The Sudanese government will dispatch military observers to participate in the regional ceasefire monitoring force within South Sudan, but will not send troops to join the ‘protection force’ that will be working alongside the monitors.

This announcement came during the arrival of a delegation from the Inter-governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to South Sudan’s capital Juba yesterday.

The IGAD team are on a mission to consult with civil society and political ‘stakeholders’ and government officials concerning the peace process in the country.

Upon arrival at Juba International Air port, the delegation of East African diplomats was received by the Ethiopian Ambassador in Juba and representatives of the Sudanese Embassy. 

In his remarks to the press, Ambassador Mohamed El Dabi stated they came to meet stakeholders and government officials so that the agenda can be finalized.

“Before the next round of talks resumes, we will organize a workshop in Addis Ababa for all the stakeholders and communities concerned with the peace talks on relevant topics connected with the mediation process,” said the envoy.

He also said that the regional deterrent forces will be deployed on the ground before the end of next month, saying the regional body is committed and will continue to put the needed efforts to ensure that peace and stability is restored in South Sudan.

These forces numbering up to 2,500 will be absorbed into the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), according to a UN Security Council resolution passed Tuesday.

However, El Dabi said Sudan will not participate in the peace keeping forces that will be deployed to monitor the implementation of agreement next months.

Another Sudanese diplomat, Mohamed Ahmed Mustefa, was quoted by Sudan Tribune as explaining, “Sudan is only participating with the MVTs [Monitoring and Verification Teams] and with the joint technical commission here.”

“Sudan has no any forces coming. Only a number of retired officers supporting IGAD in areas where there is difficulties; a few of them – less than 15," he said.

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