South Sudanese rebels allied to exiled opposition figure Riek Machar have given a “cautious welcome” to the decision by the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to start consultations with leaders on the peace process, warning IGAD against attempts to be bias towards Kiir in the revitalization process.
Manawa Peter Gatkuoth, a senior opposition official loyal to Machar, told Radio Tamazuj on Wednesday that they do not object to the recent timetable released by the East African regional bloc IGAD in order to conduct wider consultations with South Sudan leaders.
He further said his opposition group has been telling the region that the 2015 peace accord cannot be revitalized without involvement of prominent opposition leader Riek Machar and other key stakeholders.
Manawa, who is a former government minister in Jonglei state, said that the incumbent First Vice-President Taban Deng doesn’t represent the opposition in the coalition government.
South Sudan’s presidential spokesperson, Ateny Wek Ateny, said the revitalization process was proposed by IGAD countries, but President Kiir and his deputy Taban Deng are implementing the signed peace agreement.
He pointed out that the government in Juba is waiting for IGAD representatives to come to Juba next week to explain the revitalization process.
Consultations, according to the timetable, will start from 13-17 October, with leaders in South Sudan’s unity government to be consulted first.
South Sudan rebel leader Riek Machar, former agriculture minister Lam Akol, former secretary general of the ruling party, Pagan Amum and the former deputy army chief for logistics chief-turned rebel leader, Gen. Thomas Cirillo are also to be consulted.
The other groups are General Peter Gatdet Yaak, General Johnson Olony and Lieutenant General, Bapiny Monytuil.