The spokesperson for the SPLM/A-in Opposition denied any agreement on a transitional agreement within 60 days between rebel leader Riek Machar and President Salva Kiir.

Yohanis Musa Pouk told Radio Tamazuj yesterday that the East African regional body the Inter-Government Authority on Development (IGAD) only recommended that the two warring parties should reach a comprehensive peace settlement within 60 days and then embark on the formation of a transitional government of national unity.

However, he welcomed IGAD’s threats of sanctions should the two parties fail to commit themselves to peace in South Sudan. 

Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, who has been overseeing peace talks, has said that IGAD will use all options available including sanctions to make sure peace is realized in South Sudan.

“This will push the warring parties to put an end to current conflict,” Pouk said.

Pouk accused the government in Juba of being reluctant to bring about peace in the country.

Desalegn said President Kiir and Machar should finish their dialogue within 60 days with a follow up by IGAD.