The Ceasefire and Transitional Security Monitoring Mechanisms says its monitoring and evaluation team has been under the threats of arrest since last month in Yambio.

The CTSAMM says the delay in the formation of other supporting institutions by the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission provided for in the peace agreement has also affected the work of the body.

The institutions include the Joint Operation Center, the headquarters from which the CTSAMM will coordinate its monitoring and evaluation operations.

The other is the Area Joint Monitoring Ceasefire Commission, composed of sub-commissions that will be running operations of the CTSAMM at state levels.

“It’s worrisome that the MVT in Yambio has been under persistent threat of arrest since their assignment on 7 April,” said Major-Gen Molla Hailemariam, Chairperson of the Transitional Ceasefire and Security Monitoring Mechanism.

“I have repeatedly reported the problem of freedom at JMEC and CTSAMM meetings; regrettably, the violation reports submitted by CTSAMM seem to end up with no feedback from JMEC, nor follow up actions from the parties.

“I expect that CTSAMM’s efforts have an impact on the peace process in South Sudan.”

It’s unclear who’s behind the threats and restrictions of the monitors’ movements.

CTSAMM is responsible for monitoring compliance to the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements.

It reports directly to the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission on the progress of the implementation.