The peace partners should take immediate steps to speed up the implementation of the peace agreement, the Minister of Federal Affairs in the Transitional Government of National Unity says

Dr Richard K. Mullah says this will prevent the intervention of the international community that has been approved by the UN Security Council.

Dr Mullah says issues such as the release of political detainees and prisoners of war, the cantonment of forces and the 28 states should be given urgent consideration.

He says resolving these issues will also show willingness by the transitional government to fully implement the agreement.

Dr Mullah was addressing the matter to the First Vice President, Taban Deng during a meeting of the SPLM IO in Juba on Saturday.

“The issue of the 28 states; yes, an agreement has been made to form a 15-persons committee, why can’t this committee be formed, even if certain back-door discussions are taking place?” He asked.

“Why can’t we make the committee to be seen working and consulting with people to come up with result? These are the kind of steps, if taken up immediately, Mr. Fist Vice President, I think, it can be seen that we are working in implementing the agreement in letter and spirit; others will follow later.”

For his part, the First Vice President, Mr Gai made assurances that his group would ensure that the implementation of the agreement is expedited to ensure that there is peace and security in the country.