IGAD heads of state to discuss crisis in South Sudan

Intergovernmental Authority on Development leaders are holding a crisis meeting in Ethiopia over the political crisis in South Sudan.

Heads of State from Dijbouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea, Sudan, Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda are expected to be present to find a solution to end the latest wave of violence in the world’s youngest nation.

However, South Sudan’s leader Salva Kiir will not be present for the meeting but his newly appointed Vice-President Taban Deng Gai will be representing him.

The meeting has been called in light of the deteriorating situation in the country following the July 15 ouster of First Vice-President Riek Machar by Salva Kiir.

The meeting will also delve into the prevailing situation in Juba after violence erupted between factions loyal to President Salva Kiir and his former Vice President Riek Machar.

The UN has voiced concerns at the humanitarian situation in the country and in particular the violence against civilians.

IGAD has backed the African Union and United Nations proposal to send troops into South Sudan.

Press Agencies