The Chief Mediator of IGAD, Ambassador Seyoum Mesfin has appealed to the leaders of South Sudan to end violence and suffering.

At a press conference organized today, Ambassador Mesfin says history should not repeat itself.

“Let us make this last, appalling year of horror and tragedy, not an indicator of South Sudan’s future but a shocking reminder of the dangers of choosing war over peace, division over harmony, and destruction over creation and hate over empathy.” He said.

“These choices have caused so much suffering. Let us not continue these mistakes any longer.” Mesfin added.

Ambassador Mesfin said the South Sudan talks is expected to resume on the 17th of this month and that the warring parties are expected to submit their report to an IGAD Summit.

“let’s hope and let’s bank on the leaders and people of South Sudan that they will make the upcoming Summit and the resumption of what we call now the Third Phase, First Session be the final one to conclude their negotiations, reach agreement on some outstanding issues so that the implementation process of their agreements could begin.” The Chief Negotiator urged the parties.

Ambassador Seyoum reiterated the region’s commitment to help South Sudan find a lasting solution to the war.