The continued violations of the ceasefire cast doubts on the commitment of the warring parties to implement the peace agreement, IGAD chief mediator Seyoum Mesfin has said.

The violations have been reported in Upper Nile and Unity states between the government troops and the SPLM in Opposition forces since the parties signed the agreement in August.

Mr Mesfin says such actions put the credibility of the parties in the line.

“The continuation of violations of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement is casting doubts on the Parties’ seriousness and commitment to end the crisis through peaceful means,” Mr Mesfin stated.

“The credibility of the Parties is on the line, in front of the eyes of your people and the international community.”

He spoke in Addis Ababa on Wednesday at the opening of a planning meeting for the permanent ceasefire and transitional security arrangements.

“Without these institutions, the realization of the provisions in the Permanent Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangement, and establishment of the Transitional Government of National Unity will be unthinkable.”

Mr Mesfin said the world expects the warring parties to immediately cease hostilities and implement the peace agreement.

Delegates from the government and the SPLM in Opposition are meeting in Addis Ababa to plan the unification of forces and sharing of command during the transitional period.

Members of the Former Political Detainees are also participating at the six-day meeting, which started on Wednesday.