Darfur News

Sudan to Raise Heglig Oil Output, Sign Deals

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Wed, 09 May 2012 13:14:00 +0000

Khartoum :Sudan Vision Daily

Sudan's crude oil production at Heglig oilfield will increase to 80,000 barrels per day and exploration deals for six blocks will be signed soon, as it moves to make up for a big loss in oil exports, Petroleum Minister has said.
"We assure you the Petroleum Ministry is moving along in its programme for this year, to upgrade production and increase it from blocks 2 and 4, which represent the Heglig area, to a ceiling of 80,000 b/d of crude," Awad Ahmed Al-Jaz told Parliament yesterday.
“The Government of South Sudan has been dragging its feet at the negotiation table and at times making arrogant offers” he said, adding “We have accepted the proposals tabled by the AUHIP headed by Thabo Mbeki but South Sudan negotiators were intransigent”
“The hasty shutdown of oil by the Government of South Sudan was evidence of bad intention towards Sudan and the Sudanese people” Al-Jaz said in his statement to the House.
The Minister said increasing oil production is a priority for the Petroleum Ministry, and that plans are underway to design and construct a 147 km pipeline to transport crude oil from oilfields to Bileila.
He said the Ministry has taken necessary measures to ensure continued supply of oil products for local consumption besides the continuation of supply of electricity to the people.
The Minister said last week that Heglig, which had a capacity of about 55,000 b/d, had been repaired and was pumping oil again but he did not elaborate.

“The design was to destroy oil facilities in Heglig including the control centre and power generation stations so that oil pumping from Heglig ceases for years to come but they have been disappointed by the quick repair of facilities and resumption of oil production” the Minister said.
He added that the way the oil facilities have been damaged indicate involvement of foreign experts and technicians who have full knowledge of oil industry-related matters.

He said the Ministry gathered sufficient evidence regarding the attack on Heglig that incriminate the Government of South Sudan, adding that assessment of magnitude of damage done to oil facilities in Heglig was continuing and that a visit was arranged for investors to see for themselves the evidence of scale of havoc wrecked by the South Sudan army in Heglig.
Al-Jaz said a global tender had been conducted for six unlicensed blocks and exploration deals would be signed in the coming month.
"We received more than 70 offers from international companies," he said.
Heglig is central to Sudan's economy, which has already had to cope with the loss of oil revenues after the south seceded.
On Tuesday, the Finance Minister said the dispute had created a $2.4 billion gap in Sudan's public finances and caused exports to plunge 83 percent.
The Heglig field is operated by Greater Nile Petroleum Operating Co (GNPOC), a consortium of Chinese, Malaysian, Indian and Sudanese companies.
GNPOC said in March it would go ahead with plans to increase output to 70,000 bpd from 60,000 b/d.
South Sudan inherited three-quarters of the oil when it gained independence from its northern neighbour last July, leaving Sudan with a capacity of about 115,000 b/d.
The South needs to export its crude via the North to a Red Sea terminal at Port Sudan, but both countries have been unable to agree on an oil transit fee.
(DN)

Fire Services Putout Fire on Higlig Infrastructures Set By SPLA

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:43:00 +0000

Fire services was able to putout fire set by Southern Sudan army (SPLA)on Higlig oil fields and facilities amid SPLA invading the area which now is freed from invaders after fierce counter battle launched by Sudan armed forces on Friday . The fire was putout using adv aced technology by Sudanese cadres without asking help from foreign party, reported local media Monday. Media reports say engineers and technicians are now working hard to repair facilities for restart oil production. Civil defense chief Gen Hashim Hussain told ALShiroq T.V channel Sunday that all fire service staff involved in putting out fire on Higlig facilities and that he confirmed oil pumping will resume soon.
(DN)

The Decisive Lesson: Get Back and Never Again

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:27:00 +0000

The Sudanese President has dismissed reports that the South Sudan Army (SPLA) voluntarily withdrew from Heglig, saying the territory was recaptured by the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) by force.

Addressing spontaneous procession staged by a huge number of citizens who rushed to the Army Headquarters to celebrate the victory over SPLA, Field Marshal Omer Hassan Al-Bashir saluted all sections of the Sudanese people including the political forces for their support to the army, and warned rebel movements in the Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan States to cease destabilizing the areas or else they will meet the same fate.

The President told the gather of jubilant citizens in front of the Army HQs that SAF is ready to defend the motherland and safeguard gains of the country.

The Sudanese Defence Minister broke the news of liberation of Heglig by SAF and other organized forces backed by the Popular Defence Forces (PDF, saying the army inflicted on SPLA and other mercenaries heavy casualties in lives and equipment in fierce battles that raged for more than a week.
Gen. Abdel Rahim Mohamed Hussein, who readout statement yesterday breaking the news of the liberation, said the southern people are made to pay for wars triggered by the SPLM which rules the South.
Khartoum Citizens
Gen. Hussein said Heglig territory was recaptured by force, and the southern army and other mercenaries were booted out of the region.
He said the SAF advanced towards Heglig based on a well thought strategy to avoid destroying the remaining oil facilities in Heglig, adding the armed forces entered Heglig yesterday at 2:20 afternoon and the soldiers performed “Friday and Thanksgiving prayers”.
Gen. Hussein said the army fought heroic battles over the last week in which they inflicted heavy losses in lives and equipment against South Sudan.
The Defence Minister pledged that SAF would continue to track down the agents and mercenaries wherever they are until they are finished off. He assured the Sudanese people that SAF would continue its efforts until the set mission is accomplished and the people feel safe and secure. He congratulated the Sudanese people on the victory achieved by their valiant army.
Meanwhile, Presidential Assistant, Col. Abdel Rahman Al-Sadiq Al-Mahdi, addressing a similar spontaneous rally in Sudan’s twin city of Omdurman called for prosecution of the Government of Southern Sudan for starting the war.
Col. Al-Mahdi said South Sudan is implementing a foreign agenda which will not advance the interest of the southern Sudanese people, citing the unification of ranks of the Sudanese people and their strong support to their army.
It is worth noting that just a week ago, on 12th April, South Sudan President rejected calls to withdraw troops. In a speech to South Sudan Parliament, Salva Kiir also threatened to send troops into Abyei if Sudan did not withdraw from the region.
“I will not order the forces to withdraw from Heglig,” Kiir told parliament, despite calls by the African Union and United Nations to pull out. President Kiir said he had received numerous appeals from the international community to withdraw SPLA troops, including a call from United Nation's Secretary-General Ban-Ki Moon. "Last night I never slept because of the telephone calls," he said. "Those who have been calling me — starting with the U.N. Secretary-General yesterday — he gave me an order that I'm ordering you to immediately withdraw from Heglig. I said I'm not under your command," Kiir said

(DN)

NCP Urges for Probing Violating Rights in Higlig

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 17:05:00 +0000

National congress party urges international community to probe SPLA (southern Sudan) for implication in serious human rights violations against prisoners of war at Higlig in southern Korofan amid invading the area last week. NCP secretary for organizations Adil Awad told (smc) that SPLA had committed atrocities against civilians in Higlig contradicting with whole humanity principles. SPLA violations against civilians include predisposing PWO and civilians to severe situations and it halts service access to captive people, Awad told (smc). He cited that mistreatment of medical team at Higlig hospital represents war crime and clear violation to Geneva convections. Meanwhile Awad said that GOSS must bear consequences and full responsibility of such practices.
(DN)

AL Sisi Urges Sothern Sudan Pullout Troops from Higlig

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:16:00 +0000

Darfur regional authority chairman AL Tigani AL Sisi urges government of southern Sudan pullout troops from Higig on ground that the area is a Sudanese land, reported media Thursday quoting AL Sisi by saying. Meanwhile AL sisi calls upon Sudanese nation for unity and lineup together to liberate Hglig. AL Sisi gave this statement Wednesday amid visiting war injured persons admitted to medical corp. in Omdurman. It notes that AL Sisi retuned home Wednesday form Ethiopian town of Bahr Radar where he attended a conference on peace and security launched in the town.

