WASHINGTON, Oct 6 (KUNA) -- The US, UK, and Norway expressed "serious concern" over President Salva Kiir's October 2 announcement that he plans to replace South Sudan's 10 states with 28 new states.
"This announcement directly contradicts the Government of South Sudan's commitment to implement the peace agreement it signed on August 26," said the countries in a joint statement released by the State Department on Tuesday.
"One of the primary tasks of the soon to be formed Transitional Government of National Unity is to initiate and oversee a process to complete a permanent constitution that will address such fundamental issues as the structure of the state." The Troika recognized that "the people of South Sudan have long been interested in the issues of federalism and decentralization" but urged the action to be postponed until a constitutional dialogue can take place. (end) ak.hb