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AFRICAN UNION

UNION AFRICAINE

UNIÃO AFRICANA

P.O. Box: 3243, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Tel.: (251-11) 551 38 22 Fax: (251-11) 551 93 21 Email: [email protected]

ASSEMBLY OF THE UNION Twenty-Third Ordinary Session 26 – 27 June 2014 Malabo, EQUATORIAL GUINEA

Assembly/AU/5(XXII) Original: English/French

REPORT OF THE PEACE AND SECURITY COUNCIL ON ITS ACTIVITIES AND THE STATE OF PEACE

AND SECURITY IN AFRICA

Assembly/AU/4(XXII) Page 1

REPORT OF THE PEACE AND SECURITY COUNCIL ON ITS ACTIVITIES AND THE STATE OF PEACE AND SECURITY IN AFRICA

I. INTRODUCTION 1. The report of the Peace and Security Council (PSC) on its Activities and the State of Peace and Security in Africa is submitted to the Assembly of the African Union (AU) pursuant to Article 7(q) of the Protocol Relating to the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union. The present report covers the period from February 2014 to June 2014, as the activities undertaken during the chairmanship of the Republic of Guinea were covered in the report submitted to the Assembly of the Union in January 2014. The report comprises three parts, respectively dealing with (a) signature and ratification of the PSC Protocol, membership of the PSC and rotation Chair of the PSC; (b) activities undertaken by the PSC in the pursuit of its mandate from February 2014 to June 2014; and (c) an overview of the state of peace and security on the continent from February 2014 to June 2014. II. UPDATES ON SIGNATURE AND RATIFICATION OF THE PSC

PROTOCOL, MEMBERSHIP OF THE PSC AND ROTATION OF THE CHAIR OF THE PSC

2. Since the adoption of the PSC Protocol in July 2002, fifty-four (54) Member States have signed it, while forty-eight (48) have both signed and ratified the Protocol. The following Member States have signed the Protocol, but have not yet ratified it: Cape Verde, Central African Republic (CAR), Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Liberia, Somalia, and South Sudan. 3. Regarding membership, the PSC is composed of fifteen (15) members with equal rights, in line with Article 5 (1) of the Protocol, which are elected as follows: 10 members elected for a two (2) year term and five (5) for a three (3) year term. The current list of PSC members in the English alphabetical order is as follows: Algeria*, Burundi, Chad, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea*, The Gambia, Guinea, Libya, Mozambique*, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria*, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda*1. 4. Furthermore, and in conformity with Rule 23 of the Rules of Procedure of the PSC, the Chair of the PSC rotates among its members on a monthly basis following the English alphabetical order of their names. Thus, during the period under review, the Chair of the PSC rotated as follows:

Lesotho February 2014;

Mozambique March 2014;

Nigeria April 2014;

Tanzania May 2014;

Uganda June 2014.

*Denotes three year term mandate


III. MONTHLY ACTIVITIES OF THE PSC

5. During the period under review, the PSC held a total of twenty seven (27) meetings to consider the following situations and thematic issues: Central African Republic (CAR), Darfur (Sudan), Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Egypt, Guinea Bissau, Libya, Mali, Nigeria (terrorist activities of Boko Haram), Somalia, Sudan, the situation between Sudan and South Sudan, and South Sudan. The PSC also considered the following thematic and other issues: Welfare and Rights of the Child in Africa, the implementation of the Regional Cooperation Initiative for the Elimination of the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) and renewal of its mandate, elections in Africa, silencing guns in Africa, unconstitutional changes of governments and popular uprisings in Africa and children in armed conflicts. Also, on 25 May 2014, the PSC, at the Ambassadorial level held an open session to celebrate its Tenth Anniversary. The PSC also held annual joint consultative meetings with the European Union Political and Security Committee (EU PSC) and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) within the framework of Article 17 of its Protocol. 6. During the reporting period, the countries, civil society organizations (CSOs), the Regional Economic Communities/Regional Mechanisms for Conflict Prevention, Management and Resolution (RECs/RMs), AU partners and other stakeholders concerned with the conflict and crisis situations, as well as thematic issues discussed were invited to meetings of the PSC on the above-mentioned items, in conformity with the provisions of the PSC Protocol and in line with the established practice of the PSC. 7. Article 7 (2, 3 & 4) of the PSC Protocol stipulates, inter alia, that Member States agree that in carrying out its duties, the PSC acts on their behalf. It was in this context and for giving visibility to the work of the PSC, that the respective chairpersons of the PSC during the reporting period briefed the Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC) on activities undertaken by the PSC at the end of each month. During the period under review, five Members of the Council, namely Lesotho (its 2 year mandate expired on 31 March 2014), Mozambique, Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda chaired the Council successively from February to June 2014. A) PSC activities during the month of February 2014, under the chair of the

Kingdom of Lesotho

8. The Kingdom of Lesotho assumed the Chair of the PSC in February 2014. During its month, Lesotho chaired four sessions of the PSC, from 417th session to 420th session and conducted a PSC retreat on the Review of the Implementation of the Livingstone Formula in Maseru, Lesotho, as well as a meeting on the review of the rotation of the Chair of the PSC, as well as a presentation to the PSC by the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa on Threats to Peace and Security in Africa, which were held on the margins of the PSC retreat in Maseru, Lesotho.


a) 418th Meeting:

Adoption of an Indicative Annual Work Programme of the PSC for 2014:

9. The PSC held a retreat on its Working Methods in Yaoundé, Republic of Cameroon in November 2012, as well as another one on the same issue held in Djibouti in February 2013 and mandated the PSC Committee of Experts and the PSC Secretariat to prepare an Indicative Annual Work Programme for the consideration of the PSC. The Draft Annual Provisional Programme was adopted by the PSC during its 418th Meeting held on 11 February 2014.

Adoption of the Conclusions of the Ministerial High Level Retreat on Peace and Security in Africa:

10. At its 418th meeting, the PSC endorsed the conclusions of the High Level Seminar and underlined the need for effective articulation and promotion of Africa’s views within the UN Security Council and requested all AU member States, relevant AU Policy Organs and the Commission to support their effective implementation in the advancement of the African Peace and Security Architecture.

b) 419th Meeting: 11. At its 419th meeting held on the 17 February 2014, the PSC received a briefing from the Commission on the logistical and substantive preparations for the PSC retreat on the Review of the Implementation of the Livingstone Formula then scheduled to be held in Maseru, Lesotho, from 22 to 23 February, 2014.

c) 420th Session: 12. At its 420th meeting held on 18 February 2014, the PSC held a consultation with the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC) in its capacity as an Organ of the AU. The meeting was held pursuant to the Executive Council Decision Ex.CL/Dec. 712 (XXI) adopted in June, 2012, at its 21st Ordinary Session, held in Addis Ababa, in which the Executive Council had requested the PSC to take into account the rights of the child in its agenda and to cooperate actively with the ACERWC. At the meeting, the PSC emphasized the need for the ACERWC to champion initiatives at national, regional and continental levels so as to bring more awareness on children’s rights and welfare to various stakeholders, in particular ensuring protection of the rights of children in armed conflicts. The PSC also called on all AU Member States, that have not yet done so, to sign and ratify the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC).

Consideration of the Situation in South Sudan 13. At the same meeting, the PSC received an update from the Commission on the mediation efforts led by the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) between the Parties to the South Sudan conflict.


d) PSC Retreat on the Review of the Implementation of the Livingstone Formula:

14. Pursuant to Article 20 of the Protocol Relating to the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, the PSC held a retreat in Maseru, in the Kingdom of Lesotho, from 22 to 23 February 2014, to review the implementation of the Livingstone Formula as adopted in 2008, with a view of enhancing its implementation. In the Conclusions of its retreat (Maseru Conclusions on Enhancing the Implementation of the Livingstone Formula for Interaction between the Peace and Security Council and Civil Society Organizations in the Promotion of Peace, Security and Stability in Africa), the PSC emphasized the need for a flexible application of some of the requirements for CSOs participation to facilitate a dynamic, progressive and effective implementation of Article 20 of the PSC Protocol.

e) Review of the Rotation of Chair of the PSC: 15. During the same Maseru retreat, the PSC amended the provisions in the Conclusions of its Working Methods regarding the arrangement for the monthly rotation of the PSC Chair. In this regard, the PSC agreed that the re-elected Members of the PSC shall not be treated as new Members, but as Returning Members and will not queue at the rear on the subsisting order of succession to the Chairmanship.

f) Presentation to the PSC by CISSA on Threats to Peace and Security in Africa:

16. Furthermore, during the Maseru retreat, the Chairperson of the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA), Major General Happy Bonyongwe, briefed the PSC on Threats to Peace and Security in Africa. In particular, the PSC was informed that the major threat confronting the continent was the combination of terrorism and transnational organized crime and resurgence of armed rebellions on the continent. Major General Bonyongwe underscored that no region in the continent was immune from this threat and called for coordinated efforts between governments and their intelligence and security services in addressing the challenge. Furthermore CISSA observed that the above threats could also be addressed successfully if governments make sustained efforts aimed at to entrenching democratic principles, respect for human rights and proper management of diversity, as well upholding the rule of law. B) PSC activities during the month of March 2014, under the chair of the

Republic of Mozambique

17. The Republic of Mozambique assumed the Chair of the PSC on 1 March 2014. During its month, Mozambique chaired five sessions of the PSC, from 421st session to 425th session, participated on behalf of the PSC at the 10th Anniversary Celebration of the Pan-African Parliament, and engaged with partners through Video-Conferences with the EUPSC Chair in preparation of the 7th Annual Joint Consultative Meeting and a Joint informal gathering between the PSC Member States and the Members of the UN Security Council.


a) 421st Meeting:

18. In keeping with the need to constantly improve its working methods, the PSC, at its 421st held on 5 March 2014, adopted the Conclusions of the Maseru retreat on Enhancing the Implementation of the Livingstone Formula on Interaction with Civil Society Organizations in the Promotion of Peace, Stability and Security in Africa. As part of its interaction with the African CSOs in the area of peace and security in Africa, the PSC agreed to hold at least one annual consultative meeting with continental CSO’s, in addition to their participation in its regular open sessions. In this regard, a mapping exercise is currently under way to identify relevant African CSOs active in the peace and security domain in Africa.

b) 422nd Meeting:

Briefing on the situation in CAR:

19. The PSC dedicated its 422nd meeting held on 7 March 2014 to the situation in the CAR. A briefing was provided by the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the Commission for CAR, Gen. Jean-Marie Michel Mokoko who, amongst others, highlighted the challenges then facing MISCA in its stabilization efforts, as well as the conditions needed for it to be successfully transformed into a UN operation by September 2014. He stressed the need to ensure that the UN peacekeeping force to be deployed in the CAR builds on the gains of MISCA and should preserve its African character.

Briefing on the situation in South Sudan:

20. At the same meeting (the 422nd), the PSC was also briefed by the Commission on developments in South Sudan, particularly about the then ongoing efforts to deploy an IGAD-led 2000 strong protection force. The PSC was also informed about the composition of the AU Commission of Inquiry on South Sudan, led by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

c) 423rd Meeting:

21. At its 423rd meeting held on 10 March 2014, the PSC was briefed by the AUHIP on the negotiations regarding the two areas, namely South Kordofan and Blue Nile. The Chair of the AUHIP, former President Thabo Mbeki, informed of the worsening humanitarian situation, the then ongoing clashes, and prevailing stalemate in the negotiations between the Government of Sudan and the SPLM-N. In this regard, Council reiterated its position that a durable solution be found through direct dialogue and strongly urged all involved parties to allow humanitarian assistance to be delivered to the needy populations.

d) 424th Meeting:

22. At its 424th meeting on 12 March 2014, the PSC was briefed by the Political Affairs Department of the AU Commission on the then forthcoming elections in Algeria, Guinea-Bissau, Malawi and South Africa. The Department gave an overview of activities of the AU’s short and long-term election observer missions, as well as an assessment on pre-electoral conditions and needs in the run-up to the elections in


those countries. The Department indicated that, in all, 15 countries in the continent were to go to the polls in 2014 and AU observer missions would be deployed to all of them. Council requested the Department of Political Affairs to regularly brief the Council on elections in Africa, as part of AU’s efforts in conflict prevention.

g) Induction Session for the Newly Elected and Returning Members of the PSC:

23. In line with the established practice, the Commission organized an Induction Session for the newly elected and returning members of the PSC from 14 to 15 March 2014 in Debre Zeit, Ethiopia. The induction provided an opportunity to incoming Council Members to familiarize themselves with the work, working methods, practices and procedures of the PSC. The Programme involved ten (10) newly elected and returning members of the Council: Burundi, Chad, Ethiopia, Gambia, Guinea, Libya, Namibia, Niger, South Africa and Tanzania, accompanied by the outgoing (Lesotho) and incoming (Nigeria) chairpersons of the PSC, as well as the A3 (African Members of the UN Security Council), namely Rwanda, Chad and Nigeria.

e) 425th Meeting:

Briefing on the situation in Somalia:

24. At its 425th meeting, held on 24 March 2014, the PSC was briefed on the situation in Somalia by the Commissioner for Peace and Security and the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the Commission (SRCC) for Somalia and Head of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). The PSC noted the challenging situation AMISOM faced in implementing its mandate. In particular, Council commended the joint Somali National Army (SNA) and AMISOM military operations, which had resulted in the further recovery of key strategic locations within the country from Al Shabaab. 25. Council further commended the Federal Government of Somalia, troop and police contributing countries (Burundi, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Nigeria and Uganda) for their continued commitment to the promotion of peace, security, stability and reconciliation in Somalia.

