Peace pact to end the civil war
A peace deal was signed today by South Sudan president Salva Kiir and rebel chief Riek Machar, giving light to the hope for African nation to end the civil war that has engulfed the country for five months.
According to media reports, South Sudan President Salva Kiir and Riek Machar signed today the peace pact in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
After the international pressure to end the bloodshed, the two leaders finally agreed to end the fighting within the 24 hours after signing the agreement.
The five-month old civil war has claimed thousand of lives and disclaced more than a million civilians.
US hails the peace agreement between two rivals
The United States welcomed the agreement between the two rivals.
In a press statement in Washington DC, US Secretary of State John Kerry said the peace agreement marks a breakthrough for the future of South Sudan.
“The hard journey on a long road begins now and the work must continue.” – Secretary Kerry
Secretary Kerry urged the two leaders to take immediate action now to ensure that the pact is implemented in full and that armed groups on both sides adhere to its terms.
Secretary Kerry pointed out that the Sout Sudanese people have suffered too much for famine and the turmoil that raged in the nation. The agreement offers then a path toward peace and unhindered realization of progress.
South Sudan on the brink of civil war?
In December 2013, fear of civil war is looming in South Sudan as heavy fighting gripped the African country for a week.
The clashes erupted after President Salva Kiir accused former Vice President Riek Machar of attempting a coup. However, Mr Machar denied the accusation.
The clashes have left hundreds dead and displaced thousands of people who fled for protection in UN bases.
Reports of violence against civilians made headlines as renewed clashes erupted between troops loyal to Mr Kiir and the battle forces backing Mr Machar.
The US successfully evacuated its citizens and diplomats overnight when reports of violence started to rage in the African nation. See US Diplomats Leave War-Stricken South Sudan
