South Sudan’s Minister of Information Michael Makuei has urged the opposition to respect the signed cessation of hostilities agreement to help create a conducive environment for peace talks in February.

Fresh violence erupted on Thursday night in the western part of the capital Juba when rebels and government soldiers exchanged fire. This comes after both sides failed to respect the signed ceasefire deal despites warnings by members of the international community.

“We call on those rebels to respect and abide by the cessation of hostilities so that we continue to negotiate peace, not war,” said Makuei after the cabinet meeting today.

He confirmed that heavy clashes broke out between government forces and rebel fighters in the western part of Juba. Makuai said yesterday’s attack was an attempt to disrupt the peace process.

Makuei, who is also the government spokesman, pointed out the heavy shooting rocked Gurei and Kapuri areas. “Our forces were out to face them and they were repulsed,” he said.

On Thursday, South Sudan’s National Communication Authority shut down 3G internet services across the country without explanation before the clashes erupted in the western part of the capital.