The chairman of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement for Democratic Change Party (SPLM-DC) Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin has criticized the government for announcing plans for elections as peace talks are ongoing in Addis Ababa. He described the government’s move as “contradictory”.

In an interview with Radio Tamazuj on Thursday, Lam emphasized the importance of peace as a priority and that all efforts should be directed toward the peace process in South Sudan.

“When we achieve peace then elections can be conducted after an agreed transitional period,” he said.

When asked if he personally would be willing to contest in the upcoming elections should a peace agreement not first be reached, Lam declined to comment.

The opposition leader mentioned a proverb in Arabic saying “lekulu magam magal,” which means the right decision is taken in the right circumstances.

The SPLM-DC leader also dismissed claims that he has become closer to the armed opposition faction SPLM-IO after he had met Riek Machar in Addis Ababa recently.

“I want to clarify something: I did not go to meet Riek Machar alone. I went together with the political detainees [SPLM-Leaders] to discuss issues pertaining to peace. So my meeting with SPLM-IO leader does not imply that I am closer to them.”

“When President Salve Kiir went to Addis Ababa and met Riek Machar was anybody complaining?” he asked.

The politician also dismissed claims by a government minister that he had been ousted from the leadership of the PPLF delegation at the peace talks in Addis Ababa.

He accused the government of interfering with the affairs of the South Sudan Political Parties Leadership Forum (PPLF).

Lam further said their position is to stick to genuine and inclusive discussions that will culminate in a comprehensive peace in South Sudan.

The South Sudanese politician expressed optimism about the next round of peace talks where he said substantive issues will be approached.

“The next round of peace talks will not be able to bring about about peace, but there will be progress in terms of discussions,” he noted.

Related coverage:

SPLM-Juba official says ‘power-hungry’ opposition groups in talks together (11 Sept.)

SPLM-DC rejects Kiir’s proposal for 2015 election (10 Sept.)

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