National Mediation Panel Established by CEPO to Drive Peace and Reconciliation Initiatives

The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has announced the establishment of a new platform called the Panel of National Mediators (PONM). This platform aims to promote peace and reconciliation among communities in South Sudan. The PONM will consist of national individuals with a strong track record in mediation, negotiation, and dialogue.

Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of CEPO, revealed that the official launch of the Panel of National Mediators will take place in March 2024 in Juba. During this event, the terms of reference for the PONM and a code of conduct will be made public. The establishment of the PONM was prompted by the increase in deadly violence across the country and the failure of previous attempts to secure peaceful co-existence among communities.

The Panel of National Mediators will serve as a platform to address conflict early warning alerts and respond effectively to developing violent situations. It will consist of national individuals who are well-prepared to mediate, negotiate, and engage in dialogue among conflicting communities whenever needed. The PONM will also offer training, mentorship, and coaching to volunteers from society who are interested in mediation, negotiation, and dialogue. CEPO encourages individuals to volunteer for this platform.

In a separate news development, CEPO applauds Central Equatoria State Government’s response to atrocities allegations

In a media statement issued on Thursday, January 4th 2024, CEPO has welcomed the swift action taken by the Central Equatoria State government in establishing a facts-finding committee to investigate allegations of atrocities and human rights violations during the recent civilian disarmament in Gondokoro payam.

The Executive Director of CEPO, commended the government’s initiative but emphasized the importance of inclusivity and transparency in the committee’s work. He called for the committee to make their report public to ensure credibility and accountability.

“We need accountability to prevail on the allegations of human rights violations in the Gondokoro civilian disarmament,” Mr Yakani stated. “The facts-finding committee should involve the participation of military justice units, similar to what has been done in Yei and Morobo, where soldiers accused of crimes against civilians were held accountable.”

Mr Yakani also urged the committee to avoid any attempts to cover up the allegations or allow the process to be hindered by delays, citing previous incidents in Kejokaji county where similar committees failed to bring justice to victims.

CEPO called on the leadership of Central Equatoria State and the Security and Defense sector to take proactive measures in holding perpetrators of human rights violations accountable.

The establishment of the facts-finding committee is seen as a positive step towards addressing the serious allegations of atrocities and human rights violations committed during the Gondokoro civilian disarmament. The public release of the committee’s report will be crucial in ensuring transparency and restoring faith in the justice system.