(DN)

SAF Engages in Fierce Fight against Southern Sudan Invaders

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 09:53:00 +0000

Sudan Armed forces engage in fierce fighting against SPLA for southern Sudan to liberate Higlig in southern Kordofan state since Wednesday, reported media Thursday. It reportedly the SPLA predisposed to huge human and material damages in confrontation with SAF inside Higlig. The fierce fight resulted in the death of SPLA invading force commander colonel Tomas and his deputy. SAF according to reports is attacking invaders from three axes.

(DN)

NISS Evidence Confirms GOSS Intends to Burn Higlig Oil Fields

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 09:22:00 +0000

National Intelligence and Security Service NISS reveals that government of southern Sudan leadership gave direct instructions to SPLA that it should set fire on Higlig oil fields. NISS chief Gen Mohamed Atta Al Mawla Abas displays an audio tape chat in press briefing held Thursday at NISS premises in Khartoum delivered by GOSS leaders such as governor of unity state Taban Deng.
Deng, orders SPLA and JEM to set fire on oil fields and other facilities, when they decide pullout from the area.
Gen Abas pointed out that SPLA starts release false allegations that SAF have bombed oil fields after they (SPLA) realized are unable to continue occupying Higlig at time SAF and Mujahedeen creeping towards recapturing the area. Gen Abas explains that GOSS gave these false statements to cover their plan aimed at destroying oil infrastructures. He adds that invaders have been arranging for such crime by importing technicians and engineers to execute the operation in collaboration with JEM. Gen Abas says JEM becomes mercenary terrorist movement that offers its service upon request particularly after it was exploited by Gaddafi in Killing Libyan people. In addition he says JEM also offered its service to Ivory Coast during inter conflict. Now JEM involves in destroying infrastrues built by its own people. Gen Abas warns southern Sudan, SPLA and JEM against destroying oil fields and infrastructures in Higlig. He said the consequences of such act will fall on the head of GOSS including President Salva Kir and SPLA chief of staff James Huth.
(DN)

Higlig isn't a Disputed Area with South Sudan: Defense Minister

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 16:36:00 +0000

Khartoum Sudan Vision Daily :

Sudanese Minister of Defense, Gen. Abdul Rahim Mohammed Hussein, has affirmed that the attack launched by the SPLA was limited to the Sudanese borderline in Higlig area.
In a brief interview to Al-Jazeera TV Channel, Gen. Hussein said Higlig has never been a disputed area between Sudan and South Sudan as it lies inside the Sudanese borders.
He expressed astonishment over remarks by ROSS President, Salva Kiir, who announced that the SPLA had recaptured Higlig by force after they failed to take it by law, an indication that he blessed the attack.
Hussein added that such acts represent a strong blow to the endevours of the delegations of both sides to discuss the outstanding issues.
He said he met with RoSS delegation to Addis Ababa talks, Pagan Amum last Friday and that the latter affirmed that there would be a new positive trend in normalizing the relations between the two countries through resolving all the outstanding issues in the proposed summit between the two presidents but what happened contradicts what Pagan Amum said.
On the postponement of Al Bashir's visit to Juba, Hussein said that the visit is subject to implementing the security arrangements.
Husseian confirmed that the four freedoms framework agreement is an initial agreement subject to amendments before endorsement by the government just like any other agreement; so it is normal for differences to occur between the officials in the NCP and in the government over some of the items included in the initial agreement.
Meanwhile, the government organized a media visit to Heglig oilfield accompanying a delegation led by Minister of Petroleum, Dr. Awad Ahmed Al-Jaz to inspect the situation on the ground.
Petroleum Minister affirmed the continuation of work in the oilfields adding that Sudan would not allow any attack.
For his part, Greater Nile Petroleum Operations Deputy Director said that the daily production in Hamra oilfield amounts to 60,000 barrels/day and will reach 70,000 barrels/day by the end of this year.
In a related development, SAF Deputy Chief of Operations (Training), Lt. Gen. Abdul Moniem Saad affirmed SAF readiness to repulse any attack.

(DN)

Prof. Dafalla Abyei is Northern Town

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 01:12:00 +0000

The Secretary General of the Decentralization Prof. Al-Amin Dafalla has renewed the government's stance that Abyei is a northern Town, rejecting the stance of the government of South Sudan State linking the town and the other disputed border areas to the oil issue . Prof. Dafalla addressing in Khdughli, Wednesday, the Civil Administration Conference accused the SPLM, north of implementation of a foreign agenda which has nothing to do with the interests of the people of the area . He lauded the development projects which are being implemented in the state changed the lives of the people in the area. The Deputy Wali of the State, Mohi-eddin Al-Tom affirmed his government's concern over the civil administration and supporting it to lead the national reconciliation in the state and to strengthen security and peaceful coexistence . (DN)

Dechan: Kir Visit to Israel Aims at Covering Failure

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 16:02:00 +0000

Southern Sudan Democratic Front Party (SSFP) chaired by David Dechan describes president Salve Kir recent visit to Israel as meant for drawing public attention away from the government failure to handling the state’s affairs. SSDF urges international criminal court probes in cases of human rights violation in southern Sudan and takes wrongdoers who involved in assassinating civilians and politicians to book. SSDF chairman Dechan unveiled that deeper dispute demonstrates the relations between president Salva Kir and his deputy Riak Mashar on background that the first fails to contain security tensions in the south. Dechan describes Kir as dictator ruling the country with a constitution designs to fit one man rule system. He noted that southern political parties have resorted to opposition because SPLM overlooks south – south dialogue recommendations which include a constitutional draft for the whole nation. (DN)

South Sudan Officer Uncovers More Evidence on ROSS Involvement in Supporting Rebels

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:42:00 +0000

Kadugli: Sudan Vision Daily An officer belonging to Republic of South Sudan (ROSS) Defense Ministry affirmed involvement of ROSS in supporting Nuba Mountains' rebels, unveiling involvement of United Nations' agencies and particular voluntary organizations in devoting their potentials to support rebels. Captain Hafiz Hamza Abakar who surrendered to 14 Infantry Division Leadership in Kadugli Monday confessed that his group is responsible for carrying ammunition and some military hardware from South Sudan to Nuba Mountains through Jamajam area locating close to El Obeid Lake. He said that the group working under supervision of Southern Sudanese Brigadier camps in Sarjas in Unity state, explaining that they went on foot from Jarjas to Nuba Mountains because rain makes it difficult to use vehicles. He pointed out that there is another group responsible for supporting Blue Nile rebels. He said that a UN aircraft used to land on El Obeid Lake weekly, adding that it used to bring arms and ammunition in addition to evacuating injured rebels. He added that the aircraft stopped landing when warplanes had intensified flights. He also said that a Kenyan aircraft used to carry military leadership, explaining that it carried Abdelaziz al Hilu many times. Abakar unveiled intensive presence of foreign organizations among the rebels in the Nuba Mountains where European figures conduct regular visits to military areas in order to take photos for sites previously targeted by Sudan Armed Force (SAF) in preparation to fabricating stories on SAF targeting to civilians. He said that the process is an attempt to persuade international community to impose no-fly zone on the region. It is worth noting that Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM)-Nuba Mountains suffer from overwhelming disagreements reflected in the recent uprising against al Hilu when he returned to the Nuba Mountains from Yei with 16 vans to carry elements participating in battles in South Kurdufan. Intervention of UN staff contributed to rescue of al Hilu. A report issued by SPLM-Nuba Mountains unveiled that the Fourth Infantry Division of the movement camping in Bantu suffers from sharp differences as the Commander of the division Colonel Hassan Jaber stated more than once that he is responsible for himself not for the division. The report marked drunk among officers and soldiers of the troop in addition to disobeying the orders of the leadership. (DN)

