The UN Security Council has adopted a resolution to impose sanctions on South Sudan.

A committee will be set up under the resolution to identify individuals who should be sanctioned.

The Coucnil could impose a travel ban and an assets freeze for an initial period of one year on individuals and entities designated by the sanctions committee.

The travel ban would apply to individuals only, while the assets freeze would include entities such as government, opposition or militia groups.

The sanctions will apply to those extending the conflict, obstructing peace or threatening the formation of a transitional government of national unity.

The resolution was drafted by the United States.

“Under the terms on this resolution, the parties must meet IGAD deadlines for the resolution of all outstanding issues of this conflict and to begin the process of establishing of the transitional government of national unity, said Samantha Power, US permanent representative at the UN.

“The consequences for not doing so could include the designation of senior Individuals for assets and travel banns, or in position of arms embargo.”

The government says sanctions will be against the peace process.

“On the other hand, punishing persons who are playing leading roles at this crucial juncture in the peace process could be counter-productive against the course of peace,” Francis Deng, South Sudan’s permanent representative at the UN, opposed.

The European Union and the United States have already sanctioned three military leaders for allegedly obstructing peace.