South Sudan factions agree on federal government

Mediators say South Sudan's warring factions have agreed on the installation of a federal system of government in South Sudan.

The regional body IGAD, which is mediating peace talks in Ethiopia, announced Tuesday that the structure and functions of a transitional government of national unity have been "mostly agreed on."

Mediators said, however, that the parties are yet to agree on when to introduce federalism in the world's newest country.

Representatives for the rebels want immediate implementation but the government favors a 30-month transitional period before the next administration can be formed.

South Sudan was plunged into violence last December after the government accused the ousted vice president of launching a failed coup.

Thousands of people have since been killed in violence pitting government forces against renegade troops.