“Impunity is the key driver of the endless cycle of violence in South Sudan,” – Amnesty International

Amnesty International is calling on the government to expedite the establishment of justice mechanism systems, to address atrocities committed during the conflict.

The human rights watchdog is concerned that the transitional justice mechanisms provided for in the revitalized agreement, have not yet been established. 

A lead Researcher with Amnesty International, Rachel Nicholson says the government must act fast to ensure the justice mechanisms are in place.

Chapter Five of the revitalized peace agreement provides for the establishment of the Hybrid Court, the Commission for Truth and Reconciliation and the Compensation and Reparation Authority as transitional justice institutions to ensure justice for victims of violations. 

“It is almost four years later and none of these mechanisms has yet been set up,” Ms. Nicholson said.

In a related development, the human rights group is advocating for a reform in some of the country’s laws in alignment with the peace agreement. 

Lead Researcher Rachel Nicholson spoke to Philip Wani in this interview.