Dr Riek's delegation: Mabior Garang (middle) chats with Spokesman Hussein Maar Nyuot - Jan 4, 2014

The delegation representing former Vice-President Dr. Riek Machar say they are committed to ending the conflict and discuss the release of SPLM political detainees.

Dr. Machar’s delegation is led by the former governor of Unity state, Taban Deng Gai.

The spokesperson for Mr. Machar’s delegation, Hussein Maar Nyuot, told Eye Radio in Addis Ababa that they are ready to discuss with the government all the underlying issues that led to the conflict.

Hussein Maar said a cessation of hostilities and securing the release of SPLM senior officials are at the top of their agenda.

“These are not the only two agendas; we are going to discuss a long list of issues: political issues to do with issues within the SPLM, the root causes of the conflict and issues of governance, and these will definitely follow,” he added.

Yesterday, the government spokesperson, Michael Makuei Lueth, said the government will not negotiate with the rebels on preconditions.

Mr. Makuei said the government will not release prisoners who are accused of crimes without going through the legal process, in accordance with the Constitution of South Sudan.

“This is a condition being attached to the talks; we are not ready to negotiate on preconditions.”

The Chief Negotiator of the government delegation, Nhial Deng Nhial, also said the government is committed to a cessation of hostilities.