Review of the United Nations/African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID):

26. At the same 425th meeting, Council was briefed by the Joint Special Representative of the AU and the United Nations for Darfur and Head of the AU-UN Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) on the situation in Darfur and the Review of UNAMID undertaken in pursuance of UN Security Council resolution 2113 (2013), of 30 July 2013. Council reiterated its strong support to UNAMID, and called on the Government of Sudan (GoS) to continue to extend maximum cooperation to the Mission.

f) PSC consultative meetings with other AU Organs and Partners:

27. The Chairperson of the PSC for the month of March 2014, the Ambassador of Mozambique, represented the PSC at the 10th Anniversary Celebrations of Pan-


African Parliament (PAP) held on 18 March 2014 and delivered a statement on peace and security in Africa on behalf of the PSC. He also held a video-conference on 10 March 2014 with the President of the EUPSC in preparation for the 7th annual joint consultative meeting between the two organs then scheduled for 15 May 2014 in Brussels C) PSC activities during the month of April 2014, under the chair of the

Federal Republic of Nigeria

28. Nigeria assumed the chair of the PSC on 1 April 2014. During the month, Nigeria chaired seven sessions of the PSC, from the 426th meeting to 432nd meeting. The month of April 2014 also witnessed the assumption of duty by the newly elected and returning members of the Council, namely Burundi, Chad, Ethiopia, Gambia, Guinea, Libya, Namibia, Niger, South Africa, and Tanzania in line with Council’s practice.

a) 426th Meeting:

29. The 426th meeting of the PSC was held on 7 April 2014 to deal with three agenda items, namely, the consideration and adoption of Council’s work programme for the month; the consideration of the Report of the Human Rights Observers on the Human Rights situation in Mali and consideration of the report on elections in AU Member-States scheduled to hold during 2014. The two reports were presented by the Department of Political Affairs (DPA) of the Commission.

b) 427th Meeting:

30. The 427th meeting of the PSC was held on 9 April to receive a briefing by the Commission on the situation in the CAR and on Chad’s withdrawal of its troops from MISCA in that country. Council was informed by the Commission that the withdrawal followed an attack by some armed elements targeting the Chadian troops on 29

March 2014 and media campaign against that country. The Commission reported that the Chadian troops fired back in self-defense, but that action was inaccurately reported in the international media, resulting in increased climate of hostility against the Chadian troops. It was against that background that Chad announced, on 3 April 2014, to withdraw its contingent from MISCA. 31. Following the briefing, Council, inter alia, condemned the allegations made against the Chadian troops; took note of the intention of the Government of Chad to withdraw its contingent from MISCA; and reiterated its appreciation of the role and the commitment of Chad to sustain its engagement in the efforts to resolve the crisis in CAR.

c) 428th Meeting:

32. Council held its 428th meeting on 11 April, 2014 to consider the situation in South Sudan. Following the briefings by the Commission, the representatives of South Sudan, Eritrea, IGAD and partners, the PSC stressed the need for positive engagement of the parties to the conflict in South Sudan with the IGAD-led mediation team to secure immediate cessation of hostilities and commence the process of inclusive dialogue, including implementation of the relevant agreements reached and


an inclusive process to include the former seven detainees to play a meaningful role. The PSC expressed its support to the Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (MVM) for South Sudan and welcomed the efforts of the African Union Commission of Inquiry led by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

d) 429th Meeting:

33. At its 429th meeting held on 16 April 2014, the PSC was briefed by the Commission on the post-election situation in Guinea Bissau, the upcoming election in Egypt and the situation in Burundi. Regarding the situation in Egypt, Council recalled all its legal instruments on unconstitutional changes of government, as well as its communiqué PSC/AHG/COMM.3(CDXVI) on the situation in Egypt, adopted at its 416th meeting held on 29 January 2014, and agreed to review the overall situation in Egypt following the presentation of the report of the AU High-Level Panel for Egypt. 34. On the situation in Guinea-Bissau, Council decided in the light of the successful holding of Presidential and Legislative elections in the country on 13 April 2014 and the announcement of the presidential winner and assumption of office by the new President, in accordance with the Constitution of Guinea-Bissau, the country will be invited to resume its participation in the AU’s activities, consistent with paragraph 6 of communiqué PSC/PR/COMM (CCCXVIII) adopted by the PSC at its 318th meeting of 17 April 2012.

e) 430th Meeting:

35. The PSC held its 430th meeting on 22 April 2014 in an open session on the theme, “Silencing Guns: Pre-requisite for realizing a Conflict-Free Africa by the Year 2020”. The session was held as a platform to lay the foundation for the formulation of a framework to guide the actions required to achieve the goal of bringing violent conflicts to an end on the continent by the year 2020, as pledged by the African leaders in their Solemn Declaration of the 50th anniversary of the OAU/AU held on 25 May 2013, not to bequeath the burden of conflicts to the next generation of Africans and to end all wars in Africa by 2020.

f) 431st Meeting:

36. The 431st meeting of the PSC was held on 24 April 2014 to consider the request made to the PSC by the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Addis Ababa, through its Note Verbal, Ref.no. 072, 2014-0D, dated 15 April 2014, for Egypt to participate in the open session of the Council on Unconstitutional Changes of Government and Popular Uprisings in Africa: Challenges and Lessons Learned, then scheduled to hold on 29 April 2014. In this respect, based on the clarification provided by the AU Legal Counsel in interpretation of the provisions of Article 30 of the Constitutive Act of the Union, Council decided to reject the request of Egypt to participate in the said session.

g) 432nd Meeting:

37. The 432nd meeting of PSC was held on 29 April 2014 in an open session on the theme: “Unconstitutional Changes of Governments and Popular Uprisings in Africa: Challenges and Lessons Learned”. In the debate, the PSC lamented the spate


of the overthrow of governments through unconstitutional means and their consequences on the population and socio-economic development of the continent. Council further observed the unprecedented nature of uprisings which poses new challenges to Africa and noted that the debate on unconstitutional changes of government was basically an inquiry into the concepts of regime legitimacy and responsiveness to public aspirations and needs. D) PSC activities during the month of May 2014, under the chair of the

United Republic of Tanzania

38. The United Republic of Tanzania, assumed the chair of the PSC on 1 May 2014. During its month, Tanzania chaired six meetings of the PSC, from 433rd meeting to 438th meeting and also chaired the 7th Annual Joint Consultative Meeting between the AU PSC and the EU PSC, held on 15 May 2014 in Brussels. Tanzania also co-chaired the briefing session to the AU PSC on conflict prevention and on EU Maritime Strategy for the Gulf of Guinea (Africa) by the EU Focal Points in Brussels.

a) 434th Meeting:

39. The 434th meeting of the PSC was held on 8 May 2014, in an open session on Children in Armed Conflicts in Africa. The objective of the open session, among others, was to take stock of the situation of children affected by armed conflicts in Africa, to build on existing efforts and explore new opportunities for partnerships to strengthen mainstreaming of child protection within the AU activities, policies and operations. In this context, the PSC and participants, underscored the urgent need to strengthen the capacity of the ACERWC, as well as for the re-doubling of efforts in mobilizing funding for child protection related activities, including within the framework of the 2013-2023 Plan of Action in favour of the children in Africa.

b) 435th Meeting:

40. At its 435th meeting held on 9 May 2014, the PSC was briefed on the evolution of the situation in Darfur. The PSC noted that Darfur had been experiencing an alarming escalation of violence. The PSC reiterated AU’s support to the national dialogue initiative launched by H.E. President Omar Hassan Al Bashir. In this regard, the PSC urged the Darfur armed movements to participate in the national dialogue and urged the Government of Sudan to spare no efforts in facilitating such participation. The PSC also welcomed the joint efforts of the JCM and the AU High-Level Implementation Panel (AUHIP), to facilitate such an inclusive process, and encouraged them, within their respective mandates, to continue coordinating their efforts, to ensure effective synergy.

c) The AUPSC/EUPSC: 7th Annual Joint Consultative Meeting in Brussels

41. On 15 May 2014, the 7th Annual Joint Consultative Meeting between African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) and the European Union Political and Security Committee (EUPSC) was held in Brussels, Belgium. This meeting was held as part of the regular dialogue of the two Organs within the framework of the Africa-EU Partnership to enhance cooperation and synergy in addressing peace and security challenges in Africa and also in Europe. The meeting exchanged views on


ongoing crises in South Sudan, the Horn of Africa, the Central African Republic, Mali and the Sahel region, terrorism, human and drug trafficking, small arms and light weapons, as well as on piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. The PSC was also briefed on the situation in Ukraine. They also agreed to undertake a joint field mission to conflict and post-conflict countries in Africa, starting with a visit to Mali in the second half of 2014. A joint communique was issued at the end of the meeting.

d) 436th Meeting:

42. At its 436th meeting held on 23 May 2014, the PSC was briefed on the evolving political and security situation in Libya. Council also received the report on terrorist activities of Jama'atu Ahlus-Sunna Lidda'Awati Wal Jihad, commonly known as Boko Haram in Nigeria and the renewal of mandate of Regional Cooperation Initiative for the Elimination of the Lord’s Resistance Army (RCI-LRA). 43. On Libya, the PSC noted that the prevailing situation in the country, marked by a proliferation of armed militias, continued to undermine security, weaken state authority and impede economic recovery. In this regard, the PSC strongly condemned all acts of violence in Libya, and called on those concerned to refrain from any further action likely to aggravate the situation. The PSC expressed its support to the Government of Libya and urged it to spare no efforts towards the early resolution of the current crisis. 44. Regarding the terrorist activities of Boko Haram, the PSC strongly condemned the cowardly kidnapping by Boko Haram on 14 April 2014, of over 200 young girls, from a school in the town of Chibok, in the Borno State. The PSC further strongly condemned the abhorrent terrorist attacks against schools and universities, markets and places of worship, carried out by Boko Haram over the past few years, which killed hundreds of people, wounding many others and leading to significant displacements of populations both within the affected areas in Nigeria and towards the neighboring countries. 45. The PSC was also briefed on the implementation of the RCI-LRA. The PSC noted the progress made by the RCI-LRA in the implementation of its mandate, in spite of the numerous challenges being encountered. The PSC also noted the decrease in the number of attacks, killings and abductions carried out by the LRA. Against this backdrop, the PSC decided as embodied in its Communiqué PSC/PR/COMM/1 (CDXXXVI) of 23rd May 2014, to extend the mandate of the RCI-LRA for an additional period of 12 months.

e) 437th Meeting: Celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the AUPSC:

46. On 25th May 2014, the PSC celebrated its 10th Anniversary by holding an open session to take stock of the achievements made and the challenges that it has faced during the past ten years in discharging its mandate. The open session provided an ideal opportunity for the PSC to evaluate its performance (self-introspection), identify challenges and opportunities available with a view to effectively promote and maintain peace and stability throughout Africa. In its Press Statement PSC/PR/BR(CDXXXVII) issued to that effect, among others, Council underscored the need to enhance its coordination with RECs/RMs and maximize each other’s comparative advantages on the basis of the principles of complementarity and


subsidiarity; stressed the need to strengthen AU peace support operations and called upon all AU Member States and the RECs/RMs, to support the process of fully operationalizing APSA, particularly the African Standby Force (ASF) and its Rapid Deployment Capability. The PSC stressed the importance of relevant AU Organs providing additional enabling provisions in the PSC Protocol and agreed to organize a retreat/brainstorming session to identify gaps and make proposals to this effect.

f) 438th Meeting:

47. At its 438th meeting held on 27 May 2014, the PSC received a briefing from the Department of Political Affairs of the Commission on the recent elections that had taken place in Malawi, Guinea Bissau, Algeria and South Africa. In line with its mandate, the AU deployed election observation missions to these countries in consistent with various African Union instruments and policies. In this context, the PSC commended the people and political stakeholders in Malawi, Guinea Bissau, Algeria and South Africa for holding free, fair, transparent and credible elections. Council reiterated the need for Member States that have not ratified the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, which entered into force on 15 February 2012, to take necessary steps to do so, and to comply scrupulously with all relevant AU instruments governing democratic elections on the continent. 48. With regard to the elections in Malawi, specifically, the PSC, at this same meeting, encouraged the stakeholders to follow due process to ensure a peaceful completion of the election process. Concerning Guinea-Bissau, the PSC decided to remain seized of the matter, particularly with regard to the issue of post-conflict reconstruction and development. E) PSC activities during the month of June 2014, under the chair of the

Republic of Uganda

49. The Republic of Uganda assumed the Chair of the PSC on 1 June 2014. During the month, Uganda chaired six meetings of the PSC, from 439th meeting to 444th meeting and the AU PSC/UNSC 8th Annual Joint Consultative meeting held in New York; consultations with the African Members of the UN Security Council (A3); briefing to the African Group in New York and consultation with the UN Peace-building Commission, which were held on the margins of the AUPSC/UNSC 8th Annual Joint Consultative in New York.

a) 8th Annual Joint Consultative Meeting between the AU PSC and the UNSC:

50. On 6 June 2014, the 8th Annual Joint Consultative Meeting between AUPSC and the UNSC was held in New York, under the co-chairmanship of Uganda and Russia. The meeting exchanged views on the situations in CAR, South Sudan, DRC, Mali and Somalia. It also exchanged views on UNAMID, cooperation in combating terrorism in Africa and strengthening cooperation between the AU PSC and the UNSC, within the framework of the AU-UN Partnership. A joint communiqué was adopted at the end of the meeting, which, inter alia, underlined the importance of the relationship between the two Councils in addressing peace and security needs in Africa, affirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, and underscored the


importance of providing support to AU-led peace support operations on a flexible, predictable and sustainable basis.

b) 440th Meeting:

51. At its 440th meeting held on 12 June 2014, PSC received a briefing from the Chair of IGAD Mediation Team on the on-going mediation process in South Sudan. In its Communiqué, the PSC welcomed the outcome of the 26th IGAD Extraordinary Summit, held in Addis Ababa, on 10 June 2014, on the situation in South Sudan. Furthermore, the PSC strongly condemned the continued and flagrant violations of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreements, as well as the widespread atrocities and abuses committed by all sides against innocent civilians and demanded that the warring Parties immediately stop their fighting, fully implement their commitments and display the required political will to advance the political process. The PSC reiterated its readiness, upon recommendation by IGAD, to immediately take targeted sanctions and other measures against any party that continues to undermine the search for a solution to the conflict and fail to honor commitments entered into.

c) 441st Meeting:

52. At its 441st meeting held on 13 June 2014, PSC held an open session on Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD) in Africa. The objective of the session was to sensitize Member States and the international community on the necessity to redouble efforts in consolidating peace, in the post-conflict phase, in order to prevent relapse into violence and to generate peace dividends. At the end of its meeting, the PSC, among others, stressed the importance of African leadership and ownership of the PCRD processes and that of enhanced mobilization of the required financial and other resources; the need for capacity building to formulate and sustain appropriate PCRD projects, as well as for coordination between the AU and the RECs/CSOs and partners, on the one hand, and intra-AU Commission coordination to synergize efforts. The PSC requested that AU peace support operations should always provide for the implementation of quick impact projects in order to ensure early peace dividends.

d) 442nd Meeting:

53. At its 442nd meeting held on 17 June 2014, the PSC considered the situation in eastern DRC and the implementation status of the Peace, Security and Cooperation (PSC) Framework for the DRC and the Region. The PSC noted the progress made in the implementation of the PSC Framework and encouraged the stakeholders to remain steadfastly engaged. 54. Regarding the situation in Guinea-Bissau, the PSC, having considered the report of the Chairperson of the Commission on the situation Guinea-Bissau and in the light of the completion of the transition process and the restoration of the constitutional order, decided, in conformity with the relevant AU instruments, particularly the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, to lift the suspension measure against the participation of Guinea-Bissau in the activities of the AU. In this regard, the PSC invited Guinea-Bissau to immediately resume its participation in the activities of the AU.


