Ceasefire Monitors, the Transitional Security Arrangement Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) on Tuesday expressed concerns of the slow pace of deployment and second phase training of the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF)
Speaking during a CTSAMVM Board Meeting in Juba, Maj Gen Yitayal Gelaw Bitew warned that the participation of the NUF during the election remains in question as little progress is made.
“The fate of using the Necessary Unified Forces for the anticipated general elections is narrow since deployment is at a slow pace, and the deployment of other organized forces and commencement of Phase Two training remains in balance. Cantonment Sites and Training Centers Commanders continue to report a very challenging situation with a lack of logistical supplies” he said.
“CTSAMVM has received information that two more Battalions of the Necessary Unified Forces have deployed, this is in addition to the 6 Battalions (3,777 personnel) of the Military as presented by the Head Secretariat of the Joint Defense Board during the 41st CTSAMVM Board meeting on 23rd April 2024. It makes a total of 8 Military Battalions deployed, other organized forces that graduated in Phase One have not yet been deployed” Gelaw said.
The CTSAMVM Chairman also expressed concerns over reports of recruitment by rebel forces of the National Salvation Front (NAS) and attacks in Central Equatoria State.
“CTSAMVM received information that attacks by unknown armed groups against individuals in different communities are on the rise. Recently in Western Equatoria State, there was an attack involving the Ezo County Paramount Chief,” Gen Gelaw said.
Gen. Gelaw expressed concerns over activities of the National Salvation Front (NAS) in Lainya County warning the incidences could derail peace implementation.
“CTSAMVM has further noted an upsurge of activities suspected to be conducted by the National Salvation Army (NAS) around areas of Yei County, where recruitment of youths to NAS has been reported,” he said
“Additionally, suspected NAS elements ambushed a commercial vehicle at Loka Boma in Lainya County, killed its driver, and injured an SSPDF soldier who was escorting it. Such incidents affect the implementation of the ongoing peace process in South Sudan” Gelaw added.