Interview with Presidential Advisor Dr. Mustafa Osman

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:25:00 +0000

Khartoum Presidential advisor, in charge of foreign relations with the ruling National Congress Party, Dr. Mustafa Ismail has unveiled further details regarding his party’s dialogue with National Umma Party led by Sadiq Al-Mahdi. He considered the offer his party made to the Umma Party as unprecedented; however, such offer didn’t appear to have satisfied the ambitions and aspirations of the Umma Party. Ismail cited a number of reasons that concluded that the Umma party would not participate in next government, and that the two parties agreed to cooperate on national issues related to the constitution and relations with South Sudan, Darfur, South Kordufan and the Blue Nile. The presidential advisor commended the position of the Umma Party on opting for a “responsible opposition”. In an interview with the Arabic Daily Al-Raed, Ismail said “to my mind, a party that opts for opposition within the framework of peaceful power-sharing, respect for the constitution and law, is better than a party that places one man with the government a and another with the opposition.” He affirmed that dialogue with the Democratic Unionist Party – the Original led by Mohamed Osman Al-Merghani would continue, hoping to reach an agreement to involve the party or an agreement similar to that reached with the Umma party. He painted the government expected to be announced in few days as “less in number, highly qualified and more harmonious compared with previous government.” Q: Do think what your dialogue with the Umma was natural? Was that it? A: At latest meeting with our brothers in the Umma Party, we explained to them that it was difficult for us to wait for forming the government any longer because the public opinion is wondering; therefore, it was a must to settle the dialogue related to participation in upcoming government. They were keen to explain that participation in the government was over, but did not closed the door before future dialogue on whether to be involved in the government or not. We agreed that the Umma party would remain in opposition, but a responsible opposition committed to the constitution and law, and peaceful power sharing according to the new name of the game. We also agreed to form mechanism to cooperate on national issues like constitution, establishing a national committee for drafting the constitution and conducting dialogue to arrive at a draft constitution, in addition to dialogue with the newly born state of South Sudan, and on other issues related to Darfur, South Kordufan and the Blue Nile. We agreed to engage in national conferences to address the problem of economy, foreign relations, and other issues requiring a national dialogue to reach a position not only representing the government, but also the opposition and the government alike. Q: How do you describe such conclusion with the Umma Party?A: We deem the conclusion with the Umma party positive because the party has drawn a clear line between national issues and opposing the regime in accordance with the constitution, what is expected on the part of the opposition. We should look at national issues as being above partisan issues. Therefore, we consider the conclusion we reached as positive. Of course, we wished to cajole the Umma party into participation in the government. By the way, we think that we made a reasonable and realistic offer to the Umma Party. We have never made such an offer before. We think the offer would have met the expectations of the Umma Party, but the party begged to differ. We respect their choice. Q: What was the offer?A:The offer – fortunately, the documents that were changed were written document. Making them public needs mutual agreement between the two parties. In our view, what we offered in the name National Congress Party demonstrate our keenness on Sudanese political agreement, unifying the national rank, broadening participation in the government. However, what the Umma party was looking for was way beyond our expectation. Q: Was there anyone regarded the demands were aimed at regime overthrow from within or there were parties within the Umma Party divided over participation?A: There were positions we thought our position on them was right and realistic. I cannot recall their full details now, but can mention some of them like that the Umma party saw that the transitional period should be one year. We proposed the transitional period should be according to what was stipulated in the Interim Constitution or if the political forces agreed to early date after endorsing a permanent constitution because we think the Interim constitution is interim as its name, and that elections were specified in the Interim Constitution in certain dates we cannot overcome such dates and cannot be committed to any other date. If we did not meet such date we would slip into a vacuum. We agreed in principle, if we settled the issue of the interim constitution that would be an important stage for reaching a common ground with political forces to call elections, which reflects that our position was flexible and realistic, knowing that we have no problem if the political forces agree to early elections. On the contrary, we will insist that elections be held on date specified in the Interim Constitution, but should not be before that if the National Congress decided differently or the political forces. That was the bone of contention. We think that the Umma Party could have overcome it because we accepted that if we settled the question of the permanent constitution within six months or a year we could set a date for elections. Q: Were there any other points?A: The other point we differed over was the constitutional terms of reference that would govern the interim period no matter the term of such interim period. The Umma party sees that the interim period should be governed by a constitutional declaration like the presidential decrees that are issued. We thought were not in need of that; because the Umma party as well as all political forces in the theatre now were involved in the present constitution. In my view, the existing constitution is the best. We asked what was wrong with this constitution. The response was that the constitution went through embodies amendments as the result of South Sudan secession. Our view was that we are prepared for amendments if forwarded based on that the constitutions remains the term of reference until a permanent constitution is finalized. The brothers in the Umma party also asked about the agreement that we would agree on through the dialogue, and we told them that such agreements would be included as appendixes in the constitution as integral part of it - in other words - the constitutional terms of reference should be the Interim Constitution and any other agreements reached between us and the Umma Party on one hand, and between us and other political forces, on the other. Q: What does it mean to treat these agreements as the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA)? A: For instance, the CPA, in fact the Umma Party had presented a national program. We began the dialogue according to that program. As the secretary general of the Umma Party noted, actually we agreed 80% on this program as regards the constitution, freedoms, preparing the climate, participation in power, the question of finding out new constitutions to accommodate Darfur. There was also other issue of difference, which was that the Umma Party talked about the status of the commanders of security service, the police and the military and the Judiciary. We agreed that such commanders should not be partisan, but professionals to be formed according to the law, the law of these respective organs. We explained that such commanders are committed to the constitution and the law and affiliated to the political leadership supervising them. For example, the police should be affiliated to the Ministry of Interior, the military should refer to the minister of defense, and the security service should answerable to the presidency and independent judiciary. We said that these organs had their own laws they abide by as they abide the Constitution. The Umma party contended that it wanted these organs to be neutral. We asked, what did neutral mean? We cited that the Umma party in the Third Democracy when the Kokodam group traveled and met in Ethiopia and returned at the behest of the minister of interior, the authorities had detained them although they were not carrying pistols, or pen knives. They were carrying nothing. Also, We the Umma party came to power, it appointed Al-Hadi Bushra as chief of security service. His affiliations with the umma party were known the same applied to the appointment of Fawzi Al-Fadir chief of staff and Mahdi Babo Nimir. All those individuals were known for their loyalty to the m Umma party. Despite all that, we said the leaderships of these organs should not be partisan, but professional committed to their own respective regulations as well as the constitution. I have tried to recall some small details, but will give more details on contentious points in the future. Q: Are there any other opposition parties in the country? Which did you confined your dialogue to solely two parties?A: The dialogue is ongoing between two opposition parties – namely the Democratic Unionist and the Umma Party because the program of other political parties is to overthrow the regime; therefore we have not asked for a dialogue with them. Q: Did the dialogue between you and the Umma kicked off from certain principles?A: The dialogue with the National Umma Party - which I was part of since the onset – commenced with two options: agreement to participate in governing, or involvement in governing via a program to cooperate on national issues. Q: Were you serious to involve the Umma Party?A: ِِThe National Congress was serious to involve the Umma Party to broaden participation in governing to handle national issues to create a national consensus through a government involving biggest bloc of national parties. By the way, the national congress did not vetoed any party willing to participate in the agreed upon national program, despite the mandate the Sudanese people delegated to the party during last elections. Q: Where did your dialogue with the Democratic Unionist Party get?A: The dialogue with the Democratic Unionist Party “the Original” is still underway. We hope it wounds up in participation. If not, it can end up in an agreement similar to what happened with the Umma Party. Q: What the shape of the upcoming government would be in case the Umma and the Democratic Unionist did not get involved?A: In all cases, it would involve the Umma, the Democratic Unionist, Sunna followers, and the Muslim brotherhood, the East Front, the Darfur Justice and Liberation, in addition to others. As for the shape of the government, it would be a government less in number and more harmonious compared with previous governments. We think that the previous which involved the former Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) was very flaccid with more than 70 ministers and state ministers (15-16) advisors under these first strategic economic conditions requires reducing these constitutional constitutions – I mean – an elegant, but highly professional government. Therefore, the intention now is to reduce the number of ministries, to merge some of them and cancel others; to reduce the ministries to required minimum degree as well as the advisors so that this reflects on the establishment of the state’s different institutions in the center and the states. Q: What is your position in the new government?A: I have not been part of the previous government because I was not a member in the cabinet and did not assume any ministry. I was advisor to the President, and assume certain files like the file of east Sudan, investment and follow up in coordination with the ministry, and assignments from brother the President of the Republic. Being an advisor, I don’t expect to be in the upcoming government, but that doesn’t mean that I will not follow up on any file if the President assigns any files on me. Q: Does that mean you will remain advisor to the President?A: It is the President who picks his advisors. Q: Do you think the U.S dollar will keep its stability in Sudan? A: I think the issue of the dollar is of two factors: the first is psychological factor. This factor might have been caused by contradictory statements here and there thus has created panic among citizens. The prove is when the statements were made and the institutions began to meet, the dollar has dropped now because those who bought dollars feared it would die in their hands so they began to sell it, which resulted in decline in the dollar price. The talk that the Sudan Central Bank injected big amounts of dollars reflects the nature of the psychological state. The second factor is the impact of oil revenues in the wake of South Sudan secession on the economy; however, the economists have been working for years in anticipation of the secession. Q: Do you think Sudan’s economy would collapse?A: I totally exclude that Sudan’s economy would collapse, because the Sudanese economy is very promising, and that the program set is this economy will remain affected by this result until 2013. In 2014, the Sudanese economy will start to recover again and the will set things in motion, especially the economy. In fact, Sudan’s economy is suffering just like other economies, but surely it would not collapse. Q: Do think there are hands behind increasing dollar rate?A: I exclude it has been well schemed. I can point fingers at the opposition in a bid to push the public into streets. The opposition is likely to raise the rate of the dollar as increase prices because it serve their interest that citizens live under dire economic conditions (DN)