55. Concerning Egypt, the Commission presented the final report of the AU High-Level Panel for Egypt to the PSC. The PSC endorsed the report and decided to lift the suspension measure on Egypt and, accordingly, invited Egypt to immediately resume its participation in the activities of the AU, on the understanding that this does not constitute a precedent in terms of adherence to the relevant provisions of AU instruments on unconstitutional changes of Government. 56. Lastly, the PSC decided to extend the mandate of the AU Commission of Inquiry on South Sudan, for an additional period of three months, with effect from 17 June 2014.

e) 443rd Meeting:

57. During its 443rd meeting held on 21 June 2014, in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, on the margins of the ordinary sessions of the Assembly of the Union, the PSC considered the draft report of the PSC on its activities and the state of peace and security in Africa. The PSC adopted the report, which will be submitted to the 23rd ordinary session of the Assembly of the Union in Malabo.

f) 444th Meeting:

58. It should be recalled that the PSC celebrated its tenth anniversary at the level of the Permanent Representatives, on 25 May 2014, in Addis Ababa. On this occasion, the PSC decided to organize a dedicated event at the level of the Heads of State and Government on 25 June 2014, on the margins of the 23rd Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Union. The focus of the celebration in Malabo was three-fold: (a) take stock of the work of the PSC over the past ten years, since its operationalization in 2004, (b) to identify challenges and opportunities for enhancing peace and security in Africa, and (c) chart the way forward, with a particular focus on conflict prevention. IV. MEETINGS OF THE PSC COMMITTEE OF EXPERTS

59. Throughout the reporting period, the PSC Committee of Experts held several meetings in preparations for PSC meetings and annual consultative meetings, as well as to finalize, under the chairmanship of Nigeria, its Rules of Procedure for adoption by the PSC. V. PANEL OF THE WISE 60. According to Article 11 of the PSC Protocol, the Panel of the Wise is mandated to support the efforts of Council and those of the Chairperson of the Commission, particularly in the area of conflict prevention, either at its own initiative or at their request. In this respect, and based on the Modalities for its Functioning as adopted by the PSC at its 100th meeting held on 12 November 2007, the Panel may, inter alia, advise Council and/or the Chairperson of the Commission on all matters within their respective competencies; carry out fact-finding missions as an instrument of conflict prevention; encourage parties, where appropriate, to engage in political dialogue and promote confidence-building measures. The Panel may also pronounce itself on any issue relating to the promotion and maintenance of peace, security and stability in Africa.


61. The three year-term of the current members of the Panel came to an end in December 2013. The members were (i) President Ahmed Ben Bella (North Africa), who passed away on 11 April 2011; (ii) Dr. Salim Ahmed Salim (East Africa); (iii) President Kenneth Kaunda (Southern Africa); (iv) Mrs. Marie Madeleine Kalala-Ngoy (Central Africa); and (v) Mrs. Mary Chinery Hesse (West Africa). The Panel members are supported by a team of “Friends of the Panel of the Wise”. In line with the relevant provisions of the PSC Protocol, the Chairperson of the Commission will submit names of new members for appointment by the Assembly.

VI. STATE OF PEACE AND SECURITY 62. This section provides an overview of the situations prevailing on the ground in Africa. They also cover thematic issues relevant to the promotion of peace, security and stability on the continent.

(a) Madagascar 63. The session of the Assembly in January was held against the background of the completion of the transition process and the restoration of constitutional order in Madagascar, as well as the resumption of the participation of Madagascar in the activities of the AU. The period that followed was characterized by the establishment or restructuring of key state institutions, especially the National Assembly and the High Constitutional Court (HCC), as well as the appointment of a Prime Minister. 64. The final results of the parliamentary elections, announced on 6 February 2014 by the Special Electoral Court of Madagascar (CES), gave the political platform called “MAPAR " , established by former President Andry Rajoelina, a relative majority with 49 out of the 151 Members of Parliament in the National Assembly. In the same decision, the CES cancelled the results of four districts. The by-elections will be held on 29 August 2014. Preparations for the organization of local elections have started. 65. On 18 February 2014, the National Assembly elected its bureau. The platform “MAPAR” obtained the majority (7 out of 13), including the Chairperson of that institution. The election was contested by the Presidential Majority Platform (PMP), close to President Hery Rajaonarimampianina, because the new bureau was elected on the basis of the outdated Rules of Procedure of the Congress of the Transition. It is within this framework that the HCC, on 27 March 2014, took a decision in which it stressed that since the Rules of Procedure were not submitted for constitutional review by the HCC, they were inapplicable, and that the National Assembly should adopt new Rules of Procedure and submit them for constitutional control by the HCC. At its extraordinary session, which started in April 2014, the National Assembly adopted the draft Rules of Procedure proposed by the PMP before the HCC declared them to be in conformity with the Constitution. A new election of the bureau of the National Assembly was held on 3 May 2014 and was won by the candidate of the PMP. 66. Previously, on 11 April 2014, President Hery Rajaonarimampianina had appointed Dr. Christophe Laurent Roger Kolo as Prime Minister, Head of Government. He was proposed by a group of parties which brought together 93 MPs.


That appointment put an end to the differences regarding the interpretation by MAPAR and PMP of the provisions of Article 54 of the Constitution, which stipulates that the President of the Republic appoints the Prime Minister presented by the majority party or group of parties in the National Assembly. On 18 April 2014, a new Government was formed. On 9 May 2014, the new Prime Minister presented the general policy of the State to the National Assembly. 67. The period under review was also marked by the convening of the 9th and last meeting of the International Contact Group on Madagascar (ICG- M) in Antananarivo, on 28 March 2014. Having noted with satisfaction the commitment of the new President to spare no effort to consolidate the remarkable progress made in recent months, the participants stressed the importance of the implementation of outstanding aspects of the Roadmap for ending the crisis in Madagascar. They expressed their support for the proposed convening by the Malagasy authorities of a Donors Conference, urging international partners to participate actively in the Conference and to seize the opportunity to provide all the necessary financial, technical and economic support to Madagascar. Finally, the participants decided to transform the ICG -M into an International Support Group for Madagascar (ISG-M), which would be co -chaired by the AU and Madagascar and which would meet at least twice a year. 68. The Assembly may wish to urge the Malagasy authorities to continue to consolidate the progress made. The Assembly may also wish to appeal to the international community to continue to support the efforts of the Government of Madagascar, especially in the socio-economic field and governance in all its aspects, on the basis of the priorities it has determined. In this regard, the Assembly may wish to note with satisfaction the lifting of sanctions by the EU and the United States against Madagascar on 19 and 27 May 2014, respectively, and the resumption of cooperation with the country.

(b) The Comoros 69. The consolidation process of reconciliation and stability in The Comoros continued. The ceremonies to celebrate the 3rd anniversary of the term of President Ikililou Dhoinine, which took place in Moroni, on 24 May 2014, were another illustration of the harmony in the relationship between the central Government and the Island authorities. The members of the Government, the three Governors of the Autonomous Islands, parliamentarians and notables participated in the ceremonies. 70. The Government initiated the preparatory process for the election of 33 members of the National Assembly of the Union and 51 Councillors of the Autonomous Islands and the municipalities. These harmonized elections are scheduled for November 2014. The budget for these elections amount to a little over 6 million U.S. dollars, which the Government intends to mobilize from international partners. In response to the request made by the Government of The Comoros, the Commission intends to provide support, including technical support, for the organization of these elections; it also plans to deploy a team of observers. In addition, the Commission also intends to provide support for the implementation of key recommendations from the Seminar on National Policy on the Security and Defence Sector Reform in The Comoros, held in Moroni, on 6 and 7 March 2014.


71. Considering the foregoing, the Assembly may wish to appeal to the international community to provide the necessary technical and financial support for the organization of the forthcoming parliamentary and municipal elections. It is also important, given the serious economic difficulties The Comoros continues to face, the Assembly may wish to reiterate its appeal to international partners to honour at the soonest the commitments made at the Donors Conference, held in Doha, Qatar, in April 2010.

(c) Somalia

72. Somalia has continued to make progress towards the consolidation of peace and the promotion of reconciliation, despite the challenges that continue to confront it. On the political front, the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) remains committed to its Six-Pillar agenda, which has now evolved into the New Deal Compact (Vision 2016), a peace building and state building agenda that will culminate in general elections in 2016. Since the last Summit, the FGS has recorded notable achievements, including improved relations with the Interim Jubba Administration (IJA) and the State of Puntland. The FGS is also making considerable progress towards finalizing the establishment of a South West State (SWS) of Somalia. Somalia’s leaders have been engaging local stakeholders in the various regions of the country, an encouraging development that needs to be strengthened. With regards to financial accountability and transparency, the FGS has now established a Financial Governance Committee (FGC). On its part, the Federal Parliament approved the FGS’s work plan and a budget of 218 million dollars for the 2014-2015 fiscal year. 73. As the Assembly will recall, that the UN Security Council adopted, on 12 November 2013, resolution 2124 (2013), which authorized an increase of the AMISOM uniformed personnel from 17,731 to 22,126 and the conduct of joint operations with the Somalia National Army (SNA). The resolution also authorized the provision of non-lethal (food, water, fuel, transport, tents and in-theatre medical evacuation) support to the SNA, when the latter undertakes joint operations with AMISOM. The support package is managed through a Trust Fund to which un-caveated donations are expected by Member States. Following the adoption of the resolution, the Commission, working closely with the FGS, UN and other partners, designed a new Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for AMISOM to guide the implementation of resolution 2124 (2013). 74. In the context of resolution 2124 (2013), the Ethiopian National Defence Forces (ENDF) were formally integrated into AMISOM, joining Burundi, Djibouti, Kenya, Sierra Leone and Uganda as Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs). The joint military operations (code named OP EAGLE) conducted subsequently by AMISOM and the SNA resulted in the recovery of the following eleven (11) districts from the Al-Qaeda linked Al-Shabaab group: Rab Dhuure, Wajid, Ted, Xuduur, Burdubo, Bulo-Burto, Warshik, Qurunlow, Qoryooley, Maxaas and CeelBuur. The SNA have proved to be a valuable partner in the successful conduct of military operations, in spite of the limited logistical support available to it. The Trust Fund established for the SNA has so far received $8 million USD but with estimated costs of over $20 million USD, much more donations are required.


75. The humanitarian situation remains of deep concern. A combination of the delayed April-June rains and other factors are disrupting the planting season and, consequently, causing a rise in food stuff prices, that may lead to a food security situation in the coming months. The humanitarian funding to Somalia is in serious decline. Only 15% of the required resources have reportedly been secured. 76. While progress continues to be made on the ground, military efforts alone will not be enough. Much more needs to be done to hold and sustain the gains that are being made. The international community has a key role to play and have to live up to its New Deal Compact commitments. In particular, it is critical that the FGS be provided with capacity building support and financial resources to enable it foster good governance, deliver security and social services, and boost the national economy. On its part, the AMISOM civilian, police and military components have continued to provide capacity building support to Somalia National Security Forces and public service institutions to enable them stabilize those areas which have been recovered from Al Shabaab, especially by providing immediate local administrative, security and social services. 77. Despite the positive outlook, Somalia is entering a yet demanding phase in its road to stability. Every effort should be made to ensure stability and cohesion among the Somali institutions. It is also important that the Federal Parliament pass the requisite legislation regarding the review of the Constitution, federalism and elections, so that the general elections can be held in 2016, as scheduled. 78. Against this background, the Assembly may wish to welcome the positive developments that have taken place in Somalia and encourage the FGS and other Somali stakeholders to pursue and intensify their efforts in achieving national reconciliation, the formation of a cohesive federation and the conduct of credible general elections in 2016. The Assembly may also wish to express AU’s gratitude to the United Nations and other international partners, including the EU, for their continued support to the AU’s and FGS’ efforts. The Assembly may also wish to reiterate its appreciation to the AMISOM troop and police contributing countries for their continued contribution to the promotion of peace, security and stability in Somalia, as well as to the IGAD and its Member States for their continued engagement. The Assembly may finally wish to appeal to the international community to provide enhanced financial, technical and humanitarian support to Somalia.

(d) Peace process between Eritrea and Ethiopia 79. In its decision on the report of the PSC on its activities and the state of peace and security in Africa, the 22nd Ordinary Session of the Assembly underscored the need for more sustained efforts to overcome the difficulties facing the peace process between Eritrea and Ethiopia and requested the Commission to continue to work towards the implementation of its decisions on the matter. During the period under review, the Commission has continued to closely follow the situation with the view to identifying modalities through which it could meaningfully contribute to the efforts aimed at overcoming the current impasse. 80. Against this background, the Assembly may wish to encourage the Commission to continue to closely monitor the situation and to take appropriate steps


to assist the two countries overcome their differences. The Assembly may also wish to request the PSC to be actively seized with the situation and to review it regularly.

(e) Relations between Djibouti and Eritrea 81. In its decision on the report of the PSC on its activities and the state of peace and security in Africa, the 22nd Ordinary Session of the Assembly underscored the need for more sustained efforts to normalize the relations between Djibouti and Eritrea. The Assembly requested the Commission to continue working towards that end. 82. As a follow-up to this decision, the Commissioner for Peace and Security undertook a visit to Djibouti and Eritrea, on 19 April and 6 May 2014, respectively. During those visits, the Commissioner was received by President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh and President Isaias Afewerki, with whom he discussed issues relating to relations between their two countries. He seized the opportunity to reiterate the AU’s appeals to Djibouti and Eritrea to complete the normalization of their relations, in the context of the Agreement they signed on 6 June 2010 under the auspices of the State of Qatar. The Commissioner was encouraged by the willingness of the two Heads of State to overcome the challenges at hand and promote good neighbourliness, as well as contribute to the promotion of peace and security in the region.

83. The Assembly may wish to welcome the steps taken by the Commission and encourage it to pursue its efforts, as well as request the PSC to review the situation. At the same time, the Assembly may wish to stress the need for the finalization of the findings and recommendations of the State of Qatar, which facilitated the signing of the 6 June 2010 Agreement, on the territorial dispute, in order to expedite their efforts towards the effective implementation of the Agreement and the normalization of their relations.

