Kiir vows to try people involved in South Sudan 'crimes'

JUBA 

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir on Friday vowed to bring those involved in atrocities and "crimes" in the violence-wracked country to justice.

“For those who committed crimes from December up to now thinking that I will support them, he is a liar. I don't support that," Kiir told a rally marking the 31st anniversary of the founding of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM).

"I will not protect anybody and I have instructed the investigation committee led by Justice (John) Wuol Makec to see that all these people who committed crimes must be punished, if needs be, with death," he added.

South Sudan has been shaken by violence since last December, when Kiir accused sacked vice president Riek Machar of leading a failed coup attempt against his regime.

The conflict has already claimed more than 10,000 lives, with the U.N. estimating that around 1 million South Sudanese have been displaced as a result of the violence.

"This is not the way this country can be developed. We want peace," Kiir said.

Earlier this month, Kiir and Machar signed a peace deal in Addis Ababa to end the conflict in the nascent country.

"We must make efforts to bring back the country to normal and remain united after the crisis that befell the young nation. We must come on top of this crisis," the South Sudanese president said.

"This was just uncalled for," he said of the crisis. "All the same we must follow the vision for our country to make sure all the people in South Sudan are safe and united and because of this, I will call again on my brothers and sisters in the UNMISS camp to come out and stay with their brothers in their homes," Kiir said.

"Let us forget about the past and begin a new life for peace. This is what will propel us forward," he added.

Kiir also reiterated the need to avert the looming famine in the violence-wracked country.

"Humanitarian agencies are saying that up to 3 million people are to face starvation in the country. It is our responsibility to stop this. This is why it is important that we get peace and stability," he said. "I know that with your usual support, regional and international support including UNMISS and other UN agencies, peace will return."

The South Sudanese leader commended the U.N. mission in South Sudan for working with the affected people.

"I commend UNMISS for providing food, shelter and medicine for our affected people in South Sudan," Kiir said.

By Okech Francis

englishnews@aa.com.tr