UK Minister for Africa appalled by failure to secure peace in South Sudan

LONDON, United-Kingdom, July 9, 2015/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- On South Sudan's 4th Independence Day, Minister for Africa calls on the country's leaders to act immediately to secure peace and form a government of national unity

Speaking on the fourth anniversary of South Sudan's independence Minister for Africa, James Duddridge MP, said:

Today should be a time for celebration in South Sudan, instead 2.2 million are displaced from their homes and 4.6 million are at risk of life-threatening hunger. It is appalling that the country's leaders have continually failed to meet the hopes and aspirations of their people while squandering the country's oil wealth on a senseless war. All sides are responsible for ongoing military actions, violations of international humanitarian law, and widespread human rights abuses against civilians, including children.

The South Sudanese Parliament's decision to temporarily extend the government takes effect today. This must be used for one purpose: to secure a peace deal immediately and form a transitional government of national unity. With our Troika (the US and Norway) and EU partners the United Kingdom stands steadfast in its support to the people of South Sudan, today and for the long term. I urge all sides to finally put the people first and demonstrate the leadership necessary to forge a lasting peace.