Terms of Reference for the Abyei Joint Committee

Country/entity
South Sudan
Sudan
Southern Kordofan - Blue Nile - Abyei
Region
Africa (excl MENA)
Agreement name
Terms of Reference for the Abyei Joint Committee
Date
8 Sep 2011
Agreement status
Multiparty signed/agreed
Interim arrangement
Yes
Agreement/conflict level
Interstate/intrastate conflict(s)
Stage
Implementation/renegotiation
Conflict nature
Government/territory
Peace process
Kordofan - Blue Nile - Abyei process
Parties
Signed by: Governor Omer Suleiman, Co-Chairman of the Government of Sudan; H.E. Deng Alor Kuol, for Co-Chairman of the Government of South Sudan
Third parties
Witnessed by: Mr. Boitshoko Mokgatlhe, African Union Facilitator to the AJOC; and Lt. Gen. Tadesse Tesfay, Force Commander, United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei.
Description
An agreement that includes a Joint Press Statement that informs on the launch of the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC), as well as the Terms of Reference for AJOC that were agreed upon during the initial AJOC meeting. Annex One provides for the Terms of Reference for the AJOC Secretariat, Annex Two provides for the Terms of Reference for the AJOC Executive Officers, and maps indicating redeployment timelines and plans are attached. Additionally, a Record of Decisions from the initial AJOC meeting is appended at the end of the agreement.


Groups

Children/youth

No specific mention.

Disabled persons

No specific mention.

Elderly/age

No specific mention.

Migrant workers

No specific mention.

Racial/ethnic/national group

No specific mention.

Religious groups

No specific mention.

Indigenous people

No specific mention.

Other groups

No specific mention.

Refugees/displaced persons
Groups→Refugees/displaced persons→Substantive
Page 6, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Standing Agenda for AJOC Monthly Meeting:
-Migration and IDPs.

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
3. Management of IDPs and Migrations - Decision: Both parties agreed to engage with the UNISFA Force Commander in line with demilitarization and that return would be synchronized with the 'second planting season' (starts in next 3 weeks) and Misseriya migration; GoSS members stated that funds would be made available for IDP/Humanitarian issues and encouraged GoS to do the same; GoS Co-Chair agreed to accompany the UNISFA Force Cammder to liaise with Misseriya currently outside the Abyei area.
[...]
Social class

No specific mention.


Gender

Women, girls and gender

No specific mention.

Men and boys

No specific mention.

LGBTI

No specific mention.

Family

No specific mention.


State definition

Nature of state (general)

No specific mention.

State configuration

No specific mention.

Self determination

No specific mention.

Referendum

No specific mention.

State symbols

No specific mention.

Independence/secession

No specific mention.

Accession/unification

No specific mention.

Border delimitation
Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
13. Border Demarcation map to be finalized to define inter - mission operational areas - Decision: The Members agreed that the existing border demarcation team would be reconstituted with force protection provided by UNISFA and would also work with the demining teams.
Cross-border provision
Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
10. Agreement on Weapon Policy for migrants and others within Abyei Area - Decision: It was agreed that the Kadugli agreement would remain as the weapons policy for the Abyei area; GoSS agreed to engage the neighboring southern states (Unity, Bahr el Ghazal, Waarap) to adopt a similar policy.

Governance

Political institutions (new or reformed)

No specific mention.

Elections

No specific mention.

Electoral commission

No specific mention.

Political parties reform

No specific mention.

Civil society
Page 1, Press Statement
The member of the AJOC agreed, in their work, to keep in mind the interests of the local communities, especially as the planting and migration seasons are due to commence soon.
Traditional/religious leaders

No specific mention.

Public administration
Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
7. Establishment of Civil Institutions - Decision: - Both parties agreed for immediate establishment of the civil administration.
Constitution

No specific mention.


