South Sudan President has agreed to return the country to its former ten states plus three administrative areas (Abyei, Ruweng and Pibor), despite of insisting on 32 states while opposition on 23 or ten states during several consultations.
President Salva Kiir Mayardit in his remarks at J1 says the decision was painful but he has to compromise and bring back peace to the people of South Sudan.
‘This decision was read by the presidency after weighing several options and we thought this letters compromise will preserve the unity of the country and move the people of South Sudan out of this imposed senseless conflict, which has affected the livelihood of many’, says Kiir.
Kiir adds that his entire life fighting for the country will not allow him to accept to preside over destruction of the country by other forces.
The head of state explains that the decision is to compromise and put a limit to this conflict that has displaced South Sudanese outside the nation.
‘We must put a stop to this suffering because our people deserve the best’, Kiir adds.
‘We have not been able to form the government as stipulated in the agreement; two deadlines have already been missed and another one on February 22nd is looming’, he adds.
The SPLM-IO Spokesman Peter Manawa says as signatories to the agreement, they welcome President Kiir’s decision of which will make the formation of the government on time and solve the security arrangements smoothly.
“We commence his decision it’s a wise decision”, Manawa adds.
President Kiir was given three days to consult with the people of South Sudan and to report to IGAD.
The two Principals met recently in Addis Ababa on 8th February Friday, but Kiir insisted on the former 32 states plus Abyei, while Dr Riek suggested either 10 states or 23 plus Abyei.