South Sudanese opposition leader unveils peace plan

June 8, 2015 (JUBA) – The coalition of South Sudanese opposition alliance, Lam Akol has unveiled a peace plan to address the current political and security unrest in the country.

Akol who also heads the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement for Democratic Change, said peace was the opposition’s top priority as they seek solutions to the war.

The opposition leader was speaking during an occasion marking six years since the opposition political party was formed as a break-away faction of the country’s ruling party.

“In the coming period, we plan to pursue the search for a just and sustainable peace through an inclusive process that does not exclude any stake holder,” said Akol.

“Peace is a priority and key towards all solutions to problems affecting our country,” he added.

The outspoken opposition alliance leader urged the two South Sudanese warring parties to end hostilities and bring a lasting peace to the country so that its people can embark on state and nation building as well as peace, reconciliation and healing process.

Talks between the two rivals mediated by regional leaders stalled in March, prompting the mediators to initiate an IGAD-plus arrangement involving five African nations, the African Union, United Nations and the Troika nations (Norway, United States and Britain).

Tens of thousands of people have died and nearly two million killed as the South Sudanese conflict rages on, amidst fears over 2.5 million could face severe starvation.

(ST)