Juba, South Sudan,
June 28, 2021 – The Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity has called for the adjournment of a round of talks scheduled for July with the South Sudan Opposition Movements Alliance (SSOMA) citing independence celebration and official assignments.
In the statement dated 26th June, the Minister for Presidential Affairs Dr. Barnaba Marial Benjamin said all members of the government delegation to the Rome Peace Talks will be on different official assignments
“I would like request you to extend the date of SSOMA Rome Peace Talks with Gen. Paul Malong Awan, leader of SSUFA [South Sudan United Front], and Gen. Pagan Amum, leader of the Real SPLM to be held on between 10th and 18th July 2021,” Barnaba said in the statement.
President Kiir also delegated the minister to attend the funeral proceeding of Zambian founding president Kenneth Kaunda, who will be laid to rest on 7th July 2021 after a private ceremony.
“This is because I was tasked to head organizing a High-Level Committee for the celebration of the Tenth Independence Anniversary of the Republic of South Sudan. I have been asked by the President to represent him in the burial of former President of Zambia H.E Kenneth Kaunda,” he said.
“Equally, the ministers representing the parties in the R-TGoNU and the Government Negotiating Team are engaged in organizing the celebration events,” Barnaba added.
He reiterated that the government was committed to the discussion in Rome and shall be in attendance when an adjustment is made to the date.
“I would like to assure you that we are committed to the Rome Peace Talks under the auspices of Sant’ Egidio and that we will be able to attend immediately when these events are over,” he said.
