South Sudanese Vice President James Wani Igga insisted that a new generation of political leaders should be ready to take over from the present crop of politicians holding sway in the country.

The old generation of South Sudanese politicians, Igga said, have done their part and should pave the way for the younger ones to lead the country.

“Those of Wani Igga, Riek Machar and Kiir Mayardit have already done their part. Our time has come to prepare the youths to take over leadership,” he said. “We must give way for the young generation.”

“I want to tell you that your time has come, but this country needs to be led carefully.  We want this country to remain peaceful. Please hold this country carefully because it is like a fragile egg," he added.

Igga, who is the third most powerful man in the Juba government, said the young people should be supported to move the country forward.

He spoke when he visited internally displaced persons at Mangateen area in the capital Juba on Saturday.

According to estimates, 72 per cent of South Sudan’s 12.4 million population are 30 years old and below.