The Chairman of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement for Democratic Change (SPLM-DC) Lam Akol said recent constitutional amendments that extend Salva Kiir’s presidential term are threats to South Sudan’s democracy.

Akol said the move, which also extends the life of the national assembly, sets a bad precedent.

Speaking at a press conference held yesterday by members of the Political Parties Leadership Forum (PPLF) in Juba, Akol accused the government of trying to cling to power by all means without any clear justification.

He added that article 4 of the South Sudan Transitional Constitution stipulates that whoever attempts to take power by force or remains in power without people’s mandate is violating the constitution.

Akol stressed that peace is the only way to achieve instability through a peaceful transfer of power.

He called on the opposition political parties and members of civil society organizations to hold an inclusive conference to draw a roadmap to realize peace in South Sudan.

“The people of South Sudan shouldn’t be held as hostage by the party chairman and his deputy who are now fighting,” he said.

“The president is threatening the world and it is the first time for him to do so.  We actually know what had happened to leaders who used to threaten the world,” he added.