Power sharing

Political power sharing
Power sharing→Political power sharing→General
Sub-state level
Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-The AJOC shall exercise on behalf of the President of Sudan and the President of South Sudan, political and administrative oversight of the Executive Council. The AJOC shall submit a monthly report to the President of Sudan and the President of South Sudan, for as long as the mechanism remains in place.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-The AJOC shall provide timely guidance and decisions to facilitate the timely and effective implementation of the various agreements as well as the establishment and sustainment of a stable and secure environment in Abyei.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-Decisions made by the AJOC shall be made by consensus.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-The AJOC may direct the Executive Council or any official or committee of the Abyei Area to provide it with a report on any matter within its powers. The AJOC may hold meetings with the Executive Council to discuss any matter within its mandate.

Page 17, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
Instrument to Assign Security-related Functions to Abyei Executive Council
1. Pursuant to articles 6 and 14 of the Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area, 20th June 2011 (the Principal Agreement), the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee ("the Committee") hereby assigns to the Abyei Executive Council ("the Executive Council") certain functions relating to the management of security and stability in the Abyei Area ("the Area").

Page 17, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
2. The Executive Council shall carry out the following functions on behalf of the Committee:
(a) liaising with the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei and other agencies operating within the Area;
(b) assisting with the recruitment of the Abyei Police Service;
(c) making preparations for the establishment of the special migration unit of the Abyei Police Service;
(d) developing of proposals for the management of security and stability aspects of migration;
(e) monitoring of civilian aspects of security and stability within the Area;
(f) making general recommendations and proposals for promoting security and stability in the Area;
(g) developing a work-plan for the fulfilment of the functions set out in this paragraph;
(h) implementation of security-related decisions taken by the Committee; and,
(i) any other matter as shall be determined by the Committee

Page 17, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
3. The Executive Council shall submit to the Committee regular briefings and progress reports on the functions set out in paragraph 2 above and shall liaise regularly with the Executive Office of the Committee.

Page 17-18, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
4. The Committee shall, pursuant to the Principal Agreement, retain overall responsibility and powers for supervising and promoting security and stability in the Area and shall take all the key decisions relating to this mandate.

Page 18, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
5. This Instrument shall come into effect as soon as the Executive Council has been established and may be amended or revoked by the Committee.
Power sharing→Political power sharing→Executive coalition
Sub-state level
Page 4,
Membership:
• Two members from each State (one from each nominated as Co-Chairs).
Only in exceptional circumstances can nominated AJOC member be represented by mandated alternatives.
• GoSS: Nominated Members:
• Dr Luka Biong Deng.
• Cmde Edward Lino.
• GoS: Nominated Members:
• Former Govenor Omar Suleiman.
• Brigadier Mohieldin AhmedElhadi.
• African Union - Non-voting member and facilitator.
• UNISFA Force commander- Non-voting member for security discussions.
• AJOC shall have a permanent secretariat and executive officers from both State based in Abyei.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-The Presidents may jointly direct the AJOC to deal with any matter relating to Abyei, including in the case of a deadlock in the Executive Council.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-In the case of a deadlock within the AJOC, the AJOC co-Chairs may refer any question to the Presidents for their guidance. The opinions and recommendations of the non-voting member of the AJOC shall be forwarded along with the referral.
Power sharing→Political power sharing→Other proportionality
Sub-state level
Page 7, Annex 1: Terms of Reference for the AJOC Secretariat
Membership:
• Two administrative support personnel from each State.

Functions/Execution:
• The secretariat shall provide all administrative and logistical support to enable the AJOC to function.
• The secretariat shall be managed by the Executive Officers (Annex 2 outlines membership, functions and administration/finance for the Executive Officers).
. . .

