Talks between the government and the SPLM-in Opposition have been postponed without the two sides signing of the Declaration of Principle and a Permanent Ceasefire agreement.

IGAD mediators sent the delegations on a two weeks break to enable them prepare for the next round of talks which will be inclusive.

During the recess, the IGAD Special Envoys will undertake shuttle mission to South Sudan to consult with different stakeholders.

The spokesperson of the government negotiation team, Michael Makuei Lueth said that they have not signed the matrix and the framework for the negotiations.

Mr. Makuei said the break will enable IGAD mediators prepare for an inclusive dialogue in June.

“After that, the principals- that is President Salva Kiir and rebel leader Dr. Riek Machar – would meet on the 8th of June, and that will now be the launching of the process once again,” he said.

Mr. Makuei said the government accepts the participation of all stakeholders in talks in on the transitional process in South Sudan.

“Our position is inclusivity, not selectivity, he added.”

“All the stakeholders who are expected to participate are; all the political parties, civil society organizations, business people, the academia, women and the youth.

“However, it is not clear to us as to whether all of us are going to negotiate the ceasefire or not; because the ceasefire is supposed to be negotiated by the government and the rebels only, because these are people who have taken up arms.

“Other political issues can be addressed, yes, by all the parties.”

The next phase of the mediation process shall commence on the 4th of June in Addis Ababa.

Earlier this month, the two sides recommitted their forces to the implementation of the cessation of hostilities agreement.

They agreed to open up humanitarian corridors in River Nile, Sobat, roads, rail and air corridors.

They also agreed to facilitate humanitarian assistance and observe one month of a temporary ceasefire.