The Chairperson of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC) Festus Mogae has appealed for immediate cessation of hostilities in South Sudan and an immediate return to the implementation of the Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan.

It is his first statement since heavy clashes broke out in Juba on Friday afternoon.

According to JMEC, Mogae has reacted with regret to the reported fighting in Juba, which has not relented in the past two days. He has called on the parties to the conflict to exercise restraint to avoid any further loss of lives and destruction of property.

Mogae also expressed condolences for the families of those killed in the fighting, and concern for those displaced. Hundreds are said to be dead and 10,000 displaced.

He expressed his earnest hope that his ongoing efforts to engage President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar will yield positive results, in de-escalating the conflict, and ensuring the expeditious implementation of the Peace Agreement. 

Mogae also appealed to IGAD, AU, UN, and the internaitonal community to help secure stability and provide humanitarian assistance in every manner possible.