NAS urges international community to safeguard South Sudan’s oil revenues amid constitutional crisis
The National Salvation Front (NAS) has called on the international community to consider safeguarding South Sudan’s oil revenues, warning that the country’s resources must not be managed by an administration it considers constitutionally and politically illegitimate.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, 3 November, NAS appealed to international partners to explore arrangements that would ensure South Sudan’s share of oil proceeds is used for national development, social services and the welfare of its citizens.
The revolutionary movement proposed that the funds be channelled through credible national and international organisations that provide services directly to the population, or placed in secure escrow until a legitimate government is established.
The proposal forms part of a wider set of recommendations issued by NAS in response to what it described as a deepening political and constitutional stalemate under the caretaker administration led by Gen. Salva Kiir.
Questions over the administration’s mandate
NAS argued that the current administration has exhausted its constitutional and political options and cannot acquire a fresh mandate through arrangements that bypass the people of South Sudan.
The movement said legitimacy can only be renewed through free, fair and credible elections, adding that the conditions required to conduct such elections have not been met.
It also argued that the absence of the legislature removes a possible legal avenue for extending the administration’s tenure.
On that basis, NAS called on foreign governments, financial institutions, companies and international organisations to suspend contracts and other dealings with the administration.
It warned that any entities proceeding with such transactions would do so at their own risk, arguing that an administration without legitimacy cannot properly enter into contracts or transact on behalf of the state and its people.
Call for principled international engagement
NAS also called on the United Nations and African Union not to extend recognition to the caretaker administration.
It urged international partners to review diplomatic privileges, immunities and travel facilitation extended to Kiir and members of his administration.
The movement appealed to the United Nations, African Union, IGAD and other international partners to demonstrate firm and principled engagement, arguing that the aspirations of South Sudanese citizens should not be sacrificed to political expediency.
Dialogue remains the proposed way forward
While calling for international measures, NAS reiterated its commitment to a negotiated political settlement.
It proposed a genuine, inclusive and comprehensive national dialogue, convened in a free, safe and neutral venue, with the participation of all stakeholders.
The movement said the dialogue should be guided by a clear agenda addressing the root causes of the conflict and establishing a path towards sustainable peace.
NAS also called on political parties, civil society organisations, religious leaders and faith-based organisations to unite around a shared national agenda and promote reconciliation.
The movement reaffirmed its readiness to participate in a process capable of taking South Sudan out of its present crisis and towards a democratic, federal system of government.
It said the window for a peaceful negotiated solution remained open, but warned that urgent action was needed before the crisis deepened further.
The statement was signed by Suba Samuel Manase, spokesperson for the National Salvation Front.
