SPLM-N on Monday announced the release of twenty prisoners of war and twenty nine workers on the eve of the Holy month of Ramadan.
SPLM-N Peace Spokesperson Mubarak Ardol said the leadership consulted the Red Cross in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on the release of the 40 people.
The Movement directed handing over the prisoners and detainees as soon as possible to the Red Cross so that they can fast with their families in Ramadan, Ardol added.
He said the SPLM-N respects human rights, but the ongoing aerial bombings by the Sudanese government on their positions hinder the release of the 40 people.
But the SPLM-N and the ICRC will make every effort to enable the release of prisoners and detainees to join their families, the spokesperson said.
The Holy month of Ramadan is expected to begin next Monday.