The regional body, IGAD says it will immediately establish a Monitoring and Verification Mechanism, which will be responsible for monitoring the implementation of the agreement on cessation of hostilities.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, and the Chair of IGAD Council of Ministers, Dr. Tedros Adhanom said IGAD would ensure that the agreement is implemented fully.

“IGAD, I assure you, is committed to the immediate launching of the MVM which will monitor observance and implementation mechanism of the agreement,” said Dr Adhanom.

“I assure you that IGAD will continue to assist you, support you in any way possible to bring these negotiations to successful conclusion.”

Dr. Tedros urged the South Sudanese parties to commit themselves to implement the agreement that they have signed in order to bring lasting peace in their country.

“I hope you will agree with me that political solution is the only solution that can bring peace and stability to South Sudan, and we believe you will do it if you uphold your people above everything.”

Dr. Tedros said the people of South Sudan deserve peace and development, not another round of disasters.

The South Sudan peace process was led by IGAD’s special envoys: the former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Ambassador Seyoum Mesfin, General Lazarus Sumbeiuwo of Kenya and General Mohamed Ahmed Mustafa El-Dabi, of Sudan.