The US says South Sudanese opposition groups must channel their efforts into dialogue instead of working to change the government.

The opposition includes anti-government groups which have declared the use of force to change the government.

In a statement released by the US Department of State, the US says it is deeply troubled by repeated calls from opposition leaders to attack Juba and overthrow the government.

“The opposition must channel its efforts into dialogue instead of working to overthrow the government,” reads part of the statement.

The State Department also said UNMISS must be permitted to do its job unobstructed, and the Regional Protection Force must be permitted to deploy.

The Assistant Secretary and Department Spokesperson, John Kirby, said the US has noted President Kiir’s call for a national dialogue and urges both sides to create conditions required for the dialogue to succeed.

Mr Kirby said in the statement yesterday that both sides should end violence against civilians, support humanitarian access, and respect the cease fire.

He said it is important that all parties work together to forge a resolution and bring peace to South Sudan.

Mr Kirby also said that the government must meet its responsibilities for safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms, including Freedom of the Press.

He said there is a continuing threat to peace and security in South Sudan, which needs additional actions by the international community.

These include an arms embargo and targeted sancitions, which Russia has opposed, saying the actions would be the height of irresponsibility.

Mr Kirby said the US will support those engaging in peaceful and inclusive dialogue as a means to resolve the current crisis and work toward a peaceful future that South Sudan deserves.

“As we and our partners in the international community continue to pursue these measures, we will support those engaging in peaceful and inclusive dialogue as a means to resolve the current crisis and work toward the peaceful future that the people of South Sudan deserve,” concludes the statement.