Bol Makueng, SPLM Secretary for Culture, Information and Communication

The SPLM has criticized the UN for not formally recognizing the creation of more states.

On Tuesday, the head of UNMISS and Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ellen Margrethe Loej, said at a weekly news conference that the mission and its partners do not recognize the new states.

In a statement, the SPLM says it is deeply shocked and surprised by the statement of Ms Margrethe.

The secretary for culture, information and communication, says the position of the UN is interference in the internal affairs, and undermines the sovereignty of South Sudan.

Bol Makueng says the UN has violated some of its conventions, which state that the UN has no power to intervene in matters of local character and issues that fall under the responsibilities of the state.

Mr Bol says South Sudan has a constitution that gives powers to institutions such as the legislature, executive and the judiciary to discuss the creation of more states.

However, Ms Margrethe said at the press conference that the UN does not formally recognize the creation of more states in line with a resolution of IGAD Council of Ministers.

The Council urged both sides to discuss the matter under the transitional government. In case they fail, it would be taken to a boundaries commission that would be formed.

Ms Margrethe said the mission and partners were looking forward to a decision by the TGoNU on the matter.