South Sudan President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Thursday appointed his political rival Riek Machar Vice President, a development that could end fighting that has rocked Africa's youngest nation since December 2013.

Do you have a lead on a newsworthy story? Share news tips with us here at Hivisasa!

In the announcement made on state television on Thursday night, the President made the appointment without giving more details.

The appointment ends speculation that Kiir, who took over power after the death of South Sudan first President John Garang de Mabior in a helicopter crash planned to replace Machar following his sacking from government in 2013.

Machar was sacked in July 2013 when President Kiir dissolved cabinet to quell rebellion in the ruling Sudanese Peoples Liberation Movement.

The dissolution of government led to violence triggered by Machar's supporters leading to the displacement of about 200,000 people who sort refuge from United Nations camps.

Machar was fired alongside SPLM Secretary General Pagam Amum.

Kiir, who visited Kisumu in 2009 and installed as Luo elder accused Machar of planning a coup to take over government.