The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has urged the Government of South Sudan to release First Vice President Dr Riek Machar from house arrest, stressing that his freedom is essential for restoring peace and political stability.

Speaking on the United Nations’ Radio Miraya in Juba, Ambassador Behanu highlighted that Machar’s detention has become a pressing concern within the diplomatic community. He noted that every delegation visiting South Sudan has consistently called for the vice president’s release. “The international community is mounting pressure on the government of South Sudan to unconditionally release Dr Machar,” Ambassador Behanu stated, emphasising that securing his release is now the focus of international efforts.

Ambassador Behanu underlined that Machar’s freedom would place the country back on the path towards peace and reconciliation. He argued that political dialogue—not unilateral action—is the proper mechanism for safeguarding the permanent security arrangements outlined in the peace accord. He also pointed out that numerous appeals for Machar’s release have been made by the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and other international partners.

RJMEC, established under Chapter VIII of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), is mandated to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the peace agreement.

Meanwhile, human rights groups have strongly criticised the government’s unilateral decision to place Dr Machar under house arrest, describing it as a clear violation of the peace agreement. Activists warned that South Sudan cannot afford a return to war given its fragile economy, and cautioned of serious consequences if the government continues to undermine the peace process. They reiterated calls for Machar’s immediate release, stressing that his freedom is critical for national stability and reconciliation.