Troika urges S. Sudanese leaders on women quota in governance

April 29, 2016 (JUBA) — Members of the Troika countries on Friday welcomed the formation of South Sudan’s transitional government of national unity, but warned against violating key provisions of the agreement, including under representation of women.

The western nations, in a statement, said formation of the 30-month interim government was a step forward, calling for cooperation between the former foes.

“In that regard, decisions undermining provisions the parties agreed to in negotiations, such as not fully meeting obligations for women’s participation in the council of ministers, sets a concerning precedent at the beginning of the transition,” the statement reads in part.

President Salva Kiir and first Vice President Riek Machar appointed ministers on Thursday. President Kiir selected four female cabinet ministers as required by the agreement, but vice president Machar nominated only one woman yet the deal demands two.

The Troika also applauded statements issued by the president and his first vice president on Tuesday, pledging cooperation, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence.

“We call on South Sudan’s leaders to continue this spirit of cooperation and to start the difficult task of rebuilding their country. While formation of the transitional government is a step forward, with thousands dead, widespread atrocities committed and millions displaced from their homes during the conflict, this is no time for celebration,” noted the statement, adding that the international community stands united in urging the transitional government to start to work for the people of South Sudan.

“The fighting must stop, decisive action must be taken to tackle the economic crisis and there must be full cooperation with the UN and humanitarian agencies to ensure aid reaches those in need; formal and informal impediments must be removed,” Troika, which sponsored the regional broker peace deal noted.

The Troika members vowed to remain long term partners and friends of South Sudan’s people. We stand ready to support the transitional government if it shows it is serious about working for the good of the country and implementing the peace agreement in full. We expect the transitional government to honor its commitments.

“The people of South Sudan deserve nothing less”, the statement stressed.

(ST)