Bashir emphasises importance of stability in South Sudan
December 16, 2013 (KHARTOUM) – Sudanese president Omer Hassan al-Bashir and his South Sudanese counterpart, Salva Kiir, spoke by telephone on Monday in the wake of clashes that broke out on Sunday between military units in Juba.
During the call Bashir emphasised the importance of security and stability in South Sudan for the interests of the two neighbouring nations.
SUNA reported that Kiir thanked Bashir for his call and concern, while affirming that the situation is now under control.
Sudan’s first vice-president, Bakri Hassan Salih, made a similar call to his South Sudanese counterpart, James Wani Igga.
At a press conference in Juba, Kiir accused his former deputy, Riek Machar, of attempting a coup, describing him as a “prophet of doom [who] continues to persistently pursue his actions of the past”, referring to the 1991 split in which the former vice-president defected from the southern-based rebel group (SPLM/A) during its civil war with Sudan.
He also announced a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Juba, saying justice would prevail on those behind the attack.
Several former ministers were taken into custody in connection with the alleged coup attempt.
The situation in Juba remains unclear, with reports of renewed fighting on Tuesday morning and an unconfirmed number of casualties and injured.
(ST)