President Salva Kiir speaks during the opening ceremony of the Transitional Justice System conference in Juba. May 15, 2023. | Photo: Awan Moses/ Eye Radio

President Salva Kiir said his government is not avoiding the establishment of the hybrid court for South Sudan.

The revitalized peace agreement requires the African Union and the government in Juba to set up a tribunal for South Sudan to investigate and prosecute individuals suspected of committing crimes since the conflict began in December 2013.

Speaking during the launch of the conference on transitional justice mechanisms in Juba ON Monday, President Kiir said South Sudan will establish the hybrid court when the right time comes.

“We are not shying away from the establishment of the hybrid court for South Sudan which is part of chapter five of the agreement on transitional justice and accountability,” he said.

“When the time comes for the enactment of the bill for the hybrid court for South Sudan, the ministry of justice and constitutional affairs which is charged with the responsibility to trigger the implementation of these mechanisms in collaboration with the African Union as stipulated in the agreement will update us accordingly.”

It is seven years since the peace deal was signed with a commitment to set up the Hybrid Court in the country.

But the tribunal has not yet been formed – despite its approval by the government.

The Commission for Truth, Reconciliation, and Healing and the Compensation and Reparation Authority have not been appointed as well.