Malik Agar Admits His Troops Suffer low Moral

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:01:00 +0000

khartoum The defeated Blue Nile rebellion leader Malik Agar was able to defect to Juba recently with some of his loyal troops after were defeated in Kurmuk town by Sudan armed Forces. (smc) learnt that Agar who arrived in Juba on Saturday engaged in intense meetings with SPLA command in the south. The man according to sources was angrily criticizing delaying of juba logistical support the latter has promised him for fighting Sudanese army in Blue Nile. Sources say Agar told SPLA command that he has many injured elements required urgent treatment after the unprecedented defeat Agar’s troops had faced in Kurmuk. Agar according to sources admits that his troops are in low moral particularly the military supplies sent by Juba were less than had been expected. Nevertheless SPLA commanders have promised Agar to send injured elements for urgent treatment in southern Sudan health centers. (DN)

Why Does Sudan Remain in The List of Terror?

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 20:19:00 +0000

By: Dr. Osama Ahmed Idrous Ahmed It is truly amazing how Sudanese-American relations operate in two parallel levels. Over two decades relations between the two countries continue to show great condemnation, animosity and yet high level of cooperation in delicate matters. To quote from Suzanne Golden berg: "Khartoum is probably the only government in the Arab League that has contributed in a major way to the protection of US forces and citizens in Iraq". Nevertheless, since 1993, Sudan annually appears in the United States Department of State list of State Sponsors of Terrorism or Foreign Terrorist Organizations. Presence on the list bars a country from receiving U.S. arms exports, controls sales of items with military and civilian applications, limits U.S. aid and requires Washington to vote against loans to the country from international financial institutions. Definitely, Sudanese-American relations are far more complex than to be analyzed by security cooperation alone. However, the contradictions that these relations show in this field is astonishingly amazing. The Department of State report in 2010 indicates that, “The Sudanese government has taken steps to limit the activities of foreign terrorist groups within Sudan and has worked hard to disrupt foreign fighters’ use of Sudan as a logistics base and transit point for violent extremists going to Iraq” and that “Sudan was generally responsive to the international community’s concerns on terrorism and was generally supportive of international counter terrorism efforts”. Many reports has confirmed that Sudanese government tried repeatedly to turn over Bin Laden to either the Saudis or the U.S.Eventually, Sudan forced Bin Laden to move to Afghanistan in 1996, and offered cooperation on counter-terrorism efforts with the White House and the FBI. Gestures from Khartoum were rebuffed even as it offered its services against an emerging al-Qaida. In 1999, Sudan again signaled its willingness to cooperate with global counter terrorism measures. The Sudan government signed the International Convention for the Suppression of Financing of Terrorism and ratified the International Convention for the Suppression of Terrorist Bombing in 2000. These moves prompted the UN Security Council to lift its terrorism-related sanctions against Khartoum in 2001.Sudan has also worked with neighboring states to combat terrorism in the region. In 2003, it ratified the African Union’s Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism and had signed additional counter terrorism agreements with Algeria, Yemen, and Ethiopia. Only during the year 2000 that the United States and Sudan entered into a counter terrorism dialogue. Sudan was emerging as a surprisingly valuable ally in the global war on terror. Intelligence cooperation has produced significant results ranging from information sharing, suspects detention and interrogation, evidence recovery, to extremists expulsion and disruption of foreign fighters' use of Sudan as a logistics base and transit point. Reports also noted that Sudan took steps to meet international standards in combating money laundering and terrorist financing. A senior State Department official commended that Sudan has "given us specific information that is ... important, functional and current". These efforts have prompted the United States to commend Sudan for its counter terrorism practices. In 2007, the U.S. State Department called Sudan a “strong partner in the War on Terror,” and praised Sudan for aggressively pursuing terrorist operations that threatened U.S. interests. In light of this progress, Sudan has been intensively lobbying the US so it can be removed from the terrorism list. Many officials in the ruling party feel that they alienated their Islamic base by cooperating with Washington in areas like Somalia and Iraq without getting anything in return. The Obama administration announced earlier this year that it initiated the process of delisting Sudan to reward Khartoum for facilitating the South's referendum and later recognizing its results. A key condition for removing Khartoum from the US blacklist is that it does not "directly or indirectly" support terror groups. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, in a separate statement, said that the "Removal of the State Sponsor of Terrorism designation will take place if and when Sudan meets all criteria spelled out in US law," she said. The de-listing process however, appears to have been stalled by reasons other than terrorism support. Strange enough, the US government cited clashes that erupted in South Kordofan between the Sudanese army and Sudan People Liberation Army (SPLA) units as well Khartoum's military takeover of Abyei which is a contested oil-rich region that lies on the North-South borders as an excuse to keep Sudan in the list of condemned. The U.S. special envoy Scott Gration said at a Congress hearing in 2009 that the terrorism designation for Sudan is no longer valid, and called it a "political decision". Many specialists questioned the US government offer to delist Sudan in the first place, stressing that the only legitimate basis for delisting Sudan would be if it has ended its involvement in terrorism, not as a quid pro quo for holding the referendum. Many American journalists wonder whether the US government keep countries on the list because they're genuinely sponsors of terrorism, or because the administration want to punish these governments for other reasons?. This analysis is the tip of the iceberg of contradictions that govern Sudanese-American relations not only in the security field but in other aspects too. A closer reading will reveal that Sudan has fulfilled its political and other obligations, working hard towards achieving peace and stability regionally and within its borders. At the same time, the country faces daily disappointment from broken American promises with regard to support and normalization of relations, especially after American brokered peace deals in Nifasha and Abuja. (DN)

