The U.S State Department says any political changes within the Transitional Government of National Unity should ensure that the implementation of the peace agreement is not hindered.

President Salva Kiir, on the 26th July, swore in Taban Deng Gai as the First Vice President, after formally receiving his nomination by the leadership of the SPLM in opposition.

According to the opposition Spokesperson of the SPLM-IO in Juba, William Ezekiel the announcement of Gai also replaces Dr. Riek Machar as the Chairperson of the group.

The State Department says the changes must sustain the ceasefire within the country.

The Press Relations Director at the Department of States, Elizabeth Trudeau says the United States does not have influence over changes in leadership within the TGoNU.

“We would not that the peace agreement contains procedures and requirements that governs changes in leadership in the Transitional Government –specifically

“The agreement provides that the top leadership body of the Armed Opposition has the power to nominate a new First Vice President, if the position is vacant
She said the US believed that it is up to the leaders of South Sudan to decide on their political leadership.

Ms. Trudeau, however, says the changes should not create more insecurity and derail the implementation of the agreement.

Noting the increased the suffering caused by the recent spate of violence, she said her government expects the Transitional Government and all parties to take every step possible to avoid the fighting and to reach peaceful resolutions of these differences.

Ms. Trudeau also says her government will continue to support South Sudan to ensure the provisions of the peace agreement are implemented.

The U.S State Department had earlier called for sustained cooperation, engagement, and reform to confront the country’s grave challenges which are essential to avoid a return to widespread conflict.