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Uneasy calm shattered as soldiers, civilians die in Juba shootout

First Vice President Riek Machar (L) delivers a speech to journalists next to South Sudan President Salva Kiir (C) and Vice President James Wani Igga (R) prior to the shooting outside the presidential palace in Juba on July 8, 2016. PHOTO | CHARLES ATIKI LOMODONG |

The uneasy peace that has been holding in South Sudan since April has finally broken after two forces allied to President Salva Kiir and his deputy Dr Riek Machar clashed in Juba.

Seven soldiers belonging to President Kiir were killed at a roadblock in Juba on Thursday night when forces loyal to Dr Machar refused to undergo a routine inspection resulting into an exchange of fire.

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