(f) Horn of Africa – regional approach 84. Over the past few years, the Assembly of the Union has repeatedly called for a regional and holistic approach to the challenges to peace, security and stability in the Horn of Africa, in support of IGAD. To this end, the Assembly requested the Commission, in consultation with the countries of the region and IGAD, as well as relevant international partners, to take the necessary steps with a view to launching this process. It was against this background that the PSC Summit meeting held in New York, on 22 September 2013, decided to broaden the mandate of the AUHIP to promote such an approach, in support of the region. This approach would, among other things, involve the holding of a regional conference on peace, security, stability, cooperation and development. The AUHIP intends to initiate the required consultations with the Chair of IGAD and other stakeholders, with a view to agreeing on the best way forward. 85. The Assembly may wish to reiterate the importance of the regional approach to the peace and security challenges facing the Horn of Africa and to call on all countries concerned to fully commit in favour of this initiative. The Assembly may also wish to encourage the AUHIP to expedite its efforts, with the view to facilitating the


early holding of the envisaged regional conference on peace, security, stability, cooperation and development in the Horn of Africa.

(g) Sudan (Darfur) 86. The situation in Darfur since the beginning of the year has been marked by a spike in the number of clashes between the Government forces and the rebel movements, as well as by an escalation of inter-tribal conflicts and banditry activities by various groups. Such a situation led to many losses of lives, destruction of property and further displacement of civilian population. 87. The AU/UN Joint Special Representative and Chief Mediator for UNAMID has intensified his efforts to encourage the hold out armed movements to join the peace process with a view to reaching a peaceful end to the Darfur conflict. In February, he met in Kampala, Uganda, with three leaders of the major non-signatory movements to explore the ways for them to join the peace process. Further, on 10 March 2014, the same leaders of the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) and the Sudan Liberation Army/Movement (SLA/M) also met with the Chairperson of the AU High-Level Implementation Panel (AUHIP), former President Thabo Mbeki. 88. President Idris Deby Itno of Chad also launched an important initiative by hosting a second meeting from 26 to 30 March 2014 at Um-Jaras, in eastern Chad, in support of peace efforts and in a bid to reconcile different feuding factions inside the Darfur region. While attending this meeting, President Omar Hassan Al Bashir reiterated his call to the non-signatory movements to join the peace process and consequently participate in the proposed National Dialogue in Sudan. 89. In a related development, the 8th meeting of the Implementation Follow-up Committee (IFC) of the Doha Document for Peace in Darfur (DDPD) met in El Fasher, North Darfur, on 28 April 2014, to continue monitoring the progress made in the implementation of the Agreement. Ahead of the IFC meeting, on 27 April 2014, the JSR/JCM convened a meeting of the Facilitators of the Darfur Internal Dialogue and Consultations (DIDC) comprising the State of Qatar, the AU and UNAMID, to review progress made towards the launching of the DIDC. On 26 May 2014, the Implementation Committee of the DIDC was inaugurated. The Facilitators underscored the centrality of the DIDC to promote peace, healing, social cohesion and peaceful co-existence amongst the diverse communities in Darfur. They stressed in particular the potential for the DIDC to feed into the national dialogue proposed by President Al-Bashir. 90. The Assembly may wish to stress the imperative of bringing the violence to an end, and the need for all armed belligerents to take the steps expected of them, particularly in the face of the untold suffering being inflicted on the civilian population. In this respect, the Assembly may wish to express support for the efforts of the JSR/JCM. The Assembly may also wish to reiterate that the Darfur crisis should be addressed within the context of the holistic approach long advocated by the AU. The Assembly may wish to welcome the close collaboration between the AUHIP and the JSR/JCM. Finally, the Assembly may wish to appeal for increased support to meet the humanitarian needs on the ground.


(h) South Sudan 91. During the period under review, the situation in South Sudan remained volatile, characterized by intense fighting, killings, destruction of property, gross violations of human rights and humanitarian crisis, including forced displacement of populations. The Assembly would recall that, following the outbreak of the conflict in South Sudan on 15 December 2013, various efforts have been undertaken by IGAD, with the support of the AU, the UN and other international stakeholders, in order to find a lasting solution. The face-to-face talks between the Parties that began in Addis Ababa on 4 January 2014, under the facilitation of an IGAD Mediation Team led by Ambassador Seyoum Mesfin, and comprising General Lazaro Sumbeiywo and General Mohammed Ahmed Moustafa El Dabi, culminated in the signing, on 23 January 2014, of the Agreements on the Cessation of Hostilities and on the Status of Detainees. The PSC, at its 416th meeting held at the level of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, on 29 January 2014, welcomed the signing of these Agreements and demanded that the Parties faithfully and fully abide by their commitments. 92. On 11 February 2014, the South Sudanese Parties commenced the second round of negotiations in Addis Ababa. The seven members of the former SPLM detainees, who were released few days earlier, joined the political talks as a third party. Subsequently, the remaining four detainees were also released. So far, three sessions of Phase II of the South Sudan Peace Process have been conducted, focusing on political dialogue for national reconciliation and healing. The AU continues to assist the IGAD mediation efforts, including through regular consultations involving both the Chairperson of the Commission and the Commissioner for Peace and Security. The AU is also represented in the Mediation Team. 93. On 5 May 2014, the Parties signed a Recommitment on Humanitarian Matters in the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement. Furthermore, the Parties established two working Committees dealing with security arrangements and humanitarian affairs, on the one hand, and political issues on the other. These Committees have produced working documents on the implementation modalities matrix for the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement and the Framework for the Political Negotiations towards a Settlement of the Crisis in South Sudan, respectively. On 9 May 2014, in Addis Ababa, a landmark Agreement to Resolve the Crisis in South Sudan was signed between President Salva Kiir Mayardit and the leader of the SPLM/A (in opposition), former Vice President Riek Machar, under the auspices of the Chair of IGAD, Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalegn of Ethiopia. Under the Agreement, the Parties committed themselves to immediately cease hostilities, freeze all forces in their current locations and negotiate a Transitional Government of National Unity. 94. In order to facilitate the envisaged political talks, the IGAD Special Envoys organized a multi-stakeholder Symposium to initiate an inclusive phase of the peace process in South Sudan, from 6 to 7 June 2014, in Addis Ababa. The Symposium brought together over 200 participants from a broad range of sections and regions in South Sudan. The objectives of the Symposium were: (i) to initiate the inclusive phase of the IGAD-mediated South Sudan peace talks in a multi-party representative format; (ii) to offer participants thematic, foundational presentations on each of the key areas for negotiation in subsequent talks and allow participants to informally


explore each negotiation issue on the agenda; (iii) to facilitate the sharing of comparative experience from other countries, peace processes and transition arrangements; and (iv) to identify possible areas of common ground on each thematic issue to advance future negotiations. 95. Notwithstanding the Agreements signed by the two Parties, the situation on the ground remains of particular concern. Fighting has intermittently continued, including in Bentiu, Unity State, and in the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) camp in Bor, in April 2014, resulting in the killing of scores of people. There are more than 1,038,000 people internally displaced and 367,260 people who have fled to neighbouring countries. 4 million people also face alarming food insecurity as a result of the fighting. The human rights situation is equally dire. 96. As part of the implementation of the Agreement on Cessation of Hostilities, efforts towards the operationalization of the Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (MVM) and the deployment of the Monitoring and Verification Teams (MVTs), as well as the MVM’s Protection Force (PF) have continued. Most of the Monitoring and Verification Teams (MVTs) have been deployed in various areas. On 27 May 2014, the UN Security Council adopted resolution 2155 (2014), extending the mandate of the UNMISS until 30 November 2014. UNMISS is now empowered to quell the violence, especially against civilians and support implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement. The resolution also increased the strength of UNMISS, including three battalions, with additional responsibility for protecting IGAD’s MVM, as well as implementing the Mission’s overall mandate. 97. The Assembly would recall that the PSC at its 411th meeting in Banjul, on 30 December 2013, requested the Chairperson of the Commission, in consultation with the Chairperson of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) and other relevant AU structures, to urgently establish a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the human rights violations and other abuses committed during the armed conflict and make recommendations on the best ways and means to ensure accountability, reconciliation and healing among all South Sudanese communities. The Commission was appointed, sworn in and had its inaugural meeting on 12 March 2014. The Commission is headed by Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and comprises a number of other African personalities and experts. In resolution 2155 (2014), the UN Security Council mandated UNMISS to coordinate with, and offer technical support to, where appropriate, the AU’s Commission of Inquiry for South Sudan. 98. The Commission of Inquiry has undertaken two visits to South Sudan, from 24 to 28 April 2014, and 19 to 30 May 2014, respectively. It seized the opportunity to interact with various stakeholders, including with President Salva Kiir, members of his Government, leader of the SPLM/A (in opposition), Dr. Riek Machar, members of civil society, church leaders, and community organizations. It also consulted with leaders of the regional countries. The Commission also met, in Addis Ababa, with Ms. Navy Pillay, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Mr. Adama Dieng the UN Secretary-General’s Special Adviser for the Prevention of Genocide. 99. Against this background, the Assembly may wish to express its deep concern at the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in the country. The Assembly may wish to echo the statement made by the 26th Extraordinary Summit of IGAD,


held in Addis Ababa on 10 June 2014, expressing deep disappointment at the failures of both the Government and the SPLM/A in Opposition to honor their commitments to date, to engage in the peace process meaningfully toward a political resolution of the crisis, and call on them to live up to their commitments and the expectations of their people. The Assembly may also wish to reiterate AU’s appreciation to IGAD and to its Chair, Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalegn of Ethiopia, and the other leaders of the region, as well as the IGAD Mediation Team for their sustained efforts and commitment. The Assembly may wish to reiterate its full support to the AU Commission of Inquiry and to stress the need for the Parties to extend full cooperation to it.

(i) Implementation of AU Roadmap on Sudan-South Sudan

100. The last Ordinary Session of the Assembly took place against the backdrop of significant progress in the implementation of the Cooperation Agreements signed, in Addis Ababa, on 27 September 2012, within the framework of the AU Roadmap adopted by the PSC on 24 April 2012 and endorsed by the Security Council on 2 August 2012. The Roadmap required the Sudanese Parties to implement a series of measures, within a clearly defined timetable, to halt hostilities and reduce tension, build confidence between the two States, and complete negotiations on the

outstanding issues, under the facilitation of the AU High‐Level Implementation Panel (AUHIP). 101. During the period under review, the two countries have continued to work towards the implementation of the September 2012 Agreements and the promotion of good neighbourly relations, in a context marked by the outbreak of a conflict in South Sudan since December 2013. In this respect, President Salva Kiir Mayardit undertook a visit to Sudan on 4 April 2014 to meet President Omar Hassan Al Bashir. The two Presidents discussed the security situation along the border and how to ensure the protection of the oil installations. President Kiir noted with appreciation the effective role of Sudan in the IGAD-led negotiations aimed at resolving the crisis in South Sudan, as well as the Government of Sudan receiving South Sudanese refugees and thanked President Bashir issuing an order that allows South Sudanese fleeing the war to go into Sudan as citizens rather than refugees. This visit followed by the two Summit meetings between President Salva Kiir Mayardit and President Omar Hassan al Bashir, held in Khartoum, on 3 September 2013, and in Juba, in 22 October 2013, during which the two Presidents agreed on a number of steps to consolidate the progress made in the normalization of the relations between the two countries. 102. As the Assembly is aware, the AUHIP has been engaging Sudan and South Sudan to cooperate with the AU Team of Experts (AUTE) appointed by the Commission to provide a non-binding opinion on the status of the five disputed border areas. In spite of the efforts made, the Parties have not yet exchanged their final submissions to enable the AUTE finalize its report. On its part, the AUTE met in Addis Ababa on 23 March 2014, and agreed to visit one of the disputed areas. A request was made to this effect to the Parties through the AUHIP. Sudan, in April 2014, accepted the request from the AUHIP Chair for the team to undertake the envisaged visit. In addition, the Commission has continued to engage the National Border Commissions established by Sudan and South Sudan, and their representatives to the Joint Border Commission and the Joint Demarcation Committee established under the September 2012 Cooperation Agreements, which


will oversee the demarcation exercise. The AU Border Programme is already extending technical assistance to each State to build its border management capacity. Efforts by AUBP Technical Team (AUBPTT), which was deployed on the ground on August 2013, to conclusively determine the centerline of the Safe Demilitarized Border Zone (SBDZ), have not registered progress. Furthermore, the Petroleum and Monitoring Committee (PMC), which is mandated to oversee the implementation of the Oil and Other Economic Related Matters Agreement, convened the 4th meeting of the Parties in May 2014 in Addis Ababa. 103. Sudan and South Sudan have not made much progress in their efforts to resolve the Abyei issue. The Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) has not met since May 2013 when the Ngok Dinka Chief was killed. The AU AJOC Facilitator has made several attempts to convene the meetings to no avail. His last engagement with the two sides was in May 2014. Meanwhile, the Ngok Dinka community has unsuccessfully pursued attempts to have its unilateral referendum of October 2013 endorsed. The delay in the implementation of the June 2011 Agreement has led to an administrative and security vacuum in the Abyei Area, threatening relations on the ground between the local communities, as illustrated by the sporadic clashes took place in the Area around February and March 2014. The situation in Abyei is further compounded by the impact of the current crisis in South Sudan. The PSC has repeatedly expressed its support for the AUHIP Proposal of 21 September 2012, as representing a fair and workable solution, and rejected any unilateral action by either side. 104. The AUHIP continues to assist with the Joint Approach through the Tripartite Committee established by the Cooperation Agreement. The mandate of the Committee is to develop modalities to be utilized for the Joint Approach to the international community for the assistance to the two countries on: (i) transitional financial assistance for Sudan, (ii) development support for South Sudan, (iii) comprehensive debt relief, and (iv)the lifting of economic sanctions imposed on Sudan. The work of the Tripartite Committee has been strengthened by the commitment of the two Presidents who made a joint request for support from the international community. Members of the Tripartite have participated in various meetings to discuss this matter. During its last meeting held in Addis Ababa from 31 May to 3 June 2014, the Committee proposed an African-led outreach programme to supplement their efforts for the Joint Approach. 105. Armed clashes have continued in the Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan States of Sudan, particularly in April and May 2014, leading to further displacements of populations. The situation in South Sudan has exacerbated the humanitarian situation with over 17,000 people seeking shelter in South Kordofan and Blue Nile States. The AUHIP has continued to engage the Sudanese parties, namely the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/North (SPLM/N). In February 2014, the AUHIP developed a proposed Draft Framework Agreement to which the Government responded to, while the SPLM/N submitted an alternative document. At its 423rd meeting held on 10 March 2014, the PSC urged the SPLM/N to respond to the Draft Framework Agreement. It also requested the AUHIP to continue to assist the Parties to reach an agreement by 30 April 2014. The Parties met again between 21 and 30 April 2014, to negotiate on the basis of the AUHIP February Draft Framework Agreement. The two sides agreed on a number of issues, including the formation of joint humanitarian, security and political