Page 8, Annex 2: Terms of Reference for the AJOC Executive Officers
Membership:
• Each State shall nominate one representative to be assigned as Executive Officer.
Functions/Execution:
• The Executive Officers will serve as the point of contact in Abyei for AJOC.
• At least one Executive Officer shall be on duty at the AJOC office at all times during the absence of the AJOC co-chairs and members.
Power sharing→Political power sharing→International involvement
Sub-state level
Page 4, Membership:see international membership of committee, above.
Territorial power sharing
Power sharing→Territorial power sharing→Autonomous regions
Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-The AJOC shall exercise on behalf of the President of Sudan and the President of South Sudan, political and administrative oversight of the Executive Council. The AJOC shall submit a monthly report to the President of Sudan and the President of South Sudan, for as long as the mechanism remains in place.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-The AJOC shall provide timely guidance and decisions to facilitate the timely and effective implementation of the various agreements as well as the establishment and sustainment of a stable and secure environment in Abyei.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-Decisions made by the AJOC shall be made by consensus.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-The Chairpersons shall be responsible for supervising compliance of the various administrative and operational structures, excluding UNISFA, as mandated in the agreements, serve as the final approval, on behalf of the two Presidents, for resolving disputes, making decisions and approving plans.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-The AJOC's meeting agenda will be prepared in draft by the AJOC secretariat for approval of the co-Chairs.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-The Presidents may jointly direct the AJOC to deal with any matter relating to Abyei, including in the case of a deadlock in the Executive Council.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-In the case of a deadlock within the AJOC, the AJOC co-Chairs may refer any question to the Presidents for their guidance. The opinions and recommendations of the non-voting member of the AJOC shall be forwarded along with the referral.

Page 5, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Functions/Execution:
-The AJOC may direct the Executive Council or any official or committee of the Abyei Area to provide it with a report on any matter within its powers. The AJOC may hold meetings with the Executive Council to discuss any matter within its mandate.

Page 17, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
Instrument to Assign Security-related Functions to Abyei Executive Council
1. Pursuant to articles 6 and 14 of the Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area, 20th June 2011 (the Principal Agreement), the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee ("the Committee") hereby assigns to the Abyei Executive Council ("the Executive Council") certain functions relating to the management of security and stability in the Abyei Area ("the Area").

Page 17, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
2. The Executive Council shall carry out the following functions on behalf of the Committee:
(a) liaising with the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei and other agencies operating within the Area;
(b) assisting with the recruitment of the Abyei Police Service;
(c) making preparations for the establishment of the special migration unit of the Abyei Police Service;
(d) developing of proposals for the management of security and stability aspects of migration;
(e) monitoring of civilian aspects of security and stability within the Area;
(f) making general recommendations and proposals for promoting security and stability in the Area;
(g) developing a work-plan for the fulfilment of the functions set out in this paragraph;
(h) implementation of security-related decisions taken by the Committee; and,
(i) any other matter as shall be determined by the Committee

Page 17, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
3. The Executive Council shall submit to the Committee regular briefings and progress reports on the functions set out in paragraph 2 above and shall liaise regularly with the Executive Office of the Committee.

Page 17-18, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
4. The Committee shall, pursuant to the Principal Agreement, retain overall responsibility and powers for supervising and promoting security and stability in the Area and shall take all the key decisions relating to this mandate.

Page 18, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
5. This Instrument shall come into effect as soon as the Executive Council has been established and may be amended or revoked by the Committee.
Economic power sharing

No specific mention.

Military power sharing

No specific mention.


Human rights and equality

Human rights/RoL general

No specific mention.

Bill of rights/similar

No specific mention.

Treaty incorporation

No specific mention.

Civil and political rights

No specific mention.

Socio-economic rights

No specific mention.


Rights related issues

Citizenship

No specific mention.

Democracy

No specific mention.

Detention procedures

No specific mention.

Media and communication

No specific mention.

Mobility/access
Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
6. Infrastructure and Logistic Support shortfalls - Decision: Cost of construction/repair of roads (from Kadugli to Agok) will be shared between parties with additional request for support made from the UN and Oil companies; Other issues of contractors freedom of movement will be resolved by finalization of the SOFA.
Protection measures

No specific mention.

Other

No specific mention.


Rights institutions

NHRI

No specific mention.

Regional or international human rights institutions

No specific mention.


Justice sector reform

Criminal justice and emergency law

No specific mention.

State of emergency provisions

No specific mention.

Judiciary and courts

No specific mention.

Prisons and detention

No specific mention.

Traditional Laws

No specific mention.