Interview with Sudan Ambassador to South Africa Dr. Ali Yousif Ahmed Alsharif

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:44:00 +0000

MIDRAND, South Africa, (IPS) Sudan and South Sudan Will Resolve Oil Issues Sudan and South Sudan will eventually agree on a reasonable oil-sharing agreement between the two nations as there has been political will from both sides to find a resolution. This is according to Dr. Ali Yousif Ahmed Alsharif, Sudan’s ambassador to South Africa. His comment comes as South Sudanese President Salva Kiir made his first official state visit to Sudan on Oct. 8. Alsharif said that Kiir’s visit is proof that there is now political will from both sides towards reaching an agreement, "and this is an important development." "Ultimately they will agree on a reasonable outcome. Co-operation between the two countries is very important; it is a matter of viability of the two countries. They have to be viable to live together. The south is landlocked and they need the ports of Sudan," Alsharif told IPS. "During the visit they agreed to never resort to war to solve problems and that dialogue would be the basis of a resolution," Alsharif said. Alsharif was attending the Pan-African Parliament, which wrapped up its Fifth Ordinary Session of the Second Parliament in Midrand, South Africa on Friday. IPS spoke to Alsharif about the difficulties facing both Sudan and South Sudan after secession in July and the tensions in the Abyei region. Abeyi remains part of Sudan and could join South Sudan if ethnic groups in the region vote in a referendum to do so. Alsharif explained that the oil-rich Abyei region is populated by the Dinka Ngok tribe, the biggest ethnic group in South Sudan and the Missiriya, a northern nomadic tribe. Q: What challenges do Sudan and South Sudan face after the secession? A: The "divorce" has not been an easy one. In accordance with the comprehensive peace agreement, it was agreed that the Abyei region was to have a referendum to determine the future of the area and whether its residents want to stay in Sudan or if they want to be part of South Sudan. In this referendum it would have been both the (South Sudanese) and (Sudanese) in the area voting. The problem was caused by the refusal of the south to allow the Missiriya tribe to vote. The south said only the Dinka Ngok could vote. The north said otherwise. The tensions are still going on and the referendum is pending. It has resulted in the Sudanese army occupying the area because of attacks from the army of the south. Now there is an agreement for Ethiopian troops, under a United Nations mandate, to replace the Sudanese Army and a joint administration will be formed between Sudan and South Sudan and negotiations will continue. Q: What of the oil-sharing issue between Sudan and South Sudan? A: The oil sharing (agreement) is pending. About 75 percent of the discovered oil is in the south with the rest in the north. The entire oil infrastructure, however, is based in the north. We are now discussing dividing the oil wealth and there is no problem with the share, 75 to 25 percent. The issue is with the pricing. Although the offer to accept the 75 to 25 percent (share) is a little bit unfair for the north. According to international practice, you usually (split the resources) 50 to 50 percent for 10 or 15 years after the split because initially (the previously combined nation) contributed to the set-up costs etc. That is why the north wants to charge more for transport, to replace the loss of income. Q: Some political analysts are saying that

China

, due to its large oil investments in Sudan, is in a position to play a greater diplomatic role in reducing conflict between South Sudan and Sudan. What are your thoughts on this? A: I was the Sudanese ambassador to China in 1993 to 1998 and this was when we started co- operation with them in Sudan. The government in South Sudan of course inherited the agreements that were signed by the government of Sudan at that time. So China is in the south and China is also in the north, and it is in the interests of all three parties to co-operate in a constructive way. In our experience, China has been a very good partner in development and we think they will be a very good element of stability and development between the north and the south. The presence of China in Africa raises the envy and concerns of the West, because they see that China is a stable economy when the economies of Europe and America are in shambles. Q: How would you react to the claim that the conflict affecting the communities along the border states will result in genocide? A: The main reason for the conflict in Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan is that there are many individuals who fought with the southern Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) and its army (Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA)). When the south signed the peace agreement, it had to be decided how they were going to move forward, and how the regions were to be ruled within a united north Sudan. We started to have problems, caused by elements from the SPLA. In Southern Kordofan we had general elections during 2009 and the SPLM disagreed with the census, despite it being declared fair by the international community. Based on a second census, they held elections and the northern-affiliated National Congress Party (NCP) candidate won and the NCP obtained more seats than the SPLM. The SPLM then said the elections were rigged and started the fighting. In the Blue Nile, it was a similar problem with the SPLM faction in the north. So there is no genocide, but it seems that when rebel forces attack and kill it is tolerated, but when government forces act to protect, it is seen (differently). During Kiir’s visit to Khartoum he was requested to refrain from supporting the rebels who fight in the north, no matter what their previous relations were. South Sudan is now a sovereign state and has no right to interfere in the affairs of the north (DN)

SAF Launches Military Parade Force show in BN

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:14:00 +0000

Khartoum: Sudan Armed Forces and other regular forces launched military parade force show marching across the main road in Damazin capital of Blue Nile state. The parade shows diversified heavy weapons at time planes fly over the sky of the town and that thousands of citizens went out lining up by streets cheering military parade and repeated happily enthusiastic songs. Governor of the state Gen Al Hadi Bushra addresses the public rally confirming that SAF and other regular forces control Kurmuk to fulfill President Al Bashir pledge to capturing the town and perform Edeladha prayer there. (DN)

