Welcoming Arusha Agreement, Secretary-General Tells South Sudan Parties ‘Time Is Running Out’, Calling for Final Agreement

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General welcomes the Agreement on the Reunification of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) signed by the South Sudanese parties, in Arusha, United Republic of Tanzania, on 21 January.  He calls for its immediate implementation, particularly the recommitment of President Salva Kiir and Dr. Riek Machar to respect the cessation of hostilities agreement, and encourages the signatories to resolve the leadership issues of SPLM.

The Secretary-General reminds the parties that time is running out.  He urges them to use the opportunity of the forthcoming Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD) Summit to reach a final agreement on the end to the conflict, including a power-sharing formula and measures to address its root causes and ensure accountability.