A South Sudanese deputy minister resigned from his position, citing frustration with the unity government’s inability to implement the peace agreement.

Mabior Garang, eldest son of late John Garang de Mabior, founder of the South Sudanese ruling party, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM),  was appointed as Deputy Minister of Interior in the unity government on the SPLM-IO ticket in March, but never took the oath of office.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Friday, Mabior said he already made his position known to the country’s First Vice-President, Riek Machar Teny.

"I cannot lie to God and the people of South Sudan by taking the oath of office, that’s why I resigned from assuming office. This government is not serious about implementing the peace agreement,” said Mabior.

He added, "There is no peace, and therefore there is no benefit in serving in a government that does not implement peace. I cannot do anything in a government that was formed illegally."

Mabior, who also heads the SPLM-IO’s committee for information, said however he would continue supporting the Machar-led group in implementing the 2018 peace agreement.

"Initially, I accepted the position after consultations with our chairman in the interest of the people of South Sudan, but I personally disagree with the movement's leadership policy,” he said.

The senior SPLM-IO official said the unity government had failed to develop programs to control the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. He also accused the transitional government of failure to implement security arrangements.

The government is yet to officially react to Mabior’s resignation.