South Sudan’s presidency discusses implementation of peace agreement

May 31, 2016 (JUBA) – For the first time since formation of the transitional government of national unity on 29 April, South Sudan presidency have met to review the implementation of the August 2015 peace deal.

In a joint meeting on Tuesday at the presidential palace in Juba, President Salva Kiir, his first deputy, Riek Machar and second deputy, James Wani, were shown on the national television, shaking hands and sitting together in the discussions.

In the brief TV broadcast, it was reported that the three leaders reviewed the implementation of the deal, with emphasis on the deteriorating economic situation in the country.

There were no however more explanation about the details of the discussions or its outcome.

There are many contentious issues in the agreement, including the number of states, cantonment of forces and reconstitution of the national legislative assembly, among others.

Donors have not yet pledged or brought in financial support to the new government, citing lack of commitment to peace by the former warring parties.

(ST)