Socio-economic reconstruction

Development or socio-economic reconstruction
Socio-economic reconstruction→Development or socio-economic reconstruction→Socio-economic development
Page 6, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Standing Agenda for AJOC Monthly Meeting:
-Briefing from Force Commander on security of Abyei area.
-Report from Abyei Executive Council:
o Development/Finance:
Socio-economic reconstruction→Development or socio-economic reconstruction→Humanitarian assistance
Page 6, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Standing Agenda for AJOC Monthly Meeting:
-Briefing from Force Commander on security of Abyei area.
-Report from Abyei Executive Council:
o Humanitarian planning:
-Migration and IDPs.

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
3. Management of IDPs and Migrations - Decision: Both parties agreed to engage with the UNISFA Force Commander in line with demilitarization and that return would be synchronized with the 'second planting season' (starts in next 3 weeks) and Misseriya migration; GoSS members stated that funds would be made available for IDP/Humanitarian issues and encouraged GoS to do the same; GoS Co-Chair agreed to accompany the UNISFA Force Cammder to liaise with Misseriya currently outside the Abyei area.
[...]
Socio-economic reconstruction→Development or socio-economic reconstruction→Infrastructure and reconstruction
Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
6. Infrastructure and Logistic Support shortfalls - Decision: Cost of construction/repair of roads (from Kadugli to Agok) will be shared between parties with additional request for support made from the UN and Oil companies; Other issues of contractors freedom of movement will be resolved by finalization of the SOFA.
National economic plan

No specific mention.

Natural resources

No specific mention.

International funds

No specific mention.

Business

No specific mention.

Taxation

No specific mention.

Banks

No specific mention.


Land, property and environment

Land reform/rights
Land, property and environment→Land reform/rights→Other land rights
Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
9. Agreement on temporary acquisition of land for establishment of company operating bases - Decision: It was agreed that the SOFA would cover high-level policy on land use by UNISFA, individual locations covered by a Land acquisition agreement would be negotiated with the Abyei Administration (when formed) until such time AJOC would make decisions, and agreed that UNISFA can occupy required locations.
Pastoralist/nomadism rights
Page 17, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
2. The Executive Council shall carry out the following functions on behalf of the Committee: [...]
(c) making preparations for the establishment of the special migration unit of the Abyei Police Service;
(d) developing of proposals for the management of security and stability aspects of migration;

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
3. Management of IDPs and Migrations - Decision: Both parties agreed to engage with the UNISFA Force Commander in line with demilitarization and that return would be synchronized with the 'second planting season' (starts in next 3 weeks) and Misseriya migration; GoSS members stated that funds would be made available for IDP/Humanitarian issues and encouraged GoS to do the same; GoS Co-Chair agreed to accompany the UNISFA Force Cammder to liaise with Misseriya currently outside the Abyei area.
[...]
Cultural heritage

No specific mention.

Environment

No specific mention.

Water or riparian rights or access

No specific mention.


Security sector

Security Guarantees

No specific mention.

Ceasefire
Security sector→Ceasefire→Ceasefire provision
Page 10, Redeployment Plans for all Authorized Forces within Abyei
Timings of redeployment
1. Timelines: 11-17 September 2011 - Partial Redeployment of both SAF and SPLA
2. Timelines: 18-24 September - Partial Redeployment of SAF, SPLA Redeployment completed
3. Timelines: 25-30 September - Complete Redeployment from Abyei Area of both SAF and SPLA

Page 11, Redeployment Plans for all Authorized Forces within Abyei
[Summary: Phase 1 (SAF) - map displays timings, redeployment line, tasks, and monitoring and verification duties by JMOTs]

Page 13, Redeployment Plans for all Authorized Forces within Abyei
[Summary: Phase 2 (SAF) - map displays timings, redeployment line, tasks, and monitoring and verification duties by JMOTs]

Page 15, Redeployment Plans for all Authorized Forces within Abyei
[Summary: Phase 3 (SAF) - map displays timings, redeployment line, tasks, and monitoring and verification duties by JMOTs]

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
12. Release of 14 Civilians under custody of SAF in Abyei - Decision: Members agreed that the prisoners would be released at the beginning of the redeployment {11th September 2011).
Police
Page 17, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
2. The Executive Council shall carry out the following functions on behalf of the Committee: [...]
(b) assisting with the recruitment of the Abyei Police Service;

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
11. Immediate establishment of Abyei Police Services - Decision: A]OC would develop policy on the size, tasks and method of training for the Abyei police service which will operate under UNISFA.
Armed forces

No specific mention.

