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JUBA - 25 Jul 2013

Troika diplomats say South Sudan facing ‘grave challenges’

Diplomats of the United Kingdom, United States and Norway have called for calm in South Sudan in the wake of the government shakeup announced in Juba on Tuesday evening.

Referring to the relief of the entire cabinet and the vice president by President Salva Kiir, the diplomats noted in a written statement that they “followed with apprehension the situation in South Sudan,” adding that they have called on the leaders of South Sudan to expedite the formation of a new cabinet.

Norway, the US and UK often act in concert on Sudan policy and have come to be known as the ‘Troika' in their dealings with the two Sudans.

“During this time of grave challenges it is critical that South Sudan stay true to the vision it laid out for itself two years ago at its independence. That vision can only be realized through sustained commitment to democracy and good governance, justice and accountability, and respect for rule of law and the human rights of all of South Sudan's people," read the statement.

The Troika countries were joined by Canada, Switzerland, the African Union (AU), and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) as signatories to the joint statement.