SPLM/A-IO leader Riek Machar will not return to South Sudan’s capital Juba unless President Salva Kiir revokes the 28 administrative districts he created unilaterally in October last year, the rebel leader's spokesperson said.

James Gatdet Dak said in a statement seen by Radio Tamazuj that Kiir's order should be revoked among other steps taken to ensure Machar can return.

“Machar will not return to Juba unless some outstanding matters are resolved,” he said. “These issues include constitutional amendments to be approved by an expanded parliament, besides the implementation of the security arrangements including the withdrawal of troops from Juba."

The two parties reportedly agreed to settle the 28 states issue by consensus after discussing it under the auspices of JMEC, the body overseeing the peace process. JMEC chairperson Festus Mogae had said that Kiir's order was a violation of the peace agreement.