DDR
Security sector→DDR→Demilitarisation provisions
Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
8. Declaration of Mined Areas by both SAF and SPLA - Decision: It was agreed that SPLA and SAF Military Intelligence would meet under the supervision of with UNISFA to exchange maps and would engage UNMO on immediate plan for demining; It was agreed that the meeting would take place on 12th September 2011, with a view to conduction demining between 11-30th September 2011.
Intelligence services
Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
8. Declaration of Mined Areas by both SAF and SPLA - Decision: It was agreed that SPLA and SAF Military Intelligence would meet under the supervision of with UNISFA to exchange maps and would engage UNMO on immediate plan for demining; It was agreed that the meeting would take place on 12th September 2011, with a view to conduction demining between 11-30th September 2011.
Parastatal/rebel and opposition group forces
Page 10, Redeployment Plans for all Authorized Forces within Abyei
Timings of redeployment
1. Timelines: 11-17 September 2011 - Partial Redeployment of both SAF and SPLA
2. Timelines: 18-24 September - Partial Redeployment of SAF, SPLA Redeployment completed
3. Timelines: 25-30 September - Complete Redeployment from Abyei Area of both SAF and SPLA

Page 12, Redeployment Plans for all Authorized Forces within Abyei
[Summary: Phase 1 SPLA - map displays timings, redeployment line, tasks, and monitoring and verification duties by JMOTs]

Page 14, Redeployment Plans for all Authorized Forces within Abyei
[Summary: Phase 1 SPLA - map displays timings, redeployment line, tasks, and monitoring and verification duties by JMOTs]
Withdrawal of foreign forces

No specific mention.

Corruption

No specific mention.

Crime/organised crime

No specific mention.

Drugs

No specific mention.

Terrorism

No specific mention.


Transitional justice

Transitional justice general

No specific mention.

Amnesty/pardon

No specific mention.

Courts

No specific mention.

Mechanism

No specific mention.

Prisoner release
Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
12. Release of 14 Civilians under custody of SAF in Abyei - Decision: Members agreed that the prisoners would be released at the beginning of the redeployment {11th September 2011).
Vetting

No specific mention.

Victims

No specific mention.

Missing persons

No specific mention.

Reparations

No specific mention.

Reconciliation
Page 6, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference
Standing Agenda for AJOC Monthly Meeting:.
-Report from Abyei Executive Council:
o Reconciliation:

Implementation

UN signatory
Witnessed by: Lt. Gen. Tadesse Tesfay, Force Commander, United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei.
Other international signatory
Witnessed by: Mr. Boitshoko Mokgatlhe, African Union Facilitator to the AJOC; and Lt. Gen. Tadesse Tesfay, Force Commander, United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei.
Referendum for agreement

No specific mention.

International mission/force/similar
Page 17, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee
2. The Executive Council shall carry out the following functions on behalf of the Committee:
(a) liaising with the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei and other agencies operating within the Area;

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
1. Demilitarization - Decision: Redployment of Forces is to commence on the 11 of September 2011 and be complete by 30 Septembmer, beginning with redeployment from Abyei town (the agreed schedule of redeployment is enclosed).

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
3. Management of IDPs and Migrations - Decision: Both parties agreed to engage with the UNISFA Force Commander in line with demilitarization and that return would be synchronized with the 'second planting season' (starts in next 3 weeks) and Misseriya migration; GoSS members stated that funds would be made available for IDP/Humanitarian issues and encouraged GoS to do the same; GoS Co-Chair agreed to accompany the UNISFA Force Cammder to liaise with Misseriya currently outside the Abyei area.
[...]

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
6. Infrastructure and Logistic Support shortfalls - Decision: Cost of construction/repair of roads (from Kadugli to Agok) will be shared between parties with additional request for support made from the UN and Oil companies; Other issues of contractors freedom of movement will be resolved by finalization of the SOFA.

