The US Secretary of State has again warned today the SPLM/SPLA Opposition leader, Riek Machar of repercussions if he refuses to take part in the face-to-face talks with President Salva Kiir.

Discussion between US Secretary of State, John Kerry and President Salva Kiir last week resolved that there was a need for direct talks between the two leaders for a lasting solution.

Riek Machar was quoted in an interview with Sudan Tribune website as saying that face to face talks between him and President Kiir would not produce any solutions.

Speaking from the Angolan Capital Luanda, John Kerry said ‘there are other serious implications and possible consequences’.

He said Dr Riek has a “fundamental decision” to make, else, number of different options that are available.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Barnaba Marial says there is willingness for face to face talks between the two men are likely to take place early this week.

“This was a request which was agreed here in Nairobi on the 27th of December, under the chair of the then Prime Minister of Ethiopia, that there would be a need for a direct negotiation between President Kiir and the rebel leader,” said Dr Marial.

“Our president Salva Kiir Mayardiit completely agreed that there was nothing that could prevent him.”

Dr. Marial said the discussions will be mediated by member countries of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development, IGAD.

After the meeting with the US Secretary of State last week, the IGAD declared that it was taking full charge of the South Sudan peace talks and any country that wants to take part must channel ideas through it.

The meeting also pointed out position of the US government, that the African countries are better placed in resolving conflicts afflicting the continent.