US sanctions Sudanese officials over threat to peace

The United States has imposed sanctions on two senior South Sudanese officials it accused of fomenting conflict.

US treasury department made the announcement in its latest move to pressure the country’s politicians to form a unity government.

Deputy treasury secretary Justin Muzinich made the disclosure in forum.

Minister of cabinet affairs Martin Elia Lomuro and minister of defense and veteran affairs Kuol Manyang Juuk were blacklisted for their role in perpetuating the conflict by obstructing the peace process.

The sanctions freeze any US assets held by the officials and prohibit Americans from doing business with them.

The latest sanctions come as Washington is reevaluating its relationship with the African Nation after South Sudanese president Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar agreed in November to give themselves more time to form a unity government.