Kiir, Machar sign permanent ceasefire agreement in South Sudan
June 27, 2018 (KHARTOUM) – South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and SPLM-IO leader have signed an agreement providing to implement a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire in the country ahead of the formation of an inclusive transitional cabinet.
The deal was signed at the Sudanese presidency in Khartoum by President Kiir and his rival Machar among huge diplomatic presence. Also, the text was co-signed by representatives of the different opposition groups.
However, the text of the agreement is yet to be released.
According to the Sudanese foreign minister who read the text of the deal, the parties agreed that the permanent cease-fire will come into effect on Saturday. Also, the parties agreed to open the humanitarian corridors, release detainees, withdraw troops and militarily disengage.
The agreement calls on the African Union and IGAD to deploy protection forces and ceasefire monitors to observe the ceasefire implementation.
The transitional government also is invited to take the needed measures to form national army and security forces away from tribalism, and collecting weapons from civilians.
The initial draft proposed to have three capitals during the transitional period and to begin oil production by Sudanese worker and under the protection of Sudanese troops.
Nonetheless, officials from both sides rejected the idea of deploying Sudanese forces in South Sudan and the three capitals.
The SPLM-IO officials also stressed that oil production should only start when peace is fully implemented.
It is not clear if the parties will discuss outstanding issues such as Machar participation in the transitional government, and troops’ cantonment.
More to come
(ST)