Abyei Area

President Salva Kiir has said that the Abyei referendum may not be conducted in October.

Speaking today at a press conference in Juba, the President said that the referendum will definitely take place and organization for it must continue despite no date being set.

“The referendum will be held but it may not take place as scheduled,” said Mr. President.

“But we must continue to organize the process until the time we will be told that there is no referendum because it is still under discussion.

“So, we should not worry about it……”

The status of Abyei remains one of the unsettled disputes between Sudan and South Sudan.

Earlier this week, Sudan said that South Sudan should not hold a unilateral referendum, but must be involved in creating joint civil structures to ensure its smooth running.

Thousands of protesters gathered in Agok town, Abyei, on Tuesday to demonstrate their support for an October referendum.

Floods

President Salva Kiir also spoke about the issue of the widespread floods across South Sudan.

He said he was aware how devastating the floods have been for so many people all around the country.

He vowed to immediately tackle the situation through government channels.

“We quickly resolved to form a taskforce consisting of nine ministers to address the matter,” he said.

“The taskforce is headed by the minister of cabinet affairs and charged with the responsibility of mapping out the flood affected areas across the country.’’