The President says he is still committed to peace and dialogue with the SPLM in the Opposition in order to end the conflict in South Sudan.

President Salva Kiir was addressing the nation on the occasion of the third anniversary of the country’s independence at Dr. John Garang Mausoleum in Juba this morning.

He also renewed the amnesty he granted to all the factions that took up arms against the government of South Sudan.

President Kiir commended the efforts of the regional body, the IGAD, in mediating the peace process with the opposition.

“I want to reiterate my position once again on this special day that I am still committed to peace and dialogue IGAD mediation process in order to end up the crisis, and preserve peace and security in our young country as well as in this region,” Kiir told the celebrants.

President Kiir urged the people of South Sudan to focus on peace and reconciliation.

“Let us focus on peace, reconciliation and coming back together. I sincerely know one thing in you my people that your love for South Sudan is great and nobody will change that.”

President Kiir also thanked his Ugandan counterpart, Yoweri Museveni, for sending troops to South Sudan when the conflict erupted in mid-December last year to protect government facilities.

He said the Ugandan forces present in South Sudan should not be seen as negative forces in the country.

President Kiir said he will not order the Uganda troops to leave South Sudan until there is an assurance that the country’s institutions are secured.