The head of the negotiating team of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) Taban Deng Gai says both sides at South Sudan’s peace talks have agreed in principle on the duration of a transitional government, and continue to discuss other outstanding issues.

SPLM-IO is negotiating with the other factions SPLM-Former Detainees, SPLM-Juba, civil society and church leaders in Bahir Dar in Ethiopia, while SPLM-DC has been excluded.

Speaking to Radio Miraya yesterday, Taban Deng said, “We have agreed on the duration of an interim period of three years. We have almost agreed on the function of the transitional government of national unity.” 

He said differences remain over the division of power within the Executive, with SPLM-IO wanting a strong prime minister position. He mentioned also the question of federalism remains a matter of discussion, without resolution so far.

Taban noted, “We believe that if the two problems on the system of governance and the structure of leadership are overcome, then we have an agreement.”

File photo: Taban Deng Gai, former governor of Unity State