S. Sudan’s parties warned over hostile language use
July 6, 2016 (JUBA) – A South Sudanese activist has urged South Sudan’s main rival factions to desist from hostile languages likely to derail implementation of the peace deal.
“Today, we organised a workshop which brought in South Sudanese spokespersons. We urged them to refrain from exaggerating the current situation and work for peace and unite people,” he said.
The spokesperson for the presidency, Ateny Wek Ateny and the press secretary to the vice-president, James Gatdet Dak attended the workshop.
According to Yakani, the two government spokespersons can work together and unite communities and prevent any possible conflicts.
Sharing information between spokespersons shall be central in forging mutual understanding to avoid aggressive statements, he said.
The activist said a forum of press groups from both parties to the agreement, including the presidency spokespersons, shall be formed to enhance proper communication.
The armed opposition spokesperson, Col. Gatjiath Deng said he believes the initiative was right and vowed to cooperate with their peace partners, should they abide by the term of peace accord.
Yakani told Sudan Tribune that the army chief of general staff, Paul Malong Awan, who was the chief guest at the workshop supported the idea, urging both officials to use the language of peace in order to achieve lasting peace in the young nation.
(ST)