By Adia Jildo
South Sudan’s president Salva Kiir who doubles as team leader of the IGAD heads of state and government on Sudan is calling for extension of the ceasefire in Sudan by another 72 hours.
The Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Deng Dau Deng said president Kiir spoke with chairperson of the Sudan sovereign council Al Fattah Al Burhan requesting for an additional 3-day ceasefire for those stuck amid Sudan’s conflict to be able to get basic services and humanitarian needs.
“His Excellency the president talked to General Burhan yesterday (Tuesday) and even today to reinforce his message of supporting the existing ceasefire but, His Excellency requested an additional 3 days which will commence on the 28th April,” Said Deng.
Deng said president Kiir is also engaging with the leaders of the Rapid Support Forces Mohamed Dagalo on extension of the truce.
“South Sudan is neutral in Sudan’s conflict because it is not in our favor. They (Sudan) supported us so that we can have peace,” added Deng
The National minister of Information, Communication and Postal Service, Michael Makuie Lueth said president Kiir has continuously been engaging the two parties to ceasefire and reach a consensus so as to return to negotiation table.
“He (President Salva Kiir Maryardit) has been in touch with the other presidents in his team who are the President of Kenya, the president of Djibouti. This is an IGAD initiative in addition to his bilateral relationship with Sudan. He has also been strengthening his position because of the good relations the president has with Sudan,” Makuei said.