US, EU threaten sanctions against South Sudan’s warring parties

March 19, 2014 (ADDIS ABABA) – South Sudanese warring parties may face sanctions if they obstruct the IGAD-led peace process to end the three-month conflict said special envoys of the United States and the European Union on Wednesday.

The United States, the United Kingdom, Norway, and the European Union said in a joint statement they “expect ” the South Sudan government and the rebel SPLM-In-Opposition to engage constructively in the peace negotiations.

“If the government or any other actor tries to undermine the peace process and rebuff the IGAD heads of state, they will face consequences,” said a statement released in Addis Ababa 24 hours before the expected resumption of peace talks after a two-week break.

EU envoy for the Horn of Africa, Alexander Rondos and US envoy for the two Sudans Donald Booth told reporters that their countries consider some “measures” against those who hamper the peace process, without elaborating .

The European Union “stands ready to consider targeted restricted measures against individuals obstructing the political process,” said Rondos. While Booth told reporters that Washington was “considering what measures might be taken”.

Since the start of the conflict on 15 December, the American administration exercised discreet pressures on the two parties to stop hostilities and settle their difference peacefully.

However observers say this statement shows failure of the American past efforts to bring the warring parties to end the conflict.

(ST)