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
7. Establishment of Civil Institutions - Decision: - Both parties agreed for immediate establishment of the civil administration.

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
8. Declaration of Mined Areas by both SAF and SPLA - Decision: It was agreed that SPLA and SAF Military Intelligence would meet under the supervision of with UNISFA to exchange maps and would engage UNMO on immediate plan for demining; It was agreed that the meeting would take place on 12th September 2011, with a view to conduction demining between 11-30th September 2011.

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
9. Agreement on temporary acquisition of land for establishment of company operating bases - Decision: It was agreed that the SOFA would cover high-level policy on land use by UNISFA, individual locations covered by a Land acquisition agreement would be negotiated with the Abyei Administration (when formed) until such time AJOC would make decisions, and agreed that UNISFA can occupy required locations.

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
10. Agreement on Weapon Policy for migrants and others within Abyei Area - Decision: It was agreed that the Kadugli agreement would remain as the weapons policy for the Abyei area; GoSS agreed to engage the neighboring southern states (Unity, Bahr el Ghazal, Waarap) to adopt a similar policy.

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
11. Immediate establishment of Abyei Police Services - Decision: A]OC would develop policy on the size, tasks and method of training for the Abyei police service which will operate under UNISFA.

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
12. Release of 14 Civilians under custody of SAF in Abyei - Decision: Members agreed that the prisoners would be released at the beginning of the redeployment {11th September 2011).

Page 19, Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) Meeting 8th September 2011 Addis Ababa Ethiopia Record of Decisions
Agenda Item 6. Force Commander's Challenges/Priorities in Priority Order:
13. Border Demarcation map to be finalized to define inter - mission operational areas - Decision: The Members agreed that the existing border demarcation team would be reconstituted with force protection provided by UN ISFA and would also work with the demining teams.
Enforcement mechanism

No specific mention.

Related cases

No specific mention.

Source
Peacemaker.un.org,. 2015. 'UN Peacemaker'. http://peacemaker.un.org.

PRESS STATEMENT

Launch of Abyei Joint Oversight Committee

Addis Ababa, 8th September 2011:

Following the signing of the Temporary Arrangcrnents for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area on 20th June, 2011, rhe African Union High Level Implementation Panel (AUHIP) convened an inaugural meeting of the Abyci Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) in Addis Ababa.

The two-day meeting, which was launched by H.E. President Pierre Buyoya member of the AUHIP, was co-chaired by H.E. Omer Suleiman and H.E. Deng Alor Kuol representing the Government of Sudan and the Government of South Sudan respectively.

Ambassador Kuol Alor Kuol for South Sudan, and Brigadier Mohieldin Ahmed Elhadi for Sudan attended as members.

Mr. Boitshoko Mokgatlhe, representing the African Union Commission, and the UNISFA Force Commander, Lt Gen. Tadesse Tesfoy participated as the non-voting members.

The meeting adopted modalities for the work of the AJOC, which shall base its work in Ahyei to oversee the administration of the Abyei Arca and to take responsibility for security issues in particular.

After receiving a briefing from the Force Commander, the meeting agreed on a timetable for the redeployment of all forces out of the Abyei Area, to commence on the 11th September 2011 and to be completed by 30rh September 2011.

The members of the AJOC agreed, in their work, to keep in mind the interests of the local communities, especially as the planting and migration seasons arc due to commence soon.

Un behalf of the AUHIP, President Buyoya commended the two Governments for rhc successful launch of the AJOC and for taking the decisions necessary for implementing the Abyei Administration and Security Agreement.

The meeting agreed that the AJOC would convene its next meeting in Abyci Town on 15th September 2011.

