The two SPLM factions; the SPLM and the former detainees have resolved that the conflict in the country can only be solved peacefully.

The SPLM leadership in Juba yesterday conducted the first joint meeting with the advance team of the former detainees which arrived in the country on Monday.

The meeting held in Juba was chaired by the Chairman of SPLM, Salva Kiir Mayardit.

Akol Paul, SPLM – Juba spokesperson of the Arusha talks, said the meeting also discussed the implementation of the Arusha agreement.

“This meeting was cordial – very fruitful. We discussed the status of the implementation of Arusha Agreement and we have agreed to move forward,” Mr Paul said, “recommit ourselves to the implementation of Arusha Agreement and recommit ourselves collectively for peaceful resolution of the conflict in South Sudan.”

In the Arusha agreement, the signatories vowed — once again — to comply with the provisions of a cessation of hostilities agreement signed in 2014, and to make a “public apology to the people of South Sudan for what has happened since December 15, 2013.”

They also agreed to “combat the culture of tribalism, militarism and sectarianism” in politics, and to work toward building a South Sudan in which political efforts are focused on democracy and development.