure the effective implementation of the two laws.

Makuei, who also serves as the government spokesperson, underscored that these laws were enacted as part of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), which mandates the establishment of such commissions to foster peace, security, and reparations for those affected by the conflict.

“The Cabinet approved the minister’s request and instructed him to move forward with the operationalization of these two acts,” Makuei concluded.

Cabinet Commends Security Forces’ Response to Protests

In a separate matter, Minister Makuei reported that Interior Minister Angelina Teny had briefed the Cabinet on protests that occurred on January 16 and 17, triggered by the deaths of South Sudanese nationals in Wad Madani, Sudan’s Al Jazira State.

Makuei stated that the Cabinet praised South Sudan’s security forces for their effective handling of the situation and restoration of order.

“Our security forces worked diligently to maintain control and protect lives and property. The Cabinet commends their efforts,” he said.

He also emphasised the important role of President Salva Kiir’s call for calm, which helped reduce tensions.

“The President’s appeal for restraint, urging the public to allow the government to manage the situation, quickly brought calm to the country.

“The Cabinet is thankful for the patience of the South Sudanese people and their decision not to take the law into their own hands,” Makuei added.

In terms of casualties, Makuei confirmed they were minimal. He noted that Sudanese nationals seeking protection in South Sudan were being offered options for their future.

“Those wishing to return home have already done so, while others have expressed their desire to leave South Sudan.

“This process will be carried out in accordance with international law. Some individuals are requesting repatriation to Sudan voluntarily, and the UN will facilitate this process,” he explained.

Makuei also mentioned that a plane from Khartoum had been sent to repatriate Sudanese nationals, but none chose to board, and the plane returned without passengers.

The situation remains under observation, but Makuei confirmed that it is currently stable.