H.E. Omar Suleiman, Co-Chair, AJOC

H.E. Deng Alor Kuol, for Co-Chair AJOC

Having held the first n1eeting of The Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJ OC) on 7rh and 8rh September, 2011 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the AJOC agreed to the following;

1. The Abyei Joint Oversight Committee Terms of Reference

• Annex One Terms of Reference for the AJOC Secretariat

• Annex Two Terms of Reference for the AJOC Executive Officers

2. Redeployment Plans for all Authorized Forces within Abyei

3. Draft Instrument on Security Related Functions

4. Record of decisions of the AJOC meeting of 8th September, 2011

Signed by

Governor Omer Suleiman,

Co-Chairman of the Government of Sudan

H.E Deng Alar Kuol

For Co-Chairman of the Government of South Sudan

Witnessed by

Mr. Boitshoko Mokgatlhe

African Union Facilitator to the AJOC

and

Lt. Gen. Tadesse Tesfay

Force Commander, United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei

Abyei Joint Oversight Committee

Terms of Reference

References:

• Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area dated 2oth June 2011.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

• Abyei protocol.

• PCA ruling.

Membership:

• Two members from each State (one from each nominated as Co-Chairs).

Only in exceptional circumstances can nominated AJOC member be represented by mandated alternatives.

• GoSS:

Nominated Members:

• Dr Luka Biong Deng.

• Cmde Edward Lino.

• GoS:

Nominated Members:

• Former Govenor Omar Suleiman.

• Brigadier Mohieldin AhmedElhadi.

• African Union - Non-voting member and facilitator.

• UNISFA Force commander- Non-voting member for security discussions.

• AJOC shall have a permanent secretariat and executive officers from both State based in Abyei.

Frequency:

• AJOC shall on a monthly basis.

TheStates may request the AJOC to meet more frequently, as required - in the initial stages daily or bi-weekly meeting may be required.

Reporting:

• AJOC shall make a monthly report to respective Presidents and when is necessary.

• AJOC call for a monthly briefings from the UNISFA Force Commander and be prepared to receive ad-hoe briefing as produced by the UNISFA Force Commander.

• AJOC shall call for a weekly report from the Abyei Executive Council (when formed) giving an overall picture of the situation in the Abyei Area, including security-related matters.

Functions/Execution:

• The AJOC shall exercise on behalf of the President of Sudan and the President of South Sudan, political and administrative oversight of the Executive Council.

The AJOC shall submit a monthly report to the President of Sudan and the President of South Sudan, for as long as the mechanism remains in place.

• The AJOC shall provide timely guidance and decisions to facilitate the timely and effective implementation of the various agreements as well as the establishment and sustainment of a stable and secure environment in Abyei.

• Decisions made by the AJOC shall be made by consensus.

• The Chairpersons shall be responsible for supervising compliance of the various administrative and operational structures, excluding UNISFA, as mandated in the agreements, serve as the final approval, on behalf of the two Presidents, for resolving disputes, making decisions and approving plans.

• The AJOC's meeting agenda will be prepared in draft by the AJOC secretariat for approval of the co-Chairs.

• The approved agenda will be circulated at least 7 days in advance of scheduled AJOC meetings.

• The Presidents may jointly direct the AJOC to deal with any matter relating to Abyei, including in the case of a deadlock in the Executive Council.

• In the case of a deadlock within the AJOC, the AJOC co-Chairs may refer any question to the Presidents for their guidance.

The opinions and recommendations of the non-voting member of the AJOC shall be forwarded along with the referral.

• The AJOC may direct the Executive Council or any official or committee of the Abyei Area to provide it with a report on any matter within its powers.

The AJOC may hold meetings with the Executive Council to discuss any matter within its mandate.

Standing Agenda for AJOC Monthly Meeting:

• Briefing from Force Commander on security of Abyei area.

• Report from Abyei Executive Council:

o Current Situation:

o Reconciliation:

o Development/Finance:

o Humanitarian planning:

• Migration and IDPs.

• AOB:

Administration/Finance of AJOC:

• The GoS and GoSS shall jointly finance the AJOC.

• AJOC meetings will be in Abyei or other locations mutually agreed by AJOC.

Annexes:

Annex 1:

Terms of Reference for the AJOC Secretariat

Annex 2:

Terms of Reference for the AJOC Executive Officers

Annex 1:

Terms of Reference for the AJOC Secretariat

Membership:

• Two administrative support personnel from each State.

Functions/Execution:

• The secretariat shall provide all administrative and logistical support to enable the AJOC to function.