committees, as well as a joint committee to discuss the inclusion of SPLMN/N in the National Dialogue. The draft also highlighted a number of areas of disagreement that still require further internal consultations. The AUHIP plans to reconvene the parties to finalize the outstanding issues. 106. As the Assembly is aware, the AUHIP is mandated to support democratization processes in both Sudan and South Sudan. During the period under review, the AUHIP took a number of steps in support of efforts at national dialogue and democratization in Sudan, in the context of the announcement made by President Al Bashir on 27 January 2014 regarding the convening of a national dialogue to address the challenges facing Sudan. The Sudan National Consultative Dialogue formally started on 6 April 2014, with the convening of a National Political Parties Summit, chaired by President Omar Hassan Al Bashir. In a communiqué issued on 9 April 2014, the Chairperson of the Commission welcomed this step. In order to support these efforts, the AUHIP met with President Al Bashir in Khartoum, from 24 to 26 February 2014. The AUHIP undertook a subsequent visit from 16 to 18 May 2014, during which it received briefings from senior Government officials on the various steps for the National Dialogue and a possible role for the AUHIP. The AUHIP also met with leaders of political parties, prominent Sudanese actors and civil society groups with whom it discussed the opportunities that the National Dialogue presented, as well as the challenges to be overcome, notably those relating to the inclusion of the armed movements in Darfur, South Kordofan and Blue Nile. They requested the AUHIP to play a role that would guarantee an open and democratic process. However, recent developments, including cases of arrests, media censorship and protests, have led the opposition political parties that had signed onto the dialogue process to hold consultations during the first week of June 2014 to assess the situation and demand the creation of an environment conducive to the success of the process. 107. In conclusion, the Assembly may wish to encourage Sudan and South Sudan to continue working towards the full implementation of their Cooperation Agreements and to spare no efforts in overcoming the difficulties encountered, including the issue of Abyei, the demarcation of the border and other related issues. The Assembly may also wish to stress the importance of the early resolution of the conflict in the Two Areas and Darfur in Sudan and to call on the parties to extend full cooperation to the AUHIP. Finally, the Assembly may wish to express support to the National Dialogue initiative launched by the Government of Sudan and to call on all stakeholders to work towards the success of this initiative and to desist from any action that could undermine this important initiative.

(j) Burundi 108. Burundi is preparing to organize, in the course of 2015, its third post-civil war elections. The period which covers the two terms of the institutions of the country and which will come to an end in 2015 was marked by significant progress, particularly in the political and reconciliation areas. In this regard, it should be noted that, in accordance with the 2000 Arusha Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation and the 2002 Ceasefire Agreement, the reform of the army and the security services was successfully carried out, enabling, inter alia, Burundi to contribute to peacekeeping operations of the AU and the United Nations. Similarly, all the democratic institutions provided for in the Constitution of March 2005 have been established.


109. Under the auspices of the United Nations, and in order to ensure a peaceful preparation of the elections, a roadmap was adopted by all the political actors and the civil society at a meeting in Kayanza, from 11 to 13 March 2013. It was within this framework and pursuant to a decision of the Council of Ministers, adopted at its meeting held on 9 and 10 October 2013, that the Government submitted to the National Assembly, on 21 March 2014, a bill to revise the Constitution of 18 March 2005. The bill was not adopted by Parliament. The Law provides for the proposal to be resubmitted to the National Assembly only after a year. This rejection exacerbated tension between the political actors. 110. In conformity with the relevant provisions of the PSC Protocol, the Commission initiated a number of steps, including through the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the Commission. Furthermore, the PSC considered the issue at its 429th meeting, held on 16 April 2014, following a briefing by the Commission. 111. For its part, the Burundian Government took steps to reassure the countries of the region and the international community, including the AU, about the situation in Burundi. On 25 April 2014, the National Assembly unanimously adopted a revised Electoral Code, in line with the Kayanza Consensus. Mention should also be made of the signing, on 9 June 2014, of a document called the ''General Principles for the Proper Conduct of the 2015 Elections''. These steps attest to a shared commitment to conduct a democratic, free and fair democratic process. It was also in this context that President Pierre Nkurunziza, among others, dispatched an emissary to Addis Ababa in the person of Mr. Laurent Kavakure, Minister of External Relations and International Cooperation of the Republic of Burundi. The Minister informed the Chairperson of the Commission about the progress made by his country on the path of peace building and reconciliation and the on-going efforts to hold free, fair and peaceful elections next year. He stressed his country's determination to preserve the gains made. He conveyed to the Chairperson of the Commission an invitation of President Pierre Nkurunziza for her to pay an official visit to Burundi. It is in this context that the Commissioner for Peace and Security paid a visit to Bujumbura from 15 to 16 June 2014. During that visit, the Commissioner held talks with President Pierre Nkurunziza. The President seized that opportunity to underline the importance of preserving the achievements made by Burundi in the implementation of the Arusha Agreement. The President also reiterated his commitment and that of his Government to consolidate the important gains made. He called on the AU to provide enhanced support to his country, notably with respect to the forthcoming elections and post-conflict reconstruction, including in the area of education. Upon his return, the Commissioner for Peace and Security briefed the PSC during its 442nd meeting, held on 17 May 2014 on his visit to the country. 112. The Assembly may wish to welcome the commitment made by the Burundian authorities to continue to work towards peace building and reconciliation in their country and encourage all the stakeholders to pursue their efforts, within the framework of the landmark Arusha Agreement of August 2000 for Peace and Reconciliation and the 2002 Ceasefire Agreement and to address the challenges at hand, including the recently expressed concerns about the security aspects, for the successful organization of the 2015 general elections. The Assembly may also wish to reiterate the determination of the AU to continue to support the Burundian


stakeholders and people in their efforts to promote sustainable peace, stability and development within this framework, and to welcome the envisaged dispatch, by the Commission, of long and short term observers to monitor the electoral process.

(k) Democratic Republic of Congo/Great Lakes Region

113. The previous session of the Assembly of the Union was held in a context marked by positive developments in the situation in the East of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), following the conclusion of the Dialogue between the Congolese Government and the M23 in Nairobi on 12 December 2013. The Assembly stressed the need for urgent action to eliminate the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and the other armed groups in the DRC so as to ensure a lasting stability in the Great Lakes Region. In the meantime, the 5th Ordinary Session of the Heads of State and Government of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), held in Luanda on 14 and 15 January 2014, affirmed its commitment to ensure the implementation of the commitments made under the Peace Security and Cooperation (PSC) Framework for the DRC and the Region, urged the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) and MONUSCO to intensify the operations to neutralize the FDLR, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and the other negative forces operating in the East of the DRC and reaffirmed its support to the team of Envoys for the Great Lakes Region, comprising the AU, the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU) and the United States of America (USA). 114. During the period under consideration, the Congolese authorities, with the support of the UN and their African and international partners, continued the efforts to reform the Defense and Security Sector. This process assisted in strengthening the capacity of the national army. The offensive launched, on 16 January 2014, against the ADF, the Ugandan rebels based in eastern DRC for several years, with the support of the Intervention Brigade of MONUSCO, has made it possible to dislodge them from most of the areas they previously controlled. Similarly, several groups of Maï-Maï active in some provinces of the DRC, notably in Katanga, North and South Kivu, also gave themselves up to the FARDC. The FDLR is also one of the negative forces to be neutralized. After this group offered to disarm, a DDR process, supported by the Government and MONUSCO, was initiated. However, the results achieved so far are limited. Should no significant progress be made in earnest, it is planned to use force to neutralize the FDLR, in accordance with the relevant provisions of resolution 2098 (2013). 115. Furthermore, and pursuant to the PSC Framework, the Congolese Government took measures to honour its commitments under the Conclusions of the Direct Dialogue in Kampala. Within that framework, an Amnesty Law was passed and promulgated in February 2014. The first measures for its application were taken on 19 April 2014 and since then many people have benefited from these measures. Similarly, the Government intensified the efforts to extend its authority throughout the national territory through the redeployment of the administration, the army and security services in the areas previously controlled by the M23 and armed militias. The Government is also endeavouring to fight more effectively against impunity, including within the armed forces, and to promote good governance. As regards the DDR process, the lack of resources hinders the on-going efforts.


116. At the regional level, the Regional Oversight Mechanism for the implementation of the PSC Framework held its third meeting in Addis Ababa, on 31 January 2014, on the margins of the 22nd Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Union. The meeting particularly adopted the Plan of Action prepared by the Technical Support Committee (TSC) and made the "commitment to continue concerted efforts, through a multidimensional approach to implement the PSC Framework, including through a broad political dialogue on issues of common interest ...." The meeting also urged the countries of the region and the international community to devote particular attention to development issues, especially those for women and children. At that meeting, Kenya and Sudan signed the PSC Framework, thereby becoming members of the Regional Oversight Mechanism. In addition, and as part of the efforts to ensure ownership of the process, the TSC held its 7th meeting, from 20 to 23 May 2014, in Goma, North Kivu. 117. On their part, the team of Special Envoys undertook several sensitization and advocacy missions to the countries of the region. They also participated in the meetings of the International Contact Group on the Great Lakes Region, held in The Hague on 5 and 6 March 2014, and in London on 13 June 2014, respectively. Similarly, the Forum on Private Investment to support the implementation of the PSC Framework was held in Addis Ababa, on 11 June 2014, following the launch of the Platform of Women of the Region, on 30 January 2014. Within the same framework, Burundi hosted the "Forum of Hope for Youths of the countries of the region," on 31 May 2014. 118. The Assembly may wish to welcome the progress made in the implementation of the security aspects of the PSC Framework and to urge the countries of the region to intensify their efforts in this direction. In this regard, the Assembly may wish to reaffirm the crucial importance of the neutralization of the armed groups still active in eastern DRC, and which pose a serious threat to that country and to the region as a whole. The Assembly may also wish to express satisfaction at the follow-up actions taken by the Congolese Government within the framework of the Conclusions of the Kampala Dialogue, encourage it to pursue its efforts and appeal for greater international mobilization in support of these efforts, particularly the DDR component. The Assembly may also wish to welcome the initiatives for the implementation of other aspects of the PSC Framework, particularly those relating to development, women and youth, and encourage all stakeholders to intensify efforts to this end.

(l) Central African Republic (CAR) 119. The previous session of the Assembly of the Union was informed about the launch of the African-led International Support Mission to the Central African Republic (MISCA), on 19 December 2013, pursuant to the communiqué adopted by the 385th meeting of the PSC, held on 19 July 2013. This deployment, preceded by that of French troops of the Sangaris operation, on 6 December 2013, took place in a context of particular concern, characterized by violent clashes after the offensive launched by the anti-Balaka group against the Seleka, particularly in Bangui, on 5 December 2013. This offensive triggered a series of incidents, which undermined the impact of the efforts made that far to allow for a peaceful transition and the restoration of constitutional order.


120. The decisions taken at the summit of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), held in Ndjamena, on 9 and 10 January 2014, helped in reviving the political process, especially through the election, on 20 January 2014, by the National Transitional Council (CNT), of Mrs. Catherine Samba-Panza to the position of Head of State of the Transition. This election was followed, on 24 January 2014, by the appointment of Mr. André Nzapayeke as Prime Minister and the formation of a new Government of the Transition. In his message to the CNT, on 6 May 2014, on the occasion of her first 100 days as the Head of the Central African Republic, Mrs. Catherine Samba-Panza pointed out that the initiatives of the Government of the Transition made it possible to secure external support, both at the financial and diplomatic levels. At the same time, she recognized the limits of the actions taken, promising to reshuffle the Government and intensify efforts to promote national reconciliation and disarmament of armed groups. On 30 May 2014, the Government of the Transition requested the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate the situation in the CAR since 1 August 2012. For its part, the CNT continued its activities, considering in particular the draft Constitution and the Finance Law for 2014. 121. As agreed by CAR stakeholders, the elections to mark the restoration of the constitutional order should take place in February 2015. It should be noted that there was a delay in the implementation of the timetable by the National Elections Authority (ANE), which was subsequently revised. Persistent insecurity, as well as financial and logistical constraints, contributed largely to the delay. The establishment of a consultation framework, composed of representatives of the Government, political parties and civil society, is expected to facilitate a regular review of the situation and agreement on the measures to be taken to meet the deadline for elections. 122. During the period under consideration, the activities of the armed groups, particularly the anti-Balaka, aggravated the regional and religious polarization. Thousands of Muslims had to be relocated towards the North of the CAR, escorted by MISCA, because of the continued threats of the anti-Balaka. The withdrawal of the Chadian contingent of MISCA, announced in early April 2014, subsequent to the malicious and unfounded campaign against Chad by some actors, created a security vacuum. On 9 and 10 May 2014, the members of the ex-Seleka, meeting in Ndélé, in the North-West of the CAR, announced a restructuring of the movement and the appointment of a new military command. 123. The efforts to strengthen MISCA continued to be on course. The strength of the Mission at present is 5785 of military, police and civilian elements out of a total authorized number of 6,910. Measures have been taken to replace, as soon as possible, the Chadian contingent. On 1 February 2014, the Commission organized a Donors’ Conference for the MISCA, which made it possible to mobilize nearly 315 million U.S. Dollars. The MISCA, in collaboration with the French forces, managed to curb the violence, especially in the capital, Bangui, and to protect the main corridor linking the CAR to the Cameroon border. However, the security situation remains volatile as shown by a series of incidents in Bangui in May 2014, following the assassination, on 24 May 2014, of three Muslims followed by the attack on the Church Notre Dame Fatima of Bangui, on 28 May 2014. Thanks to the action of MISCA and the Sangaris operation, the situation has now returned to normal. Inside the country, the operations of international forces have maintained a lull, though the situation remains tense in the North West and the Centre, where repeated clashes


