UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan Engages in Peace Initiatives in Kenya
A UN Commission on Human Rights delegation is visiting Kenya for five days to engage with stakeholders on human rights and accountability issues in South Sudan, emphasizing the importance of transitional justice in peace talks. Led by Yasmin Sooka, the delegation aims to support South Sudan’s judicial reforms and encourage regional involvement, fostering lasting peace in the country.
A delegation from the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has initiated a five-day visit to Kenya to engage with various stakeholders to promote human rights and accountability for violations in South Sudan. Led by Chair Yasmin Sooka and member Barney Afako, the delegation aims to meet with senior Kenyan government officials, international organizations, and civil society representatives. The discussions will focus on the significance of upholding human rights and thwarting potential deterioration in South Sudan’s situation, as well as emphasizing the role of justice in the peace process.
Further, the Commission will advocate for support to establish a dependable judicial system in South Sudan in accordance with the Judicial Review Commission’s recommendations. They plan to participate in the Tumaini Initiative, a mediation dialogue aimed at including hold-out groups in the Revitalized Agreement for Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) 2018. A key message will be to integrate transitional justice measures to ensure accountability and redress for victims, which are critical for sustained peace in the region.
The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan is an independent body established to address human rights issues within the country. Renewed annually since its inception in March 2016, the Commission comprises three experts who operate independently of the UN staff. Its primary mandate includes investigating human rights violations in South Sudan, making recommendations to prevent further degradation, and clarifying responsibilities for crimes under national and international law. With a Secretariat located in Juba, the Commission relies on independent interviews with victims, witnesses, and other relevant stakeholders to inform its findings and recommendations.
The visit of the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan to Kenya underscores the ongoing commitment to address human rights violations and promote accountability in South Sudan. By engaging various stakeholders and emphasizing the necessity of transitional justice measures, the Commission seeks to foster a conducive environment for lasting peace in the region. This initiative highlights the crucial role of regional support, particularly from Kenya, in aiding South Sudan’s transition towards stability and justice.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org