South Sudan’s people look forward to the possible return of rebel leader Riek Machr to Juba on Monday, hoping his return will finally bring peace back into the country.
Machar is expected to take up the position of vice president in an African Union-backed peace deal that will see a transitional government take shape.
The world’s youngest nation descended into conflict in December 2013 after President Salva Kiir accused Machar, his then-deputy, of wanting to stage a coup against his government.
Machar refuted the allegations but went on to mobilize a rebel force to fight the government.
Ahead of his return, a 1,370-strong rebel force arrived in Juba last week to ensure his security when he arrives in the capital.
His deputy also arrived into the capital this week to finish the formalities before his arrival.
The two year conflict killed thousand and displaced millions from their homes.
Next week however, the people of South Sudan hope the new transitional government will unite the country.
Among the issues they want addressed are the resumption of the development projects that were started after the 2011 secession from Sudan, the growth of the economy and the creation of jobs for the country’s youth.
Sami Alier, a businessman in Juba, said he expects the new transitional unity government will bring unity to the nation, and that he is hopeful the economy will pick up.
“Business has been on a low since the war started. We want a working government and unity across the country”, he said.