between anti-Balaka and ex-Seleka continue to cause casualties and massive displacements of people. The MISCA is also making sustained efforts to implement the other aspects of its mandate, particularly with regard to the observance and promotion of human rights, the restoration of the State authority and support to DDR operations and Security Sector Reform (SSR). 124. The humanitarian and human rights situation remains a source of concern. Numerous abuses continue to be perpetrated against the civilian population. Nearly 2.6 million people are in need of immediate humanitarian assistance. However, it is worth noting the commencement of the return of some to Bangui. The number of IDPs in the capital fell from 276 500 to 177 890, and from 62 sites to 45, a decrease of about 100,000 displaced persons resulting in the closure of 17 IDP sites. 125. On 21 March 2014, the International Contact Group on the CAR (ICG-CAR), co-chaired by the AU and the Republic of the Congo, held its fourth meeting in Brazzaville. The meeting stressed the need for a more sustained political commitment by the CAR stakeholders to help build on the gains made at the security level, including the necessary measures to isolate spoilers and to implement SSR and DDR programmes. Participants welcomed the continued efforts of the leaders of ECCAS and recognized the crucial role of the region in the resolution of the CAR crisis. They also expressed their deep appreciation to the international partners who provide financial, logistical and technical support for the deployment and operations of MISCA. The 5th meeting of the Group is scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa, on 7 July 2014. 126. Other initiatives were also taken by the international community to support the CAR. In this regard, it is worth noting the adoption of UN Security Council resolution 2149 (2014), on 10 April 2014, establishing the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), which will take over MISCA on 15 September 2014. MINUSCA should initially be composed of a 10,000 troops and 1,800 police personnel. The AU and the United Nations are working to ensure a smooth transition between MISCA and MINUSCA. For its part, the deployment of EUFOR-RCA was declared operational on 30 April 2014 with a total strength of 800 personnel expected in June 2014. The European troops now ensure the protection and security of the airport of Bangui and the immediate vicinity. Financially and economically, the CAR received aid provided by the States of the Central African region, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other partners, which made it possible to pay the salaries of civil servants and meet other pressing needs. 127. The Assembly may wish to reiterate the concern of the AU about the persistent insecurity in the CAR and its consequences both for humanitarian and human rights situation, as well as the growing polarization in the CAR. The Assembly may wish to urge the CAR political and other stakeholders to demonstrate the necessary political will and determination to rebuild the social fabric and promote lasting reconciliation between all the components of the CAR population. In this regard, the Assembly may again wish to underscore their primary responsibility and that the international community’s role is only to support the national efforts. Similarly, the Assembly may wish to stress the urgent need for the disarmament of armed militias, to enable the establishment of conditions conducive to the successful completion of the political process.


128. The Assembly may also wish to, once again, commend MISCA for its excellent work in difficult conditions and for the sacrifices made. It may also wish to express gratitude to Troop and Police Contributing Countries, as well as to the regional leaders, including President Idriss Deby Itno, current Chairman of ECCAS, and President Denis Sassou Nguesso, ECCAS Mediator in the CAR crisis, for their resolute commitment and tireless efforts. The Assembly may wish to express its gratitude to all Member States and international partners which provide financial and logistical support to MISCA. The Assembly may wish to welcome the planned UN operation and the mobilization of other international actors for the CAR and encourage the intensification of this international commitment. Similarly, it may wish to welcome the decision of the Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council of 9 May 2014, acting under resolution 2134 (2014) of 28 January 2014, to impose sanctions against some individuals and encourage the adoption of similar measures against other CAR actors who undermine the peace and reconciliation process.

(m) Implementation of the Regional Cooperation Initiative for the Elimination of the LRA

129. There has been steady progress towards the elimination of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). During the period under review, the Regional Task Force (RTF) of the Regional Cooperation Initiative for the Elimination of the LRA (RCI-LRA) neutralized a number of LRA fighters, including senior commanders. Towards the end of 2013, the RTF took out of action “Maj Gen” Okot Odhiambo, LRA’s second-in-command, who was also indicted by the International Criminal Court. Owing to RTF pressure, the LRA has been forced to split into small, highly mobile groups, without permanent bases. This has further degraded LRA’s fighting capacity and significantly reduced the number of abductions and killings, resulting in a relative improvement in the security and humanitarian situation in south-eastern CAR and north-eastern DRC. In view of this encouraging developments on the ground, the Commission has increasingly begun to focus on the long-term objective of rehabilitating the LRA-affected areas in CAR, DRC and South Sudan. 130. The Joint Coordination Mechanism (JCM), which comprises the Ministers of Defense of the affected countries and is tasked to ensure strategic level coordination, held its 4th meeting in Addis Ababa, from 24 to 25 March 2014, under the chairmanship of the Commissioner for Peace and Security. The JCM reviewed progress made in the implementation of the RCI-LRA and the challenges being encountered. It agreed on practical steps to strengthen the Initiative, particularly by enabling the RTF to conduct more robust operations against the LRA. 131. Collaboration between the Commission and AU partners continues to be strong, in support of the operations of the RTF, activities of the JCM, and the Special Envoy for the LRA Issues. In this respect, it is worth mentioning the new EU contribution of about 2 million Euros, covering the period from January 2013 to May 2014; the enhancement of the U.S. Government support to the RTF, with the deployment of 150 Special Forces soldiers, along with some re-fuelling aircraft and CV-22 Osprey aircraft, to facilitate the rapid deployment of RTF units for quicker assault on LRA camps and groups.


132. However, the emergence of political crises in CAR and South Sudan, in December 2013, affected the RCI-LRA momentum, giving the LRA a breathing space to re-organize, resupply and resume atrocities against civilians in the CAR. The violence in the CAR between Seleka and anti-Balaka and the civil war in South Sudan caused, among others, a reduction in the overall strength of the RTF troops as some of the RTF troops from Uganda and South Sudan were redeployed to other parts of South Sudan. As a result, the LRA was able to carry out a number of attacks against civilians. For instance, on 29 January 2014, a group of LRA elements attacked Obo town, a few kilometers away from the tactical base of the Ugandan contingent and US Special Forces, and looted food and essential non-food items before fleeing. In February 2014, the LRA carried out several attacks in north-eastern CAR, and abducted many civilians.

133. Elsewhere, LRA splinter groups continue to carry out frequent small-scale raids in north-eastern DRC, and along the DRC border with the CAR, as well as towards the South Sudan border, to loot food and non-food items for survival. South Sudan has largely been free of LRA activities since the isolated LRA attack in the counties of Ezo and Tumbura, in Western Equatorial State, in early November 2013, where the rebels killed several persons and abducted few others. It is against this background that the PSC, at its meeting held on 23 May 2014, decided to extend the mandate of the RCI-LRA for another period of 12 months. 134. Against this background, the Assembly may wish to welcome the progress made by the RCI-LRA in the implementation of its mandate and to commend the countries concerned for their continued commitment. The Assembly may also wish to express gratitude to the partners extending support to the RCI-LRA and to encourage them to continue providing the necessary assistance. Finally, the Assembly may wish to stress the importance of renewed efforts to rehabilitate the affected areas and the mobilization of the required resources.

(n) Côte d’Ivoire 135. Côte d'Ivoire continued to make progress towards peace building and national reconciliation. At the security level, the insecurity index fell from 1.4 in September 2013 to 1.2 in April 2014. It is expected that this trend will continue, especially with the gradual deployment within the country of the Central Command of Operational Decisions (CCDO), which has proven itself in Abidjan in the fight against major banditry and highway criminals. The Security Sector Reform (SSR) and Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) programmes are continuing. In 2013, 27,000 ex-combatants have been reintegrated; and it is planned to disarm, demobilize and reintegrate additional 40,000 ex-combatants in 2014. However, it is important to take up the challenges related to the return of traditional hunters (Dozo) to their traditional activities. Indeed, following the post-election crisis of 2011, the Dozos acted as auxiliary forces of the security services and various reports, particularly those of the United Nations, have accused them of committing abuses against civilians. 136. One of the major events in the coming period will be the presidential election scheduled for October 2015. Discussions have already begun among the Ivorian actors so as to reach a consensus on the various issues related to the election,


including the establishment of a new Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), the revision of the voters list and some provisions of the Constitution. 137. Within the framework of national reconciliation, the President of the Republic has extended, for a period of 12 months, the mandate of the Dialogue, Truth and Reconciliation Commission (CDVR), so that it completes its mission. The political dialogue between the Government and the main opposition party, the Ivorian Popular Front (FPI), briefly interrupted by the FPI in March 2014, following the transfer to the International Criminal Court (ICC) of Charles Ble Goude, ex- leader of the "Young Patriots", resumed on 22 May 2014. Significant progress has been made particularly on the release of personalities close to former President Laurent Gbagbo who were still detained, the repatriation of persons in exile, the clearance of sites and dwellings illegally occupied, as well as the release of frozen assets. Both parties were committed to encourage dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues. 138. It is important that the Assembly welcomes the positive evolution of the situation in Côte d'Ivoire. The Assembly may also encourage the Ivorian stakeholders to continue and intensify the efforts made to deepen national reconciliation and ensure the smooth preparation of the forthcoming elections.

(o) Guinea-Bissau

139. Following a two-year Transition, ushered in after the coup d’état of 12 April 2012, Guinea-Bissau has completed a critical phase in the process of ending the crisis which affected the country, with the organization of presidential and legislative elections. The organization of these elections, which had been postponed several times, led to the restoration of constitutional order. 140. The electoral process went through several stages. The voter registration, which began on 1 December 2013, ended respectively on 8 February, at the national level, and on 10 February 2014 within the diaspora, that is more than one and a half months after the due date for its conclusion. Despite its slowness, this operation was a success as more than 90% of 810,000 citizens of voting age were registered. At the same time, the two institutions responsible for the technical preparation of the elections redoubled their efforts to be within the deadlines. This is the Office of Technical Support to the Electoral Process (GTAPE), in charge of the census and preparation of the electoral register, and the National Elections Commission (CNE), responsible for overseeing the census process and the organization of elections. The improved manual census carried out by the GTAPE and supported by the National Institute of Statistics, from 1 December 2013 to 10 February 2014, made it possible to register 775,508 voters. In order to secure the elections, another major concern, a joint command was established under the oversight of the National Police integrating the National Guard, the ECOWAS Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ECOMIB), members of the AU and UN Offices and the Bissau-Guinean armed forces, if necessary. The electoral campaign took place, from 22 March to 11 April 2014, in a calm atmosphere. However, it was overshadowed by the death, on 4 April 2014, of Mr. Kumba Yala, former President of the Republic, the founder and honorary Chairman of the Social Renovation Party (PRS). 141. Ahead of the elections, President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana, Chairman of ECOWAS, visited Bissau, on 10 April 2014, to ensure that the required measures


were taken by the authorities of the Transition and to reaffirm the continued support and commitment of ECOWAS to Guinea-Bissau. Moreover, there was a strong involvement of the international community in the election observation. The AU deployed 56 observers, including 9 long term observers, under the leadership of former President Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique. On its part, ECOWAS deployed 220 observers, including 9 long term ones. Observers were also deployed by the European Union (EU), the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) and by East Timor, New Zealand, the United States and Great Britain. 142. The first round of the presidential election, along with the legislative elections, was held on 13 April 2014. These elections took place in an atmosphere of calm and discipline. Voters showed particular enthusiasm which resulted in a turn-out of over 70%. There were no voting irregularities that compromised the credibility of the poll. Regarding the legislative elections, of the 102 seats in the National People's Congress (NPC), the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC) won 57; PRS 41; the Democratic Convergence Party (PCD) 2; the New Democracy Party (PND) 1 and the Union for Change (UM) 1. As regards the first round of the presidential election, José Vaz Màrio , the PAIGC candidate, obtained 252,260 votes, that is 40.99 % of the votes cast , followed by Mr. Nunu Gomes Nabiam, independent candidate, who totaled 154,174 votes that is 25.14 % of votes. As the two candidates could not get the majority of votes, they faced each other in a second round, which took place on 18 May 2014. The different election observation teams concluded that the second round of the presidential election was held in acceptable conditions of freedom, transparency and credibility in line with international and continental standards. On the basis of the final results proclaimed by the CNE on 23 May 2014, José Màrio Vaz was declared the winner of the presidential election with 364,394 votes, that is 61.9 % of the votes, while his opponent obtained 224,089 votes, that is 38.10% of the votes. At its 442nd meeting held on 17 June 2014, the PSC welcomed the positive evolution of the situation in Guinea-Bissau, in particular the successful holding of the elections. The PSC decided to lift the suspension measure against Guinea-Bissau and invited this country to resume its participation in AU’s activities.

143. The Assembly may wish to welcome the completion of the process for ending the crisis in Guinea-Bissau, as well as to congratulate all the Bissau-Guinean stakeholders and people for their commitment and sense of responsibility. Similarly, the Assembly may wish to reiterate its gratitude to ECOWAS for its sustained support to the process of ending the crisis in Guinea-Bissau. In this regard, Presidents Alassane Dramane Ouattara, Goodluck Jonathan and John Dramani Mahama deserve a special mention, considering their personal involvement to ensure the success of the transition process. The Assembly may also wish to express its appreciation to other international actors who contributed to the progress made, particularly the CPLP, the United Nations and the OIF, as well as bilateral partners. The restoration of constitutional order should enable Guinea-Bissau to carry out the structural reforms it so badly needs, especially in the defense and security sector, as well as to address many other challenges, particularly drug trafficking, illegal fishing and exploitation of other resources, the fight against impunity and the promotion of national reconciliation. While the Bissau-Guinean stakeholders have a vital role to play, their efforts cannot succeed without strong support from ECOWAS, the AU and


the larger international community, especially with regard to the provision of the much-needed economic support. In this regard, the Assembly may wish to appeal to all the international stakeholders to continue and amplify their support, especially during the Donors’ Round Table scheduled towards the end of 2014.

