The US special envoy to South Sudan and Sudan says a legitimate and transparent referendum commission must be set up in Abyei to enable the citizens there express their will.

Ambassador Donald Booth says a referendum should guarantee the rights of those who traditionally migrate through the region.

Speaking to Eye Radio, Ambassador Booth warned against any attempt at unilaterally holding the referendum next month in Abyei.

“It needs to be legitimate,” he said.  “It has to be done faithfully and it also needs to be done in timely manner.”

Ambassador Booth said the rights of the people of Abyei must be preserved and they must be allowed to determine their future.

He said the referendum must also be done in a way that does not result in renewed conflict.