A South Sudanese human rights activist in the US has now spent 15 days on a hunger strike, demanding President Barack Obama’s administration to help bring peace to South Sudan.

Simon Aban, who is an American citizen, says the US played an important role in the independence of South Sudan, and should now help it resolve the current crisis.

“While we [the U.S.] were present and active for the whole process leading up to the birth, afterwards we turned away, washed our hands, and moved on,” he says.

“It is beyond time for the U.S. to step up, take charge, and protect this precious baby we brought into the world. No other country can play this role,” he explains.

He says his message has been received by the White House in Washington DC, and now the Obama administration should take action.