The obstacles that have been holding the opposition leader, Dr Riek Machar from returning to Juba have been overcome, the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission has said.

The statement comes after the arrival 39 opposition troops in Juba on Monday, as the first batch of the 1,370 soldiers expected in Juba for the implementation of the security arrangements.

Dr Machar is expected in Juba to take up his office as the First Vice President and to work with President Salva Kiir to form the government of national unity.

The JMEC did not mention the obstacles, but earlier, Dr Riek Machar had said he would not come to Juba until all the 1,370 soldiers were in Juba.

The opposition forces also wanted to be transported with their heavy weapons, but the Troika said it would transport the troops with only their light guns.

In a statement, the JMEC welcomed the arrival of the 39 opposition forces in Juba yesterday.

The Chairperson, Festus Mogae said the rest of the troops will continue to arrive in Juba in the coming days by UN and chartered flights.