A group of 10 South Sudanese civil society organizations in the diaspora has petitioned the East African regional bloc (IGAD) condemning their exclusion from the IGAD-led consultations before the upcoming revitalization forum.

The group, however, welcomed IGAD’s decision to interact with stakeholders to revitalize the peace process in South Sudan.

“We note that as civil organizations outside the government-controlled areas we feel that we have been excluded by IGAD from the recent consultation process,” partly reads the group’s petition.

The group urged IGAD to consult them and other diaspora groups.

“We are cognisant of indisputable fact that the Addis-Ababa peace accord had collapsed on 8 July 2016, and we condemn President Salva Kiir for not adhering to his mandate to respect the peace agreement and for reigniting the war in the country,” adds the statement dated 24 October.

Meanwhile, the group demanded the unconditional release of South Sudan rebel leader, Riek Machar from exile in South Africa to take part in the revitalization process.

 “We appeal for unconditional release of Dr. Riek Machar Teny, Chairman of SPLM (IO) from the house confinement in South Africa and allow him to participate in person in the revitalization of the 2015 peace agreement process,” further said the group’s statement.

The petition was signed by Child Rights organization of South Sudan, Nuer International Relief, South Sudan International Advocacy for Human Rights and Rally for Peace and Democracy.

The other group members include Matmedia South Sudan, Nuer Community Global Board, South Sudan Christian Community, South Sudan Media International, Information for Peace Institute and Future Youth Association.