Taban set to step down for Machar – FVP Spokesperson
Juba – August 4, 2018 – The First Vice President Taban Deng Gai has accepted to step down from his position for the sake of the peace in the country, this is according to his spokesperson, Agel Ring Machar.
Mr. Agel Ring said Taban Deng has announced his step-down during a meeting with the Sudanese chief negotiator, Al-Dridiri Ahmed.
He says, Al-Dridiri briefed first vice president Taban Deng on the peace process in which he assured his commitment to bring peace and tranquility back to the country.
Agel said Sudanese Minister for Foreign Affairs held the consultation meeting with Taban Deng yesterday on Friday in Juba.
According to the preliminary peace deal signed by the government, the SPLM-IO and other stakeholders, the position of the First Vice President will be given to Dr. Riek Machar.
Mr. Taban Deng Gai was appointed as First Vice President by President Kiir replacing Dr. Riek Machar on 25th of July, 2016.
Taban Deng was appointed after July fighting in Juba in which Dr. Machar fled Juba amidst clashes between his forces and the SPLA.
But, Two weeks ago, the government, the SPLM-IO, and other stakeholders signed a preliminary deal on power sharing, in which gave the position of the First Vice President back to Dr. Riek Machar.
Agel spoke to media after the meeting between Taban Deng and Sudanese Chief Negotiator in Juba on Friday.
“I will be remised if I do not mention that the First Vice President himself, he is the most senior government official that has step-down from his position for the sake of the peace in this country.”
Parties are expected to sign the final peace agreement tomorrow in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum.
