The United States has warned that UN sanctions will be imposed on both the government and the SPLM in Opposition forces if ceasefire violations continue.

Clashes have been reported in Upper Nile, Jonglei and Unity State since the ceasefire declared by the leaders of the two sides came to force at midnight on Saturday.

In a state, the deputy spokesman of the state department, Mark C. Toner, said the recent fighting by forces on both sides is contrary to the terms of the peace agreement.

“The recent cease-fire declarations by the Government of South Sudan and the opposition, ordering all forces to cease military operations on August 29, were welcomed as a step toward implementation of the agreement that now binds the parties,” Mr Mark said.

“However, recent fighting by forces on both sides runs contrary to those orders and the terms of the peace agreement.”

Mark C. Toner said anyone acting to spoil the peace agreement implementation will face consequences.

He said the US would work with its partners at the UN Security Council to pursue sanctions authorized in March this year.

“The United States will continue to stand with those who choose peace and are committed to faithful implementation of the agreement,” the statement partly reads.

The Council has already sanctioned six generals on both sides over their roles in the conflict.