Barney Afako, a member of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, has begun a five-day visit to the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as reported by Radio Tamazuj. This visit comes on the heels of President Salva Kiir's recent approval of two significant laws aimed at establishing a Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing, as well as a Reparation Authority to address the historical injustices faced by victims and survivors.
In September 2024, South Sudan's leadership decided to extend the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict for an additional two years, which has raised questions about their dedication to completing the political transition. During his visit, Commissioner Afako and the Commission’s Secretariat will engage with various officials from the African Union, IGAD, and other diplomatic and civil society representatives.
The African Union's role is vital in supporting South Sudan politically and in mobilizing resources to overcome the ongoing challenges in implementing the peace agreement effectively. Although the laws necessary for the Truth Commission and the Reparation Authority have been put in place, there is still an urgent need to establish the Hybrid Court for South Sudan and to enhance the domestic criminal justice systems. This is a critical step that must be taken to ensure accountability and justice in the region.
The Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan operates as an independent entity under the United Nations Human Rights Council. Initially set up in March 2016, it has been renewed each year since then. The three Commissioners, who are not UN employees and do not receive payment for their roles, work independently as experts. They are backed by a Secretariat located in Juba, South Sudan, and are tasked with investigating human rights conditions in the country.
Their goal is to provide recommendations aimed at preventing further deterioration and promoting improvement. The Commission also seeks to uncover and report on human rights violations, clarifying accountability for crimes under both national and international law, drawing on insights from interviews with victims, witnesses, and various stakeholders.