US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Photo: TNS
Juba, November 25, 2019 (SSNA) — The United States’ ambassador to South Sudan, Thomas Hushek, has been recalled by Washington for consultations over the failure of South Sudan’s rival parties to form a transitional government, the South Sudan News Agency (SSNA) has learned.
The announcement comes less than two weeks after South Sudan’s parties failed to form a provisional government.
The US State Department says on Monday that recall of ambassador Hushek is a part of its comprehensive re-evaluation of the United States’ relationship with South Sudan’s government. The State Department also asserts that the American government will continue supporting the East African region to achieve lasting peace in the war-wracked young nation.
South Sudan’s rival leaders, President Salva Kiir and Dr. Riek Machar strike a deal on November 7 in Kampala, extending the pre-transitional period for 100 days. The 7th of November extension is the third time since the agreement was inked last year.
The two leaders failed to form a transitional government on May 12 and November 12.
The government of South Sudan downplays the decision, saying Juba is talking with Washington.