The IGAD-led mediation convened the fifth session of negotiations

PRESS RELEASE  (IGAD)

5 August 2014, Addis Ababa: After six weeks of extensive consultations with the  stakeholders, IGAD member states, and international partners, the IGAD-led  mediation convened the fifth session of negotiations on 4 August 2014. The  stakeholders, including the Government of the Republic of South Sudan and the 

SPLM/A (In Opposition) had repeatedly assured the mediation of their commitment  to the inclusive, multi-stakeholder roundtable peace process and the modalities for  comprehensive talks.

On 5 August 2014, the SPLM/A (In Opposition) failed to attend the peace process for  South Sudan. The mediation renews its call to the SPLM/A (In Opposition) to honour  its commitment to resolve the crisis. The mediation expects the SPLM/A (In  Opposition) to immediately return to and fully participate in the multi-stakeholder  negotiations, which will continue on 6 August 2014. The mediation further calls on  the people of South Sudan, IGAD Member States and international partners to urge  the SPLM/A (In Opposition) to return to the ongoing peace talks without further  delay.