Ambrose Riiny Thiik, head of the Jieng (Dinka) council of elders, has welcomed the formation of the transitional government of national unity but warned the leaders may throw the country back to war if they fail to work together.

“This is a positive development," Ambrose said. "Our people need peace, they need security, they need reconciliation and they need to live together harmoniously. This should be the priority of this government otherwise the country will go back to war if these leaders fail to cooperate and work together as a team with one president."

The head of tribal group said his group would play a role in the reconciliation and healing process.

“I confirm the support of the council to the new government in reconciliation and healing process. Our people have been polarized by the war and bringing them back requires concerted efforts. It needs joint efforts," he said.

"Reconciling people who fought each other cannot be done alone by the government, not even by the churches and civil societies. It is the work of everybody, the citizens, the government, the churches, the civil society and the opinion leaders," Ambrose added.

The JCE is a group of influential politicians who serve as informal advisers to the president. It is not a council of traditional leaders.