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The United States has reiterated its call on the Transitional Government of National Unity to declare a nation-wide ceasefire and release political detainees following the renewal of United Nations sanctions on South Sudan.

On Sunday, the United Nations Security Council renewed sanctions on South Sudan, extending the mandate of the Panel of Experts as well as the arms embargo, travel ban, and asset freeze measures for an additional 12 months.

The sanctions were renewed after seven members of the Security Council voted in favour, while six abstained.

Reacting to the decision, the U.S. Alternative Representative for Special Political Affairs, Ambassador Jennifer Locetta, welcomed the Security Council’s action

She described it as an opportunity for the Panel of Experts to reassess the existing benchmarks in light of the continuing deterioration of the political and security situation in South Sudan.

Ambassador Locetta urged the Transitional Government to take all necessary steps to restore peace and stability, including declaring a nationwide ceasefire and releasing political detainees.

In a statement seen by Eye Radio, the United States also called on the government to renounce the use of violence for political purposes and to ensure that public revenues are used to improve the lives of South Sudanese citizens.

“We therefore urge the Transitional Government to deliver all steps necessary to restore peace, including declaring a national ceasefire; releasing detainees; renouncing the use of violence for political purposes; and starting to use public revenue appropriately to support the citizens of South Sudan.” The statement partly reads.

The United States further criticized the ruling leaders for what it described as poor governance, misuse of public resources, and the continued marginalization of South Sudanese citizens, people for whom the country once fought during the struggle against the Khartoum government.