IGAD condemns sustained gunfire and violence in South Sudan

The international community has condemned the sustained gunfire and sporadic artillery bombings in South Sudan, which has seen more than 200 people killed since Friday.

Speaking during the 56th Extra Ordinary Session of the IGAD Council of Ministers on the situation in South Sudan held in Nairobi, IGAD Executive Secretary Mahboub Maalim has now called on President Salva Kiir and first Vice-President Riek Machar to respect the peace agreement and ceasefire adding that those responsible will be held to account.

IGAD Council of Ministers Chair Dr Todras Adhnom has also urged both parties to put aside their differences and ensure the full implementation of the peace agreement

On his part, US Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec has called for the deployment of regional forces and an arms embargo to deal with the situation.

IGAD is currently in a closed door meeting but they are expected to come up with recommendations to restore peace and get back to path of implementing the peace agreement in South Sudan.

By Wycliff Orandi