Experts and Specialists Evaluate the New Cabinet Formation

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 18:24:00 +0000

Khartoum On the background of the formation of the Sudan's new cabinet of (35) ministers of state and (42) state ministers (federal), it was natural that a number of old ministers were alienated, while new ones surfaced. Opinions varied on this new cabinet formation, as while some deem it a qualitative and positive sort of transformation in respect of realizing the wishes of the Sudanese people in general and the wishes of the Darfurians in particular, a step has that have much been welcomed and deemed as a support for the Sudan’s national unity, experts see that the new cabinet formation has cut the road short before any predictions pertaining to the Unionist Party’s participation. The Sudanese Media Centre (SMC) –for the purpose of shading more light on the subject, interviewed a number of partisan leaders, academicians and lawyers in order to explore their viewpoint in respect of the new cabinet formation. Mr. Kamal El-Amin, a lawyer, commenced his speech expressing his sadness for the exclusion of Dr. Lam Akol Ajaween from the new cabinet formation, reiterating that such a prominent man could never be disregarded. He further reaffirmed his surprise regarding the absence of Dr. Akol from the new cabinet, resuming that the Ministry of Health had to be handled by a man from the same field (Medicine), expressing his hope that this issue is to be reconsidered in the future. In the same respect, Mr. Abdullah El-Safi El-Fadni said that the most significant as regards this new cabinet is that it pushed forward youth - which is not a curse, though those young ministers are academically less qualified and have no adequate political experience to take such positions as state ministers, particularly in respect of the coming stage of democratic transformation. Such young ministers lack the required charisma for state ministers who represent the top of the pyramid of a certain ministry replete with civil experts who gained their experiences along a period of time as long as the age of those new young ministers, he added. As regards new ministries, it showed up flaccid for a poor country where ministries have to be diminished to only (15). What is the meaning of appointing a minister for media, a minister for culture, a minister for sports and a final one for social affairs?, Mr. Elfadni wondered, reaffirming that all such ministries should be amalgamated in a single ministry, the same when Ali Osman was a minister for social affairs handling all these matters together. The new cabinet formation has, as well, been blamed for partisan balance that gave priority for parties over efficiency. In the same vein, the Eastern Sudan representation was generally so weak. Also, newspapers retold that advisors’ nomination shall come later, a time when the same old faces would possibly be expected to pop up back to Palace, even without a specific job description for their missions. Generally speaking, the new cabinet formation has overlooked the large base of the National Congress as general and the Islamic Movement members in particular in regards to the weak cadres to whom state ministers were assigned whether they were youth or old-aged, according to Elfadni. Concerning the SPLM, it forwarded weak leaders thus demonstrating its renunciation in the effective participation in the new government; added to that list the names nominated in the mass media for the National Assembly positions and committee chairmen, the matter most feared is that the National Assembly would be the weakest parliament ever in the Sudan’s contemporary history, Mr. Elfadni highlighted. SMC also interviewed Mr. Mohamed El-Hassan Awad-Allah, legal advisor at the Faroug Centre for legal studies and consultancies, who said: “the new cabinet formation was expected and never a new one, having the size of alterations very weak comparing to the great event if elections and Sudanese people’s authorization for Mr. President was a great one based on the announced result that gained an international and regional recognition”. “The government formation had to be on the level of that great event and that a very big change should have taken place in respect of including all the sectors of the Sudanese people in the new government formation which has never so predicted; rather, it came very incompliant to the requirements of the coming stage”, he reiterated. As regards the new ministries’ meeting the citizens’ demands, Mr. Awad-Allah believed that the partial change occurred, although so limited, but it is a positive one. He further reiterated that change needs a special care in the coming stage, as well human development. Concerning women’s entitlements in respect of elections, he expressed they were very positive and represent a wide and significant step, having the Elections Act for 2008 stipulates that women shall have the right to occupy 25% of the Parliament seats, contrarily to their participation in the relative lists of political parties and the consequences of such on the cabinet formation and the executive authority in general. It is also observed that the radical change made by the nomination of some young state ministers in the new cabinet formation was not enough as more of the long-employed ones had to leave the chance for other young leaderships in order to ensure a real connection between generations and a virtual representation for the Sudanese people. It was further pointed out that there are advisory councils that could include those who have spent long years in government. The Fur tribe prince Salahuddin Mohamed Elfadl talked to SMC expressing his entire satisfaction towards the new cabinet formation. He believed that it was a very successful nomination for ministers which was conducted based on criteria made every one contented towards the government’s ability to face all the future challenges. He reiterated that all ministers are capable of handling their duties as they are so distinguished and highly qualified for such a mission, observing that it is the first time in Sudan since independence that a Minister of Justice and another of Finance to be nominated from among the Darfur sons. He reaffirmed that the new cabinet formation made greater considerations for the Darfur region, giving the Darfurians a great trust in the government’s seriousness in solving the Darfur question and that Darfur region is a very significant part of the country of which the government is taking a high care. The Sothern politician Mario Atong considered the government as a consecration for the National Congress and the SPLM domination on the ministries, while Southern parties demanding of three ministries given nothing other than a single ministry. He added that this new formation is worse even than that during the days of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). He further noted that Southern parties haven’t been given an opportunity through elections which was counterfeited and not impartially executed in the South. Mr. Atong went on expressing: “we wanted parties to get their chance through ministries in order to be able to effectively provide help in regards to the country’s challenges ahead.” “In this case, we shall have no, or a very tiny, role in solving the Sudan’s problems”, he added, observing that it is unreasonable that there are eight Southern parties in which no even one person to be eligible to take a position in the state ministries pertaining to the new cabinet formation. They ought to let us previously informed and to meet their promises in order not to create such surprises, particularly that the Southern parties are similar to a single entity and making a significant group. This new cabinet formation, thus, maintains the status quo as the same bargains between the National Congress and the SPLM shall persist. (DN)

JEM split Group Renamed Democratic Change Forces

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 19:29:00 +0000

khartoum Justice and Equality Movement group led by movement deputy Mohamed Bahar Ali Hamadain which announced it had breakaway on Tuesday from main stream faction said in a press conference in Doha that it is renamed Democratic Change Forces. Hamadain told AL Shiruoq TV channel the group decides sacking JEM chief Khalil Ibrahim from his position as leader of the movement because the latter hampers launching convention and behaves as dictatorship where he always determines differences from within the movement through physical liquidations. (DN)

