South Sudan government to increase number of states to 28

South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has issued an order for an increase in the number of regional states, a move which could threaten a power-sharing deal between the government and rebels signed in August.

The presidential decree, broadcast on state radio, increases to 28 the current number of states, which 10.

Presidential spokesman Ateny Wek Ateny said, “The government has ordered there to be 28 states.”

“This is about giving more power to the people through better service delivery.”

The presidential order must now be passed by the parliament before becoming a law.

The parliament, which is almost entirely in support of President Kiir, is expected to pass the order “within one month,” the spokesman said.

He also said the government in Juba remains committed to the peace deal with rebels.