The chief mediator of the Sudanese peace negotiations has announced that direct talks between the Sudanese government and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) Al Hilu faction are slated for May 24, 2021, in Juba.

Speaking to the press on Tuesday afternoon, Tut Galuak who is also President Salva Kiir’s advisor on security, said the Sudanese government and SPLM-N officials recently signed a declaration of principles but that there were still differences over the issue of a secular state.

He confirmed that the government in Juba had completed all arrangements for the talks and that a schedule had been developed.

“We extended an invitation to all delegates and party members to join and participate in the negotiations on the 24th of this month,” Tut said.

According to Tut, a meeting has been scheduled between the government and the U.S special envoy to Sudan and South Sudan, Ambassador Donald Booth, to discuss the security situation in Sudan and the Sudan peace process.

He revealed that the leader of the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM), Abdul Wahid Mohammed Nur, is currently in Juba and consultations are underway to identify an agenda for the peace talks with him.

“He (Abdul Wahid) has been in Juba after being invited by President Kiir. He met the president already and we are still waiting for his thoughts about the negotiations and peace process in Sudan,” Tut said.

On another note, the presidential advisor explained that the newly appointed 550 members of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly were appointed as stipulated in the revitalized peace agreement. He said even though these numbers seem to be a little huge compared to other nations in the region, it was accepted by President Kiir for the sake of peace and stability in the country.

“Our president is keen that peace and stability prevail in this country so that our citizens can be safe. These 550 members will work together and make sure that our people experience peace,” Tut reassured.

Asked if the appointed members include Vice president Taban Deng Gai’s group, Tut said Taban is part of the SPLM party and his members are being appointed based on that.