Presidential Spokesperson Aten Wek Aten speaks on Taban Deng Gai's Appointment

The former Opposition chief negotiator at the IGAD mediated peace talks, Taban Deng Gai, has been sworn into office as the first vice President of the South Sudan .The swearing in ceremony took place in Juba on Tuesday at the Presidential palace. Dr. Riek Machar fled Juba after fighting broke out in Juba on July 7th. President Kiir then issued an ultimatum requesting Riek Machar, to return to Juba to support the implementation of the peace agreement.

Dr Riak Machar defied the ultimatum and On Monday , South Sudan President Kiir issued a presidential decree replacing first vice President Dr. Riek Machar with opposition lead negotiator Taban Deng.

Atany Wek Atany, President Kiir’s spokesperson described the latest developments as a key step in supporting the implementation of the agreement.