SOUTH SUDAN: Rebels reject dialogue offer

South Sudan rebels led by former Vice-President Riek Machar have dismissed the national dialogue announced by President Salva Kiir yesterday. In a damning statement they say, “This is yet another campaign by the regime in Juba to derail the peace process beyond salvation.” On Monday, President Kiir announced the dialogue and a unilateral ceasefire. He […]

South Sudan rebels led by former Vice-President Riek Machar have dismissed the national dialogue announced by President Salva Kiir yesterday.

In a damning statement they say, “This is yet another campaign by the regime in Juba to derail the peace process beyond salvation.”

On Monday, President Kiir announced the dialogue and a unilateral ceasefire.

He said everyone could take part in the talks except Mr Machar, though he would be welcome to send a delegation. And this has not gone down well.

The rebels welcome the ceasefire call, but question the sincerity accusing the president of reneging on previous ceasefire deals.

The civil war, which began in December 2013, has displaced millions of people in a country which is now facing a famine.