The SPLM-IO says return of its forces to Juba will be delayed till arrangements for their transportation is finalized.
The government and the SPLM in the opposition last week agreed to an immediate phased implementation of transitional security arrangements that would see the return of an initial 1,370 opposition troops.
Speaking to Radio Miraya from Adiss Ababa, Col William Gatjiath military spokesperson of the SPLM-IO said they are on standby once the logistical arrangements have been sorted out.
“There are a number of reasons also, you know when our troops reach Juba airport, and the government of South Sudan could designate cantonment areas where our troops will be taken when they have arrived in the airport,” said Col William Gatjiath.
He says that the Government in Juba plus the international community need to sort out the logistical requirements before the opposition troops can set off for Juba.
“We need this from Juba. As soon as possible if these things are done properly and we say we are ready, I think the international community, if it has already chartered the flight then we are ready, even this afternoon if they tell us we come – then we are ready and we will go.”