SPLM plots to Disturb Peace in Blue Nile State

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 17:02:00 +0000

Sudan Government was much concerned of the future of the people descending from Blue Nile and Nuba Mountains and who are members in Sudan People Liberation Movement. Sudan Government explored many plans to include those people in the various Sudanese regular forces, if South Sudan chooses secession. The concern of the government was to provide solutions for the future of those citizens. The popular consultation went smoothly in the Blue Nile state despite the obstacles created by SPLM. Blue Nile State Legislative Council Chairman has lengthily discussed with SPLM cocas in the council ways to shape the future of these groups and many committees were formed to discuss the issue. The preliminary plans included forming the Joint Integrated Unit (JIU) and the rest of the forces should be withdrawn south the borders of 1956. The two parts have agreed to solve all the remaining issues in the presence of the Blue Nile Governor Malik Agar. However and despite the great efforts, the response of SPLM was very slow. The weak response from SPLM prolonged the mystery of this group future. SPLM reluctant to find a solution for the problem reflects the movement intention to put the issue on hold to be a base for creating future problems. SPLM did not solve this problem to use this group as a pressure card that will create problems in North Sudan. Nuba Mountain and Blue Nile citizen felt that they were abandoned by SPLM. Agar went out of control Sudan People Liberation Movement created SPLM- North that will be headed by Malik Agar and Abd Aziz Al Halo. Sudan Government urged Malik Agar to come to Khartoum to draft plans for the future of SPLM-N but he did not respond. Again the Government asked Malik Agar to come to negotiate with the Government through the African mediator Ambiki but also he did not respond. When Al Hilo ignited the war in South Kordofan the attention was focused on Malik Agar and people wished that he will resort to the voice of wisdom and to let the state enjoy the development programs. However Agar chose the option of the conflict and signed Kawda Agreement with Darfur rebel groups. Agar passive response to the cease fire in South Kordofan was considered as an intention to ignite war in the Blue Nile. Alert state When the SPLM- N plot in South Kordofn failed, Juba pushed Agar to start the second phase of the plot that aims at creating tension in Sudan. When Agar returned from Juba on August 25th, he did not talk tom media and started to prepare for war and started to hold meetings with his commanders in Kormk and Baw. Agar told people in one of AlDamazin neighborhoods that war is inevitable and asked them to be part of his plans. Agar told his supporters that all his efforts to solve their problems with National Congress Party were not successful. Plots SPLM-N imposed curfew in Kor Baw village (south Kormok) to be able to smuggle 25 armed Land Cursers into the state from South Sudan. During festival in Rosisirs Agar called on youth to support his intention to wage war. However youth refused Agar call and refused to participate in any attacks on Sudanese Armed Forces. SPLM-N transported the families of the senior members and relocated them in Angasna to be away from the conflict center and Malik Agar left with his ministers military commanders to Kormak and urged the military regiments to follow him .Authorities now was sure that Malik Agar is going to wage war . At 9 pm SPLM-N launched the attack on SAF check point and after a while started shelling the bases of SAF. The plot of SPLM was built on taking Sudanese Armed Forces by surprise but SAF was ready and spoiled the whole surprise. SAF is now controlling the whole state and is chasing Agar and his forces. (DN)

Abyei Why Things Went Wrong with the International Community

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 22:13:00 +0000

Khartoum:

The situation in Abyei dominated the political movement locally and internationally. Abyei is one of the most important post-referendum issues. According to the comprehensive peace agreement (CPA), which was signed in January 2005 between the Sudan government and the Sudan people's Liberation Movement, the Abyei issue is subject to a special protocol known as the Abyei Protocol which means to resolve the dispute through a referendum to give the citizens a right to choose through a vote to decide where it will be; in the north or south according to the outcome of the vote.
Now everything in the Abyei file has been changed. To know the truth and what is ongoing and what is going to happen in the future we have to understand the constitutional status of Abyei according to the comprehensive peace agreement.
Administratively, Abyei is affiliated to the Presidency rules. SPLM worries, complaints and demands for withdrawal of Sudanese armed forces to evacuate Abyei, the Sudanese government considers the new situation is legal while the United Nations Security Council holds up a carrot for incentives and stipulated normalization of relations with Sudan to the Abyei crisis.
What happened?
Suddenly people listened to the media that more than twenty Sudanese troops were killed in an ambush laid by Sudan People's Liberation Army forces while being accompanied by UN forces out of Abyei.
The Sudanese government informed the United Nations Security Council delegation on Sunday 22 May 2011 that the Sudanese Armed Forces occupied Abyei according to constitutional rights to keep order and provide stability and security to the people in Abyei. Amin Hassan Omer, Minister at the Republican Palace told the UNSC visiting delegation that the Sudanese Armed Forces performed its duty to keep order in Abyei besides its responsibility for protecting everyone in the Sudan. Omer explained that the police forces which violated the agreement by attacking the Sudanese Armed Forces while withdrawing from Abyei, were not the forces authorized to remain in Abyei. Forces that were responsible of security were the Forces of the Joint Integrated Forces (JIUs).
Amin declared that the Sudanese armed forces will remain in Abyei till a new agreement to restore peace and stability is in force. The government announced that the reason behind the evacuation of the police forces affiliated to SPLM is the irresponsible behavior towards the SAF and UNMIS forces escorting the Sudanese forces out of Abyei area.
Reactions
The events in Abyei coexisted with the trip of the UNSC visiting delegation to Sudan to see the preparation for the secession and post referendum issues. Politicians in the Sudan say the UNSC deals with Sudan through double standards. It condemned the SAF takeover of Abyei without putting the blame squarely on the SPLA forces in Abyei.
Spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Khalid Musa confirmed the stability of humanitarian situation in Abyei; "We do our best in Abyei according to our free will", said Khalid.
As regards to the normalization of Sudanese American relations and its impact on the Abyei issue, Musa stated that we do not run towards America and we do not pay consideration to American carrot of incentives or stick of sanctions.
The future of Abyei
The Sudanese government affirmed that it does not believe in unilateral solution to the Abyei issue. Undersecretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Rahamtallah Mohamed Osman cited that discussion over Abyei between the Sudanese government and the African Union started last Wednesday to review the possibility of finding a new effective mechanism acceptable to all parties.
Osman reiterated that SAF will remain in Abyei till the two parties come to a joint vision to the crisis.
But the President of the Government of South Sudan Salva Kiir announced that no negotiations unless the SAF withdraw from Abyei. Of course the best solution to this crisis is to respect the CPA and its protocols.

(DN)

SAF Announce commitment to protect Humanitarian Relief to Abyei

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Sun, 29 May 2011 06:23:00 +0000

Khartoum:

Sudan Armed Forces gave assurances addressed to Missirieya, Dinka Nock and other tribes living in Abyei that they can conduct their life normally after they said security becomes fully controlled in the area. SAF spokesman colonel AL Sawarmi Khalid Saad said in statement released on Friday of which (smc) has obtained a copy that military combats in Abyei were over and the area is opened for all tribes to return and do business affairs normally. Moreover the statement reassures that SAF is on alert to protect relief operations delivered into the area by national, foreign NGOS and countries having desire to provide assistance to the people in Abyei.
(DN)

Comprehensive Peace Partners to Resume Negotiations on Security File on Sunday

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Wed, 25 May 2011 22:07:00 +0000

Khartoum:SUNA

The Information Secretary at the National Congress, Prof. Ibrahim Ghandour, announced that the joint committee of the two partners would meet next Sunday to resume talks on the file of the security arrangements.
He said in a press statement Tuesday that the dialogue between the two partners did not stop during the recent incidents at Abyei area. Prof. Ghandour said that the chairman of the African Union Panel on Sudan, Thabo Mbeki, would return early next June, stating that Mbeki did not present particular suggestion during his recent visit.
He said that Mbeki is focusing up to now on improvement of the atmosphere for holding the negotiations toward achieving satisfactory solutions for the pending issues.
He ruled out existence of any dialogue currently about withdrawal of the Armed Forces from Abyei, referring to consultations taking place through mediators to achieve a final political solution.
Prof. Ghandour called on the US administration not to link its relations with Sudan to violations done by Sudan People's Liberation Army if it endeavours to achieve success concerning Sudan peace file

(DN)

Darfur Referendum is Part of DPA Obligation

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Tue, 24 May 2011 22:41:00 +0000

Khartoum:

