New era: Sudan rebels, govt sign peace pact

DIPLOMACY   PEACE

JUBA - At least 13 rebel factions and the transitional government in Khartoum have signed the final pact to end hostilities and usher peace in Sudan after 17 years of hostilities.

Dubbed the Sudan Peace Agreement, the pact was signed in Juba, South Sudan on Saturday under the mediation of South Sudan President Salva Kiir.

The event was attended by hundreds of members from the different factions in Sudan.

South Sudan First Vice President Dr Riek Machar also attended the event that was witnessed by several regional leaders.

The groups carried flags for their factions as some women lifted high white doves as a sign of peace.

Earlier, the secretary of the mediation committee and also investment minister of South Sudan, Dhieu Mathok, said the deal signifies the end of bloodshed in Darfur.

Uganda was represented by PM Ruhakana Rugunda.