@UNMISS
UNMISS, MP 05 May 2019
Head of the United Missions in South Sudan David Shearer has described the decision taken by the parties to extend the pre-transitional period and the formation of the Government of the National Unity as a sign of goodwill to end the suffering of the people.
The South Sudan signatories to the peace deal, however, met in Addis Ababa last week to evaluate and iron out the remaining issues of misunderstanding for final peace to reign in South Sudan.
It is regrettable that a number of fundamental issues remained unresolved, including the formation of a unified security force, number of states and local area boundaries. The six-month extension according to him will give these parties more time to achieve the benchmarks agreed upon and make peace a reality.
The UN chief further said that the decision taken by all parties is important to reassure the people of South Sudan that the peace agreement is still alive. It is a step towards ending the suffering caused by the conflict. It will also give millions of the displaced families the confidence to return home and rebuild their lives.
He added saying the responsibility lies now with the parties whether they will live up to their commitments or not. It also requires them to meet regularly so as to ensure the agreement stays on track.
Shearer acknowledged the progress made since the signing of the peace deal agreed upon last September, including an overall reduction in political violence which has potentially saved thousands of lives.
“The resulting ceasefire has also enabled Government and opposition forces to build trust and confidence through the holding of over 100 peace meetings and rapprochements across the country, many of which were facilitated by UNMISS. This is clear evidence that the desire for peace amongst South Sudanese is real.
NN/MP
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