Opposition groups walk out as talks resume in Addis Ababa

South Sudanese opposition groups at the ongoing peace talks in Addis Ababa Monday morning walked out of the talks with the government delegation in protest.

South Sudanese opposition groups at the ongoing peace talks in Addis Ababa Monday morning walked out of the talks with the government delegation in protest.

Emmanuel Aban, spokesman of the opposition group led by Lam Akol, told Radio Tamazuj that it was no longer tenable for them to participate in the talks while government troops attack rebel defensive positions in Nasser this morning.

The opposition official further said they would present a letter of protest to the mediation team before they could resume the talks.

Aban pointed out all the opposition groups walked out of the talks in protest against attacks on SPLA-IO positions by government force in Nasser.

“Our SPLM-IO collages said the government left its positions and attacked their positions in Nasser. We have now formed a committee to meet with IGAD facilitators and then we will decide what will be the way forward,” Aban said.

“Right now we are out of the talks. All the opposition groups are waiting outside until the outcome of our meeting with the facilitators is over, “he explained.

Government officials at the peace talks could not immediately be reached for comment.

Today’s peace talks focus on Chapter 2 which covers articles on permanent ceasefire and security arrangement. The talks between South Sadan parties entered second week today.