South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir called for a national dialogue in an effort to end three-year civil that has engulfed the world’s youngest nation.
Kiir calls coincides with the start of traditional fighting season and the eve of the civil war’s third anniversary.
In his speech to the Members of Parliament on Wednesday, President Kiir emphasized the importance of having a round table dialogue to bring peace in the country.
The dialogue process will be led by a panel of eminent personalities and would greatly involve the people of South Sudan.
The aims of the initiative, he noted, are to “save the country from disintegration and usher in a new era of peace, stability and prosperity.”
He thus asked all those still bearing arms to lay down their weapons.
In that spirit, President Kiir however issued an order to both government and rebel forces “to immediately cease hostilities".
He called on the forces to join hands and protect their fellow citizens and prepare the ground for a more peaceful, secure and joyous Christmas and New Year.
