IGAD Envoys condemn the latest military actions by SPLM/A-In-Opposition forces in South Sudan The IGAD Special Envoys for South Sudan have strongly condemned the action of SPLM/A-In-Opposition forces in initiating conflict in the area of Bentiu, Unity State. A statement said the ongoing fighting in and around Bentiu, Unity State, demonstrated that the SPLM/A-In-Opposition has yet “to abandon the option of war.” The IGAD Envoys called on the forces of the SPLM/A-In-Opposition to immediately cease hostilities, for government forces to demonstrate restraint and for all parties to give peace a chance. They demanded the parties adhere to their commitments, particularly the requirements of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement to end the recruitment and mobilization of forces, including that of child soldiers, the acquisition of arms and ammunition, and all possible military provocation. The Envoys also appealed to the IGAD Heads of State and Government, the United Nations, the African Union and the international community to prevail on the parties to immediately cease fighting, commit to a genuine process of peace and dialogue and abandon the option of war. The statement noted that the already dire humanitarian situation throughout South Sudan was further imperiled by this violence, and risked millions of lives and the international effort to address the humanitarian catastrophe induced by this war. This “unfortunate development” comes despite progress in the peace talks in Ethiopia and at the start of the current session of talks. It is also taking place on the eve of the convening of the Assembly of the IGAD Heads of State and Government and, at their specific request, direct negotiations between President Kiir and Dr. Machar. According to IGAD’s Chief Envoy, Ambassador Seyoum Mesfin, a “breakthrough” has been made in the talks with Machar and Kiir having agreed to meet at the IGAD Summit to discuss “critical issues of sharing power in the top executive.” He said ““They will be the ones to negotiate what would be the power that they would share, or define the duties and obligations and powers of the president, the vice president, of the prime minister and deputy prime ministers, or even shatter this structure.” .
Posted on: Fri, 31 Oct 2014 15:18:11 +0000
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