(p) Mali and the Sahel 144. The previous session of the Assembly of the Union was held against the backdrop of significant progress in the process of ending the crisis in Mali, in particular the successful organization of the presidential and legislative elections in 2013. The new National Assembly was installed on 22 January 2014 and, thereafter, elected its bureau and its representatives for both regional and continental parliamentary bodies. With the support of the international community, the Government is working to finalize the establishment of democratic institutions through the organization of local elections. The latter, initially planned for the end of March 2014, was postponed to a date yet to be fixed. This will allow the elections to meet the optimum conditions for a transparent, credible and inclusive proximity consulting likely to contribute to the peace and national reconciliation efforts. 145. In parallel with the process of the strengthening the democratic institutions, and despite the difficulties, the implementation of the Ouagadougou Agreement of 18 June 2013 continues. On 26 April 2014, President Ibrahima Boubacar Keita appointed Mr. Modibo Keita, former Prime Minister, as the High Representative for the Inclusive Talks. The latter immediately began holding consultations with the representatives of the international community present in Mali, as well as with the parties to the Talks, especially the armed movements, despite the tragic events that took place in Kidal in the extreme North East of the country, in May 2014, on the occasion of the visit of Prime Minister of Mali, Moussa Mara, to this area. Indeed, fighting took place between the Malian Defense and Security Forces (FDSM) and the armed movements opposed to the visit, causing heavy loss of human lives and the temporary reoccupation of positions previously under the control of the FDSM. On 23 May 2014, President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz of Mauritania, current Chairman of the AU, went to Kidal, where he obtained the signing of a Ceasefire Agreement by the armed movements which occupied the town and the Government of Mali. Under that Agreement, the armed movements further committed themselves to participate in the Inclusive Talks, to set free the elements of FDSM and civilians they had captured and to facilitate humanitarian operations. It was within that framework that the High Representative of the President of Mali, Modibo Keita, continued his consultations with the armed groups with a view to launching the Inclusive Talks. At the same time, neighbouring countries, notably Algeria, within the framework of exploratory consultations, and Burkina Faso, continued their efforts to facilitate these Talks, including encouraging the armed movements to be faithfully involved in this process and ensure harmonization in their positions. On 9 June 2014, the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA), the Arab Movement of Azawad (MAA) and the High Council for the Unity of Azawad (HCUA) signed the Algiers Declaration, in which they expressed their commitment to consolidation of peace in Mali and affirmed the full respect for the territorial integrity and national unity of Mali. On 14 June 2014, a dissident faction of the MAA, the Coordination of the Patriotic Movements and Forces for Resistance (CMFPR) and the People’s Coalition for Azawad (CPA) signed the Algiers Preliminary Platform towards the Inter-Malian Inclusive Dialogue. In the meantime, the Malian Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Special Representative of


the UN Secretary-General and Head of MINUSMA went to Algiers for consultations on the on-going efforts. On his part, the Commissioner for Peace and Security of the African Union met with the Malian Minister of Foreign Affairs in Addis Ababa, on 26 May 2014, to discuss the developments of the situation and the related efforts. 146. In addition to the above noted incidents, there is also an upsurge in attacks by armed and terrorist groups still active in the three northern regions (Gao, Kidal and Timbuktu). Other incidents were also reported during the months of January, February and March 2014. This situation should be seen within the context of the security challenges in the Sahel region, particularly terrorism and transnational crime, as well as the existence of fall back hide outs, training and logistical supply centres for terrorists. 147. During the period under consideration, the countries of the region pursued their efforts to enhance security cooperation and to operationalize the African Peace and Security Architecture in the Sahelo-Saharan region within the framework of the Nouakchott Process, launched by the AU Commission, in March 2013. The Ministers of the countries of the region held their third meeting in Niamey, on 19 February 2014, while the Heads of the Intelligence and Security Services held their fourth and fifth meetings in Niamey, on 17 and 18 February 2014, and in Ouagadougou, on 19 and 20 May 2014, respectively. To increase its support to the efforts of countries in the region, MISAHEL worked out an AU Strategy for the Sahel region, based on the three pillars of governance, security and development. 148. Considering the importance of the coordination of international efforts in the Sahel, a Ministerial Platform was established following a meeting of the Ministers of the region and partners, on 5 November 2013 in Bamako. Under the chairmanship of Mali, the Platform has held its second meeting on 16 May 2014 in Bamako. The Platform is supported by a Technical Secretariat, which is co-chaired by the AU and the UN and includes other institutions. The participants in the second meeting agreed on the need, in particular, to map out and harmonize the different initiatives for the Sahel and establish thematic working groups on the main aspects of the different strategies. 149. The Assembly of the Union may wish to reiterate the support of the AU to the efforts of the Malian authorities aimed at consolidating the progress made in stabilizing the country. The Assembly may wish to underscore the need for quickly launching the Inclusive Peace Talks provided for in the Preliminary Ouagadougou Agreement and to express gratitude to all the international actors supporting this process. The Assembly may also wish to urge the UN to urgently take all the necessary steps to strengthen the mandate of the MINUSMA and to take the required steps for the Mission to reach its authorized strength. The Assembly may wish to express its concern about the continuing security threats in the region and reiterate its support for the efforts made within the framework of the Nouakchott Process.

(q) Western Sahara 150. The period under review was characterized by renewed efforts by the United Nations to find a lasting solution to the conflict in Western Sahara. Initiatives were also taken by the AU Commission, as a follow-up to the relevant decisions of the Executive Council and in support of the UN-led efforts.


151. Ambassador Christopher Ross, the UN Secretary-General Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, visited the region from 18 to 30 January 2014 and from 27 February to 7 March 2014, to consult with the Kingdom of Morocco and the Frente POLISARIO within the context of his new approach of conducting bilateral consultations, with the possibility of shuttle diplomacy. He likewise visited Algiers and Nouakchott to pursue discussions on how best Algeria and Mauritania could contribute towards the search for a settlement. 152. In his 10 April 2014 report to the UN Security Council, the Secretary-General indicated that the reactions of the Parties to the new approach of his Personal Envoy “remain within the parameters of their respective formal proposals”. He, however, added that there was “a measure of hope that the Parties may be able to take a more flexible approach in future discussions”. The Secretary-General recommended to the UN Security Council to comprehensively review the framework it provided for the negotiating process, should no progress occur before April 2015. The report also addressed other aspects of the situation in the Territory. On the issue of the exploitation of the Territory’s natural resources, and in the light of increased interest in these resources, the Secretary-General stressed that it was timely to call upon all relevant actors to “recognize the principle that the interests of the inhabitants of these territories are paramount”, in accordance with Chapter XI, Article 73 of the Charter. Regarding human rights, the Secretary-General, while welcoming the steps taken by the Parties and encouraging them to continue and further enhance their cooperation with the relevant UN bodies, stated that “the end goal nevertheless remains the sustained, independent and impartial monitoring of human rights, covering both the Territory and the camps”. 153. In the resolution 2152 (2014), adopted on 29 April 2014, the UN Security Council welcomed the Parties’ commitment to continue the process of preparation for a fifth round of negotiations; and called upon them to continue to show political will and work in an atmosphere propitious for dialogue. The Security Council called upon the Parties to continue negotiations under the auspices of the Secretary-General without preconditions and in good faith, taking into account the efforts made since 2006 and subsequent developments, with a view to achieving a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution, which will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara in the context of arrangements consistent with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, and noting the role and responsibilities of the parties in this respect. The Security Council also decided to extend MINURSO’s mandate until 30 April 2015, to allow more time for the mediation process to continue. The Personal Envoy, in that connection, has revealed that he intends to meet with the Parties on a monthly basis for the next six months, before briefing the Security Council next October on the evolution of the negotiations. 154. On its part, the Commission has initiated consultations with the Parties to the conflict, as well as with the permanent members of the UN Security Council, Spain as the former administrative power of the Territory and the United Nations Secretariat, as mandated by the relevant decisions of the Executive Council on the situation in Western Sahara. Within this framework, former President Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique, as AU Special Envoy, undertook, from 11 to 17 June 2014, visits to London, Paris, Madrid, Washington and New York to consult with the relevant British, French, Spanish, US and UN officials on how best the AU can support international


efforts to find a solution to the conflict on the basis of international legality. He is expected to travel to Beijing and Moscow for similar consultations with Chinese and Russian officials. As this process is yet to be completed, the Commission was not able to submit the report requested by the Executive Council for its present session. The report will be submitted in January 2015. 155. In conclusion, the Assembly may wish to reiterate the need for renewed efforts to overcome the current impasse and facilitate an early solution in line with international legality, to enable the people of Western Sahara to exercise their right for self-determination, bearing in mind that Western Sahara has been on the list of Non-Self-Governing Territories since 1963. It is also important that, in line with the UN Secretary-General report, effort be expedited towards the sustained, independent and impartial monitoring of human rights. Equally important is the need to address the issue of the illegal exploitation of the Territory's natural resources, in keeping with the legal opinion issued by the UN Legal Counsel on 29 January 2002.

(r) Tunisia 156. Tunisia has continued to make significant progress towards the completion of the on-going transition in the country. To overcome the difficulties and serious socio-political crisis arising from the murder of opposition figures, in February and July 2013, a group of civil society organizations in Tunisia, under the coordination of the General Tunisian Workers Union (UGTT), initiated a mediation between the political stakeholders in the country. This mediation enabled the Tunisian political stakeholders to agree on the establishment of a new apolitical Government, to speed up the finalization of the new Constitution, as well as to establish an Independent Electoral Commission for the parliamentary and presidential elections to be organized in 2014. 157. After his consensual appointment, on 15 December 2013, the new Prime Minister, Mr. Mehdi Jomaa, was able to form a non-political Government that took office towards the end of January 2014. This development followed the resignation of the Troika which headed the executive since the election of the National Constituent Assembly (NCA) in October 2011. 158. Meanwhile, on 8 January 2014, the NCA elected the nine members of the Higher Independent Authority for Elections (ISIE), in charge of fixing the dates of the upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections and to organize them after the adoption of an electoral law. On 26 January 2014, the NCA adopted the new Tunisian Constitution, the second since the independence of the country in 1956. To mark this historic development, nine Heads of State and Government, including seven African ones, attended the solemn ceremony of the ratification of this fundamental law on 7 February 2014 in Tunis. In a statement issued on 30 January 2014, the Chairperson of the AU Commission welcomed the formation of the new Government and the adoption of the new Constitution, stressing that those developments were further evidence of the maturity of the Tunisian political class, its sense of responsibility and compromise, as well as of its commitment to the preservation of the supreme interests of Tunisia. 159. On 1 May 2014, the NCA adopted the new electoral law by a large majority of 132 votes out of 217 elected members. This organic law establishes a one-round


proportional system for the parliamentary election and a two-round system for the presidential election. It is innovative in that it requires parties to submit lists of candidates for the parliamentary elections that respect gender parity, in accordance with the new Constitution. 160. The Assembly of the Union may wish to reiterate its appreciation to the Tunisian socio-political stakeholders for the sustained efforts they made to facilitate the resolution of the problems that hindered the completion of the transition and for their sense of compromise in the supreme interest of their country. The Assembly may wish to renew its appeal for the efforts of the Tunisian stakeholders to receive the full support of the continent and the rest of the international community.

(s) Libya

161. The political and security situation in Libya significantly deteriorated during the period under review, thereby undermining Libya’s transition to democracy and threating regional security and stability. Proliferation of armed militias, centrifugal challenges to the Government and the inability of the General National Congress (GNC) to implement its mandate are some of the factors that contributed to the current situation in the country. 162. It is to be recalled that, under the constitutional declaration, a full parliamentary election was scheduled to be held within 14 months of the first meeting of the GNC, i.e. by October 2013. However, this deadline was not complied with, and in December 2013, the GNC voted to extend its mandate for another year. The GNC also gave approval to a "Roadmap" that sets out the adjusted timescales for Libya's transition to a constitutional democracy, with February 2014 as the new target date for the election of the Constituent Assembly. 163. On 11 March 2014, Prime Minister Ali Zeidan was dismissed through a controversial no vote confidence amidst continued differences between the two major political forces–the National Forces Alliance (NFA) and the Justice and Construction Party (JCP). On the same day, Mr. Abdullah Al Thinni, who was Defense Minister, was appointed as caretaker Prime Minister. On 4 May 2014, in a controversial ballot, the GNC appointed Mr. Ahmed Maiteg to be the new Prime Minister, but Abdullah Thinni refused to cede power. On 9 June 2014, the Supreme Court ruled that the election of Mr. Maiteg was unconstitutional and that Abdullah Thinni remain as the interim Prime Minister. This ruling was accepted by all parties. Mr. Thinni must now govern the country ahead of elections for a new parliament, due on 25 June 2014. He faces a daunting array of challenges. 164. In the meantime, the security situation continued to deteriorate. In January and February 2014, major conflicts erupted in several regions. In addition, assassinations and kidnappings have continued to affect the eastern part of the country, Benghazi in particular, targeting senior military officers and judicial officials. A number of foreign diplomats have also been attacked. The most serious threat facing the country, however, occurred in Benghazi and Tripoli, starting from 16 May 2014, when senior military figures, led by retired Major-General Khalifa Haftar initiated attacks against elements, which they characterized as terrorists. In Tripoli, attacks also targeted the GNC. Some military units and personalities have expressed support for retired


General Haftar, citing frustration with the continued activities of uncontrolled militias and the resulting insecurity. 165. The political infighting and uncertainty is also affecting the country’s oil production due to repeated strikes and forced shutdowns by ethnic minorities, powerful tribes and militias in the east of the country. On 8 March 2014, separatists elements from Cyrenaica attempted to export crude oil, which was later intercepted in the Mediterranean Sea by the US Navy and returned back to Libya. The country’s production dramatically reduced, negatively affecting the economic and financial situation of the country. 166. It is worth noting, however, that in spite of continuing difficulties in the country, progress has also been made. A new electoral law for the new Parliament was adopted in March 2014 by the GNC. Furthermore, a new Roadmap was adopted in early March 2014, which provides for the holding of parliamentary elections in August 2014. However, in light of the recent developments on the ground, the GNC has decided to bring forward the parliamentary elections, which will now be held on 25 June 2014. 167. Within the framework of the Nouakchott Process on the Enhancement of Security Cooperation and the Operationalization of the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) in the Sahelo-Saharan Region, the AU has continued to work towards greater cooperation between Libya and the neighbouring countries to address their common security challenges. At their third ministerial meeting held in Niamey, Niger, on 19 February 2014, the Countries of the region, in face of the difficult situation prevailing in Libya, called for an increased engagement of the region and the continent as a whole, to help this brotherly country overcome the challenges facing it, in a spirit of African solidarity. It was against this background that Niger, with the support of the AU Commission and the CEN-SAD Secretariat, organized a consultative meeting between Libya and its neighbours in Niamey on 1 March 2014. The objective was to harmonize the position of the region ahead of the Rome meeting of 6 March 2014, held under the auspices of the Italian and Libyan Governments, with the view to mobilizing more effective international support for Libya. The AU was represented at the Rome meeting by the Commissioner for Peace and Security. 168. On 11 June 2014, the Chairperson of the Commission appointed Mr. Dileita Mohamed Dileita of Djibouti as her Special Envoy for Libya. Mr. Dileita was the Prime Minister of the Republic of Djibouti from 2001 to 2013. He also served as a member of the AU High-Level Panel for Egypt. The decision to appoint an AU Special Envoy for Libya comes as a follow-up to the press statement adopted by the PSC at its 436th meeting held on 23 May 2014. In that press statement, the PSC encouraged the Chairperson of the Commission to urgently appoint a special Envoy who would undertake consultations with the Libyan authorities and other relevant stakeholders, as well as with the countries of the region, with the view to submitting to it a comprehensive report on the situation, including concrete recommendations on how best the AU can further support the stabilization process in Libya and the early completion of the current transition. At the time of finalizing this report, Mr. Dileita was planning to travel to Tripoli for initial consultations with the Libyan authorities and other stakeholders. He will be supported on the ground by the AU Liaison Office in Tripoli. The situation in Libya was also discussed during a consultative meeting of the


Minsters of Foreign Affairs of the neighbouring countries held on the margins of the 17th ministerial meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), which took place in Algiers, from 27 to 28 May 2014. The Chairperson of the Commission attended the meeting, which expressed deep concern about the prevailing situation in Libya and its repercussions on regional security and stability, and called on all the Libyan stakeholders to stop violence and to resort to dialogue with a view to responding to the legitimate demands of the Libyan people. 169. In conclusion, the Assembly may wish to express deep concern at the escalating violence in Libya, as well as the increasing political and regional polarization in Libya, and the resulting negative impact on the functioning of the transitional institutions and the conduct of the transition. The Assembly may wish to stress the far-reaching consequences of continued insecurity and instability for Libya and its people, as well as for the region as a whole and the rest of the continent. The Assembly may wish to strongly condemn all acts of violence in Libya, and appeal to all Libyan stakeholders to put the supreme interest of their country above any other consideration, resolutely commit themselves to settle their differences through peaceful means and embark upon the path of national reconciliation, in fulfillment of the legitimate aspirations of their people to democracy, the rule of law and socio-economic wellbeing. In this respect, the Assembly may wish to urge them to work together towards the early and successful conclusion of the current transition, in particular through the holding of the legislative elections now slated for 25 June 2014 and the finalization of the work of the Constituent Assembly. The Assembly may wish to reiterate AU’s continued commitment and readiness to support the efforts of the Libyan people and Government to complete in earnest their democratic transition. The Assembly may further wish to commend all the Libyan parties for accepting the 9 June 2014 decision of the Supreme Court regarding the election of the Prime Minister. The Assembly may wish to welcome the appointment of an AU Special Envoy and express full support to his efforts.

