The announcement by South Sudan’s government to return to 10 states is "an important compromise" to enable the timely formation of the unity government, a top UN official said.

President Kiir on Saturday made a compromise by cutting the 32 states back down to the original 10 -- a key opposition demand -- to pave the way for a unity government.

But Kiir also included on top of the 10 states, three administrative areas of Ruweng, Abyei and Pibor.

Opposition chief Riek Machar said he opposed those three administrative areas, calling upon President Kiir to reconsider the establishment of the three areas.

“Compromise is possible when the political will exists. We urge all parties to reach out and embrace each other’s positions so that the peace deal can be fully implemented,” said the Head of UNMISS, David Shearer.

In a statement today, Shearer said under a new transitional government, a process can be initiated so parties can work together to make a collective decision on the appropriate number of states, administrative areas, and demarcation of boundaries.

 “The formation of an inclusive transitional government will inspire greater trust and confidence amongst citizens that the peace process will succeed and that the parties will come together to make decisions collectively,” he said.

“The start of the transitional government will pave the way for elections in three years’ time. This will enable the people of South Sudan to fully participate in the democratic process – a right they have been looking forward to exercising since they won independence nine years ago,” he added.

David Shearer noted that the government’s decision may not be welcome everywhere and could cause short term disruption as local boundaries and administrations are determined.

“It may not be the preferred option of some people. However, they should also recognize it has been done in the spirit of compromise to secure durable peace for the whole country,” he said.

International pressure has been building on President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar to meet a February 22 deadline to establish a transitional government of national unity.