Addressing an Extraordinary CTSAMVM Board Meeting on Tuesday, Chairperson Maj. Gen. Teshome Anagawe Ayana said the security environment has increasingly deteriorated since the March 2025 Nasir incident, with continued clashes between forces and persistent attacks on civilians in several parts of the country.
He noted that although October showed a slight decline in documented conflicts—33 out of 120 daily reports, representing 28 per cent—the broader pattern reveals that signatory parties continue to favour armed confrontation over peaceful engagement.
“The overall trend documented by CTSAMVM highlights that parties are still choosing military action instead of fulfilling their R-ARCSS commitments,” Maj. Gen. Teshome said. “This constant state of violent conflict greatly impacts our ability to monitor and verify.”
CTSAMVM data shows a worrying increase in alleged violations in the months before October. In August 2025, 35 of 120 daily reports (29 per cent) contained claims of infractions. That number surged to 60 out of 120 daily reports in September—50 per cent—marking a sharp escalation in hostilities and ceasefire breaches.
The peace monitor also reported rising incidents of harassment, unlawful detentions, attacks on civilians, and gender-based violence in areas including Yambio, Renk, Tambura, Mayom, and Magwi. Restrictions on movement and unauthorised checkpoints—particularly along the Yei–Morobo, Maridi, Yambio, and Wau–Tambura routes—have disrupted civilian travel and humanitarian operations.
Maj. Gen. Teshome expressed concern over the continued recruitment of children, weak disciplinary action by signatory parties, and persistent delays in deploying the Necessary Unified Forces (NUF). “South Sudan needs one army that serves everyone—not multiple armies serving different groups,” he emphasised.
Operational challenges have further limited CTSAMVM’s work. Flight restrictions and no-fly zones have obstructed rapid investigations into serious allegations, including the bombing of an MSF hospital and reported SSPDF aerial bombardments in Unity State.
The closure of the UNMISS field office in Yei also forced the relocation of one of the monitoring teams, reducing field coverage in a sensitive area.
Maj. Gen. Teshome warned that the mission’s operations are increasingly strained due to significant funding gaps. Funding for 2025 fell well below the required levels, and without additional support, CTSAMVM may be unable to effectively monitor ceasefire compliance as South Sudan edges toward a tense electoral period.
“The need for increased support is urgent,” he said, calling on donors to provide sufficient funding for 2026 to maintain CTSAMVM’s monitoring capabilities. He further urged all parties to recommit to dialogue, uphold the Permanent Ceasefire, and ensure the protection of civilians.
“We align with regional and international partners in urging all parties to respect the Permanent Ceasefire and prioritise civilian safety and dignity,” he added.
