Elvince Joshua
Africa-Press – South-Sudan. The Vice President of Service Cluster, Hussein Abdelbagi, has challenged parties to the revitalised peace agreement to surrender all weapons in their jurisdictions as a way of commitment to lasting peace.
Abdelbagi spoke on behalf of opposition parties under the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) umbrella. He said that all leaders must now join forces and pull together in one direction if they are truly committed to bringing a lasting solution to the violence that has wrecked the nation over the years.
“There is a need to collect unauthorised guns or the parties to the agreement to surrender all weapons in their custody to the unity government,” Abdelgabi said.
He argued that if done, this would open up parts of the country still considered “inaccessible” and encourage the free movement of people within South Sudan without fear.
“Equally important is the collection of guns from the parties to the agreement.” This will make inaccessible places accessible and allow business to go on as people move freely, ” added the VP.
He was speaking at the Dr. John Garang Mausoleum that hosted the graduation of the first batch of more than 52,000 Necessary Unified Forces now under the command of President Salva Kiir.
Abdelbagi urged the newly graduated officer to serve diligently.
“The graduation of forces comes at a time when South Sudan is facing security challenges.” Fortunately, these forces will fill the vacuum and become agents of the law, leading to improved security.
“Peace and stability are key preconditions for sustainable development in the region.” Without this, and a stable political atmosphere, the country cannot develop,” added Abdelbagi.
He added: “I urge the graduating class to maintain discipline and good morals; to uphold professionalism.” Your role is to protect the citizens, and properties and to defend our country.
“From today onwards, you will be under the unified command of President Salva Kiir. Remember that you do not belong to any party or tribe. You are the national army, whose allegiance and loyalty you owe to South Sudan.”
President Kiir revealed in his speech that there is an improved level of trust between the parties to the agreement, further emphasizing that the country will never return to war.
But Abdelbagi challenged his compatriot to show full commitment by fulfilling key chapters like mopping out illegal guns from the hands of civilians.
“I call on parties to the agreement to support disarmament exercises nationwide.”
He further appealed to the international community to consider lifting the arms embargo, arguing that sanction slows down the implementation of the peace process.
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