South African Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa is in Juba as part of his continuing efforts to help that country end its civil war and re-unite the divided ruling party.

“The working visit by Deputy President Ramaphosa is part of efforts to consolidate unity within the ranks of ruling Sudanese Peoples Liberation Movement (SPLM), with a view to sustain lasting peace and stability and to lay a basis for the post-conflict reconstruction and development for the benefit of the people of South Sudan,” the Presidency said in a statement here Monday.

Ramaphosa, who serves as a special envoy of President Jacob Zuma to South Sudan, has been working alongside the Secretary-General of Tanzania’s ruling party, Abdulrahman Kinana, for the restoration of unity within the ranks of the SPLM.

As a precursor to the creation of peace and stability in that country, South Sudanese President Salva Kirr agreed to the formation of the transitional unity government, which saw former rebel leader Riek Machar being sworn in as first vice-president.

Ramaphosa is scheduled to meet President Kirr, Machar, Vice-President Dr Wani Igga, and Ministers Deng Alor Kuol and Jemma Kumba.

Meanwhile, the Presidency said the South African government was working around the clock in conjunction with the government of South Sudan to ensure the repatriation of the remains of a South African peacekeeper, Warrant Officer Muzwandile Joel Sithole.

“The Government has made arrangements for the members of the bereaved family to fly to Juba today (Monday) to assist in the repatriation process,” the Presidency said.

Sithole, who was part of the Presidential Protection Services (PPS) of the South African Police Service (SAPS), passed away on Friday after a sudden illness while on official duty in Juba.

SOURCE: NAM NEWS NETWORK