The United States has expressed disappointment over the failure of Dr Riek Machar to return to Juba.

In a statement, the spokesperson of the Department of State says Dr Riek did not abide by his own commitments.

John Kirby says this is an obstruction of the peace process.

“His failure to go to Juba despite efforts from the international community places the people of South Sudan at risk of further conflict and suffering, and undermines the peace agreement’s reform pillars, which are demilitarizing South Sudan, injecting transparency of public finances, and pursuing justice and reconciliation, all of which offer South Sudan a chance for renewal,” Mr Kirby spoke at a press briefing in Washington, Dc.

“This represents a willful decision by him not to abide by his own commitments to implement the agreement on the resolution of the conflict in the Republic of South Sudan,” he said.

The Department of State has also called upon the government to exercise maximum flexibility for the sake of peace.

Dr Riek Machar failed over the last two days to come to Juba to take up his position as the First Vice President due to a disagreement over more soldiers to come with him.

The Minister of Information, Michael Makuei said the government would only accept 40 soldiers to come with Dr Riek while the opposition wants more.