(t) Egypt

170. During the period under review, the Egyptian authorities pursued the implementation of the Roadmap that they announced on 3 July 2013, following the unconstitutional change of Government that occurred in the country. It is within this context that a constitutional referendum was held on 14 and 15 January 2014. The Constitution was adopted by 98.1%, with a 38.5% voter turnout, a figure challenged by the Muslim Brotherhood, which called for boycott. 171. Another major step was the holding of presidential elections on 25, 26 and 27 May 2014, which was contested between former Defence Minister Abdel Fatah Al-Sisi, who had earlier on resigned from his position as Defense Minister and announced his candidacy, and Hamdeen Sabahi, the leader of the Popular Current Party. Field Marshal Al-Sisi won the election by 96.7 per cent of the votes cast. Polling was extended into an unscheduled third day; the turnout was finally announced to have been about 47 per cent of the registered voters. In its preliminary statement, the AU election observer mission that the election was held in an environment which allowed willing voters to effectively participate in the process and exercise their right to vote, and conducted in a stable, peaceful and orderly environment. At the same time, the mission noted that the pre-election environment was largely impacted by the Protest Law which undermined freedom of expression


and created limited space for opposition parties to voice their grievances due to fear of criminalization. 172. The President-elect was sworn in on 8 June 2014, in a ceremony that was held at the SCC in Cairo and attended by some African Heads of State and Government and other officials, as well as by representatives of other countries. He took over power from the former Interim President, Adly Mansour, following the signing of a document formalizing this process. There is no doubt that the successful holding of the presidential election brought Egypt closer to the conclusion of its transitional process as laid out in the Roadmap. 173. Overall, the developments of the past months have unfolded in a context of high political and social polarization. The rift between the interim authorities and the Muslim Brotherhood has continued to widen, punctuated by violent confrontations. Some political groups outside of the Muslim Brotherhood that were initially part of the support base of the Roadmap, including the April 6 Youth Movement, have also expressed sentiments of alienation and some of their leaders have been arrested. The human rights situation is marked by the continued detention, without trial, of thousands of activists and the mass sentencing to death meted out by courts against suspected supporters of the Muslim Brotherhood in March and April 2014. In a statement issued on 29 April 2014, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, condemned the imposition of the death penalty, arguing that “it is outrageous that for the second time in two months, the Sixth Chamber of the Criminal Court in Al-Minya has imposed the death sentence on huge groups of defendants after perfunctory trials”. The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights also expressed concern. 174. Furthermore, Egypt is also faced with continuing terrorist activities, including in the Sinai Peninsula, as well as in Cairo, where universities and police stations have been targeted. The authorities blame these attacks on the Muslim Brotherhood and suspected affiliated groups, but the Muslim Brotherhood, on its part, has denied any involvement in terrorist activities and even condemned them. It accuses the Government to be engaged in widespread repression against its members and of inciting hatred against them through a propaganda campaign in the media. 175. Following the communiqué adopted by the PSC on 29 January 2014 on the basis of the Progress report it submitted, the AU High-Level Panel for Egypt continued its engagement with the Egyptian stakeholders. It is in this context that the Panel undertook its third visit to Egypt from 5 to 10 April 2014, where it consulted with the Egyptian authorities, political parties, the then prospective presidential candidates and other stakeholders, including civil society organizations and the Sheikh of Al-Azhar University. The Chair of the Panel also had consultations with the Chair of the Union, President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz of Mauritania, to discuss the situation and the efforts of the Panel. 176. On 17 June 2014, the Commission presented the final report of the AU High Level Panel for Egypt to the PSC. In that report, the Panel noted that, in the period since the removal of former President Mohamed Morsi, almost a year ago, Egypt has gone through significant developments with regard to the implementation of the 3 July 2013 transitional Roadmap. At the same time, the Panel stressed the context of high political and social polarization in which the Roadmap was implemented, as well


as the terrorist attacks affecting the country. The Panel, considering the Progress made and the concrete steps taken by the Egyptian authorities to restore constitutional order, and in view of the unique circumstances under which the July 2013 unconstitutional changes of Government occurred, recommended the lifting of the suspension of Egypt’s participation in AU’s activities. The Panel made also a number of other recommendations regarding the political process and national dialogue, the democratization process, the human rights situation, the implementation of AU norms on unconstitutional changes of Government, engagement with partners, and the role of the AU in the period ahead. In light of the above, at its 442nd meeting, the PSC decided to lift the suspension measure against Egypt. 177. The Assembly may wish to endorse the recommendations of the Panel, welcome the resumption of Egypt’s participation into the AU’s activities, call upon the new Egyptian authorities to fully cooperate with the AU towards the effective implementation of the relevant recommendations of the Panel. The Assembly may also wish to express its deep appreciation to the members of the High-Level Panel, namely former President Alpha Oumar Konaré, former President Festus Mogae and former Prime Minister Dileita Mohamed Dileita for the commitment and dedication with which they have carried out the mandate entrusted upon them by the Chairperson of the Commission. The Assembly may also wish to express appreciation to those partners that have closely cooperated with the Panel and lent support to its efforts. VII. COUNTER-TERRORISM 178. Terrorism has continued to be serious threat to peace and security in Africa during the period under review. Frequent terrorist acts took place in different regions of Africa, particularly the Horn and Sahel, resulting in mass causalities, destruction of infrastructure, displacements and loss of livelihoods. Terrorist acts have also taken different shapes as witnessed in the mass kidnapping of over 200 young girls from a school in Borno State in Northern Nigeria by the group Jama'atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'awati Wal-Jihad, known commonly as Boko Haram. This incident has shocked the conscience of the international community and garnered significant media attention globally.

179. Throughout this period, the AU has remained actively seized of these troubling trends and continued to take concrete action towards addressing this scourge. The AU continued to mobilize member states towards the full and effective implementation of the AU normative and legal counter-terrorism framework. In this regard, the AU promoted the ratification and implementation of the 1999 OAU Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism and its 2004 Protocol. On 26 February 2014, the 2004 Protocol entered into force following the deposit of the 15th instrument of ratification. The Protocol was adopted with the objective of giving effect to Article 3 (d) of the PSC Protocol, which mandates it to co-ordinate and harmonize continental efforts in the prevention and combating of terrorism in all its aspects, and ensure the implementation of the OAU 1999 Convention and other relevant international, continental and regional instruments. The Protocol outlines key measures and mechanisms to be undertaken by, and in close collaboration between, States Parties, RECs, the Commission and the PSC. The Commission and the PSC


are working closely together in ensuring the swift operationalization and implementation of the mechanisms and measures outlined therein. 180. The AU has also continued to assist member states in the implementation of the 2002 Plan of Action on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism as well as the relevant cooperation mechanisms developed and administered by the ACSRT, notably the National and Regional Focal Points, AMISOM and the RCI-LRA. In addition, the ACSRT and the Commission are actively involved in capacity building support, notably through training and assistance in the elaboration of requisite legislation on the basis of the AU Model Law adopted in July 2011. 181. Another important collaborative and action-oriented framework through which significant progress is being made is the Nouakchott Process for the Enhancement of Security Cooperation and Operationalization of APSA in the Sahelo-Saharan Region. Through this Process, regular meetings of the Heads of Intelligence and Security Services and relevant Ministers are being convened. The Heads of Intelligence and Security Services held their 5th meeting in Ouagadougou from 19 to 20 May 2014, while the Ministers held their 3rd meeting in Niamey on 21 February 2014. Concrete operational security measures have been agreed upon by the concerned states and are currently being implemented. 182. With regard in particular to the threat posed by Boko Haram, the following steps were agreed upon:

the dispatch, under the AU’s auspices, of a team of experts comprising the representatives of the Intelligence and Security Services of the countries concerned by the Boko Haram threat, ACSRT, CISSA and the UFL, to exchange intelligence and experiences with the relevant Nigerian officials and make recommendations on the possible contribution of the other Sahelo-Saharan countries to the strengthening of the fight against Boko Haram, including within the framework of the current initiatives of the countries of the Lake Chad Basin, for which financial support should be mobilized;

the establishment in Abuja, in close coordination with the Nigerian Government, of an ad hoc coordination cell, comprising the relevant representatives of the member countries of the Nouakchott Process and other countries affected by the activities of Boko Haram, in order to facilitate real time exchange of information and intelligence. The AU Commission is tasked to assist in the follow-up of the implementation of this measure;

the launching, by the AU, within the framework of its Strategy for the Sahel, of a campaign to combat radicalization and promote de-radicalization, which will involve religious leaders, civil society, media and other stakeholders, as part of the efforts directed against the intolerance and barbaric acts of the Boko Haram group;

the convening by the AU of a regional meeting on the implementation of the relevant AU instruments, such as the Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism and its Protocol, in order to more effectively use the cooperative arrangements contained therein in the fight against Boko Haram and other similar entities;


the submission to the PSC of a recommendation aimed at formally declaring the Boko Haram group and the organizations associated with it as terrorist groups and obtaining their designation as such by the UN Security Council; and

the launching by the AU Commission of a study on the urgent establishment of a Regional Task Force, building on the experience of the RCI-LRA, to facilitate effective regional action against Boko Haram, and submission of appropriate recommendations to the PSC.

183. At the time of finalizing this report, follow-up steps were being taken, including the dispatch of a technical assessment mission to work out the modalities for the establishment of a regional force to enable the countries concerned to more effectively address the threat posed by Boko Haram. Furthermore, and as part of AU’s efforts in the fight against Boko Haram, the AU High Representative for Mali and Sahel participated in the ministerial meeting held in London on 12 June 2014. 184. The increasing threat of terrorism on the continent calls for renewed efforts to implement the AU counter-terrorism framework, including enhanced inter-African cooperation. In this respect, it is critical that Member States fully implement their commitments under the relevant AU instruments.

VIII. OPERATIONALIZATION OF THE AFRICAN PEACE AND SECURITY

ARCHITECTURE 185. Over the past years, the AU has made sustained efforts to operationalize the APSA. In this respect, particular attention has been paid to the African Standby Force (ASF). The Assembly will recall that, as part of the efforts to ensure the attainment of full operational capability by 2015 and as directed by the policy organs, the Commission undertook, from July to December 2013, a comprehensive assessment of the ASF and its Rapid Deployment Capability (RDC). A number of recommendations were made, focusing on mandate and decision making, the status of the pledged capabilities, mission support and the Planning Elements. These were endorsed by the Specialized Technical Committee on Defence, Safety and Security at its meeting held in Addis Ababa in January 2014. The Commission is taking the required follow-up steps, including the revision of the ASF Roadmap III and consultations with United Nations on the provision of support in the implementation of the Roadmap. 186. As the Assembly will recall, at its May 2013 ordinary session, in Addis Ababa, it decided to establish the African Capacity for Immediate Response to Crises (ACIRC) to enable the AU to respond in a timely manner to urgent crisis situations on the ground. The ACIRC is conceived as a transitional arrangement, pending the full operationalization of the ASF. It is based on the principles of willingness and capacity to contribute, it being understood that the deployment of ACIRC will be based on the relevant AU decision-making process. Since the May 2013 summit, a number of other countries have joined the initial list of volunteering nations. 187. The Commission has taken steps to operationalize the ACIRC. More specifically, the volunteering nations were requested to second, at their own cost,


staff officers to the AU Headquarters to facilitate the establishment of the ACIRC Strategic Operation Centre. Nine countries have positively responded to this request, and the seconded officers have assumed duty since April 2014. Furthermore, from May to June 2014, the Commission dispatched technical teams to assess the pledged capabilities. In its efforts to operationalize the ACIRC, the Commission has fully taken into account the need to harmonize the steps taken with those relating to the ASF, in particular to ensure that the ACIRC contribute to the development of the RDC. IX. CONCLUSION 188. The past months were marked by sustained efforts in the area of peace and security. Significant progress has been made. But many challenges remain. On the one hand, efforts should be made to consolidate the gains made, given their fragility. On the other, it is important to tackle, with renewed vigour, the crises faced by the continent. Furthermore, the continent continues to pay a heavy price for the scourge of terrorism and transnational crime. 189. In the light of the foregoing, the present session of the Assembly of the Union should mark a strengthening of the political will of African states to make it possible to effectively address the challenges to peace and security in the continent. A special effort should be made to focus on the structural prevention of conflicts, through the implementation of the AU instruments in the areas of democracy, governance and human rights, as it is true that, as pointed out by the PSC repeatedly, many conflicts in Africa are related to deficits in terms of governance.

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