Kenya: Release Of The Detainees, A “commitment” to Ceasefire Agreement?

Pres. Uhuru Kenyatta welcomed the Freed Political Detainees with a warm hug.

January 29, 2014[CR] — In his statement, President Kenyatta said the release of some of the detainees is an expression of the commitment to the ceasefire agreement which was signed last week.

“We agreed in the IGAD summit in Nairobi last months and that one of the principles of engagement with South Sudan would be the release of these detainees, today’s acts are in line with that commitment and am therefore very grateful to the government of South Sudan for its compliance with the agreement.”

Kenyatta however said the IGAD heads of state and government will hold conversations with president Kiir concerning the remaining detainees who are still under his custody.

“Together, we will also discuss how best to establish urgently needed monitoring and verification mechanism provided for Cessation of Hostilities Agreement signed 23 January 2014,” he noted.

He has urged other IGAD member states that pledged to contribute to the verification mechanism to meet their obligations promptly.

Kenyatta has also appreciated Retired General Lazaro Sumbeiywo and other IGAD special envoy who devoted themselves to mediating the conflict and will continue to do so as the peace process takes shape.

The released detainees include; Hon. Deng Alor Kuol, Hon. Geir Chuang, Dr Cirino Hiteng, Hon. Kosti Manibe, Hon. John Luk, Gen. Madut Biar Yel and Eng Chol Tong Mayay.