There is an obligation to hold a referendum in Darfur as stipulated in the Darfur Peace Agreement (DPA) scheduled for April 2011.
According to the Agreement, a referendum should be held for the region within a period not exceeding 12 months after the general elections to determine the administrative status of Darfur whether to have additional states or to maintain the present three states.
Late in March President Al Bashir has decreed holding the referendum despite controversy over the step.
Hassan Mohamed Ahmed, the Secretary General of South Darfur Parliamentarian Members said that Darfur referendum – despite signatory movements- is a reality, but now the region is going through extraordinary conditions due to civil war over lack of development.
He affirmed the referendum is part of obligations provided in the DPA signed between the government and rebel Sudan Liberation Movement led by Mini Minawi in the Nigerian capital of Abuja in 2006.
Now, the main signatory movement has pulled out of the agreement but that does not mean by any means that the referendum should be called off because it is binding on all parties to the agreement. Therefore, for one party to renege on the agreement is a personal decision that has nothing to do with the stipulations of the peace deal.
The living conditions in Darfur will prompt the people of the region to welcome the referendum because they are aspiring tangible services manifested in developmental projects, especially construction of El Engaz Al Gharbi highway, drinking water, electricity, security, compensations, voluntary return, and on top of that, a new government to see to it that such aspirations and projects are implemented.
Hasabo Mohamed Abdurrahman, head of Darfur MPs, said that the sons of Darfur would hold Darfur-Darfur dialogue at various stages to take on board the opinion of the silent majority who are taking up arms from within for building peace boosting social relations and native administration. He urged the government to focus efforts on the DDD.
The commissioner of Shieiriya, Sidiq Abdunabi said the people of Darfur have the right to the referendum as stipulated in the Darfur peace agreement where they will have to decide whether a unified region or not. He pointed out that the rebel armed movements are not concerned with the referendum and that their rejection is useless. “The time is now ripe for holding the referendum to end harassments and bargaining the people of the region have been going through,” Abdunabi said, adding therefore it has to be accelerated and the government should be committed to the final outcome. He said that claims saying that the time is inopportune for hold such referendum are untrue, adding the return of a considerable number of IDPs to their former homes refutes those allegations. The returnee villages are secure and stable now with necessary services, namely the villages of Shataya and Yasin. “In my opinion, the voluntary return doesn’t require financial temptations but rather it requires peace across the region,” Abdunabi said.
Ahmed Yagoub, a citizen, said the decision to hold a referendum in Darfur is necessary, especially with the people’s struggle for development projects and their implementation by the government. Such a decision is perceived as a serious step toward implementing the Abuja agreement to bring about peace, but it comes at a time Sudan is going through special transformation, especially after formal declaration of the South Sudan state on July 9, while the Darfur referendum is to follow shortly few months after said declaration of independent entity in south Sudan, thus arousing wide spread controversy about the need for holding the referendum and that whether it will be an asset or at the expense of efforts to resolving the ongoing armed conflict in the region since 2003. Moreover, holding the referendum in such a short period is regarded as the choice of the people of Darfur to decide whether they want one region or several states.
Mr. Yagoub said the scenario started to recur, adding that had it not been stipulated in the agreement there would have been no need for referendum because the country is not in need of further fragmentations but rather it is crying for unity and development of infrastructures because such polling distract the people from development. “I think it is all about hidden agenda seeking to disunite nation as the case in southern Sudan,” He said. Yagoub wishes that all parties would lay aside their differences to reach a radical solution without resorting to the referendum in question.
“As observers of the situation in Darfur, I believe the call for a referendum at this stage is a waste of time because it may not help finalize the peaceful process, rather it will further cause political tensions between the government and rebel movements,” Mahjoub Hassoon, a political analyst said.
“What will this referendum bring to the people of Darfur, especially, the IDPs, widows and refugees?” Hassoon argued that holding referendum in Darfur might end up in the secession of the region. He cited the example of southern Sudan.
Instead, he urged the government to dedicate all the money allocated for the referendum to development projects, supporting the IDPs and building schools; besides staying the course of negotiations in the Qatari capital, Doha.
Earlier, the president of the Republic had expressed his resolve to settle the conflict in the region and that the state would spare no effort to finalize peace in the region through Doha negotiations.
Ghazi Salahudin, in charge of the Darfur Dossier, said rejection of holding the referendum in Darfur was groundless and illogic because it is stipulated in the peace agreement and does not conflict with ongoing peace negotiations in Doha, and that the president has the right to give up part of his people in any decisive issue.
Salahudin said the rebel movement’s rejection of the referendum is meaningless while they are holding up arms against the government; therefore, they are not concerned with it, arguing it is a democratic procedure.
Regarding the Darfur-Darfur Dialogue, Salahudin said such dialogue is backed former president of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki, mandated by the African Union with the support of the head of United Nations/African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID). He further affirmed the government supports this dialogue and will help all parties concerned make it a success.

(DN)

UN Security Council calls for peaceful resolution on Abyei issue

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Tue, 24 May 2011 22:26:00 +0000

Khartoum: SUNA

UN Security Council delegation currently visiting Sudan on Sunday issued press statement expressing concern about the situations in Abyei.
The statement has condemned all types of violence in the area and called on all the parties to resolve all Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) and post CPA issues peacefully.
The statement has also condemned attack by the Sudan People Liberation Movement against UN mission in Sudan scoring the Sudanese Army.
"The attack was not only a serious breach of the agreements between the parties, but also a criminal action against United Nations mission and its personnel" read the statement.
The statement moreover, has urged Sudan government to stop military operations and pull out of the area immediately.
Members of the Security Council urged the two parties to refrain from the use of force and stick to Kadugli Agreement.
The statement underscored responsibility of the two parties to protect civilians and respect the mandate of UNMIS

(DN)

Defense Minister: Army will Stay in Abyei until new arrangements are Carried out

noreply@blogger.com (Awad-Allah Ballah Musa Ali) — Tue, 24 May 2011 19:07:00 +0000

Khartoum SUNA

The Parliament Monday has unanimously supported the stay of the Armed Forces in Abyei town until further arrangements are carried out through political understanding.
The parliament, Chaired by its Speaker Ahmed Ibrahim Al-Taher, Monday described as legal the controlling of Abyei town by the army according to the provisions of the Constitution and the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA).
The Parliament further approved a statement presented by the Minister of Defense, Lt. Gen. Abdul Rahim Mohammed Hussein, on the incidents of Abyei, and considered the Armed Forces as responsible for preventing the holding of weapons without license in Kordofan and Blue Nile areas, reiterating that presence of elements of the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) in these two areas as categorically illegal.
Addressing the Assembly Monday, Lt. Gen. Hussein revealed a plan by the SPLA to annex Abyei area to the South by force, explaining that the SPLM is working unilaterally in this issue and has included Abyei in the new constitution of South Sudan and has been maintaining the area under its control.
The Minister explained that the army will stay in Abyei in order to maintain the security and stability until a political decision is taken in this connection, underlining that the articles of the CPA stipulate that the Armed Forces are responsible for the area north to Bahr Al-Arab.
"Abyei will remain a northern town until the population decides on their situation by themselves" said the Minister.
The Minister, further, stressed the need for a new agreements on Abyei based on Abyei Protocol and Kadugli Agreement, assuring that the Army will stay in the area to maintain the safety of the citizens and the international forces until an investigation on the SPLA's repeated aggressions is carried out.
The Minister explained that the Armed Forces have been practicing self-restraint in the face of the repeated violations of the SPLA, saying that the UN and AU do witness on that.
In this regard, the Minister described as treason and betrayal the aggressions by the SPLA, revealing that some 22 elements were martyred and 100 others were missing as a result of the recent aggression.
The Minister reviewed in details the SPLM/A behaviour in the area and its violations to the Protocol on Abyei since 2005, saying that it has been targeting Misseriya tribe in the area

(DN)