• The secretariat shall be managed by the Executive Officers (Annex 2 outlines membership, functions and administration/finance for the Executive Officers).

• The secretariat shall file and maintain all official documents and correspondence.

• The secretariat shall facilitate the exchange of all official correspondence.

• The secretariat shall prepare minutes and all official reports and circulate them as directed by the AJOC.

• The secretariat shall prepare the agenda for all official meetings and after approval by the Co-chairs shall circulate to the members of the AJOC.

• The secretariat shall prepare, manage and maintain the AJOC administrative and logistical budget.

• The secretariat shall prepare and submit a monthly administrative.financial and logistical report to the AJOC.

• The secretariat shall coordinate and support all movement and travel of the AJOC.

• The secretariat shall be prepared to travel with and provide administrative and logistical support to the AJOC.

• The secretariat shall manage and maintain all AJOC facilities and equipment.

• The secretariat shall maintain at least one representative from each State on duty at all times.

Annex 2:

Terms of Reference for the AJOC Executive Officers

Membership:

• Each State shall nominate one representative to be assigned as Executive Officer.

Functions/Execution:

• The Executive Officers will serve as the point of contact in Abyei for AJOC.

• At least one Executive Officer shall be on duty at the AJOC office at all times during the absence of the AJOC co-chairs and members.

• The Executive Officers shall supervise the secretariat.

• The Executive Officers shall maintain a presence in the AJOC offices during duty hours and will provide emergency contact information during non-duty hours.

• The Executive Officers will receive reports, requests and calls on behalf of the AJOC.

• The Executive Officers shall provide periodic reports to the AJOC co-chairs of all activities, reports, requests and calls during their absence.

• The Executive Officers shall immediately notify and maintain contact with the AJOC Co-chairs in the event of an emergency.

• The Executive Officers do not have executive authority, only reporting authority.

• The Executive Officers shall assist the AJOC co-chairs and members as requested.

• The Executive Officers are authorized to convey instructions from the AJOC cochairs.

Administration/Finance:

• The Executive Officer pay level and schedule shall be determined by the AJOC.

Redeployment Plans for all Authorized Forces within Abyei

Timing of redeployment

[Contains a timetable matrix]

[Three pages contain maps]

Abyei Joint Oversight Committee

lnstrument No.1 of 2011

Instrument to Assign Security-related Functions to Abyei Executive Council

1. Pursuant to articles 6 and 14 of the Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area, 20th June 2011 (the Principal Agreement), the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee ("the Committee") hereby assigns to the Abyei Executive Council ("the Executive Council") certain functions relating to the management of security and stability in the Abyei Area ("the Area").

2. The Executive Council shall carry out the following functions on behalf of the Committee:

(a) liaising with the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei and other agencies operating within the Area;

(b) assisting with the recruitment of the Abyei Police Service;

(c) making preparations for the establishment of the special migration unit of the Abyei Police Service;

(d) developing of proposals for the management of security and stability aspects of migration;

(e) monitoring of civilian aspects of security and stability within the Area;

(f) making general recommendations and proposals for promoting security and stability in the Area;

(g) developing a work-plan for the fulfilment of the functions set out in this paragraph;

(h) implementation of security-related decisions taken by the Committee;

and,

(i) any other matter as shall be determined by the Committee.

3. The Executive Council shall submit to the Committee regular briefings and progress reports on the functions set out in paragraph 2 above and shall liaise regularly with the Executive Office of the Committee.

4. The Committee shall, pursuant to the Principal Agreement, retain overall responsibility and powers for supervising and promoting security and stability in the Area and shall take all the key decisions relating to this mandate.

5. This Instrument shall come into effect as soon as the Executive Council has been established and may be amended or revoked by the Committee.

Done by the Committee in ....... this ...... day of . .......

20 1 1.

Signed on behalf of the Committee by:

[Summary ABYEI JOINT OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE (AJOC) MEETING 8th SEPTEMBER 2011 ADDIS ABABA ETHIOPIA

RECORD OF DECISIONS:

Contains a table of decisions]