US deeply concerned over political developments in South Sudan

The State department released a statement late Wednesday detailing US concern over South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit's decision to dismiss senior cabinet members. "The United States is deeply concerned by the risk to stability posed by South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit's decision to dismiss Vice President Riek Machar, the members of his cabinet, deputy ministers, and a number of police brigadier generals. President Kiir has also relieved Pa'gan Amum, the Secretary General of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement," the State department said. The move marked the biggest government reorganization since the nation gained independence from Sudan two years ago. The US encouraged the South Sudanese government to refrain from violence and to quickly and transparently form a new cabinet that "reflects the diversity of the South Sudanese people, and that respects its Transitional Constitution and the democratic ideas the new country has espoused." The State department insisted during this time of grave challenges, it is critical that South Sudan stay true to the vision it laid out for itself two years ago at its independence. "That vision can only be realized through sustained commitment to democracy and good governance, justice and accountability, and respect for rule of law and the human rights of all of South Sudan's people," the statement said.