The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has congratulated the people and government of South Sudan on the momentous occasion of the starting point of the formation of the Transitional Government of National Unity (TGNU).

South Sudan’s rebel leader Riek Machar was sworn in as First Vice-President on Tuesday in Juba, capital of the world’s youngest nation. The East Africa regional bloc has expressed its admiration and gratitude to the two parties, including the former detainees and all other stakeholders, who have worked tirelessly to make the day a reality, according to a statement from IGAD on Wednesday.

Mahboub Maalim, IGAD Executive Secretary, said the day marked an important milestone in the long walk towards sustainable peace and stability for South Sudan. "The mood of despair and mistrust has once again been replaced by a light of hope and optimism,” he said, adding that member states of IGAD will redouble their support and continue to demonstrate unswerving solidarity with South Sudan.

The Executive Secretary urged the South Sudan leadership within the government and opposition to continue demonstrating resolve and commitment in implementing the peace agreement. Maalim also commended IGAD partners for having supported the peace process and called on them to continue doing so as "the leadership and the people of South Sudan embark on the arduous journey to foster peace and reconciliation in their country”.

Xinhua