Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Khartoum (Fides Service)- There is new hope for peace in the martyred western Sudan region of Darfur after Khartoum agreed yesterday 15 December to cease military operations in the region, paving the way for a resuming of negotiations in Abuja, capital of Nigeria. Two days ago the rebels withdrew from the talks on the grounds that the army and its militia allies had continued military operations despite the declared cease fire agreement.
However the delegates agreed to remain in Abuja to carry on informal talks to try to break the deadlock. But the situation on the field will have to be verified.
The humanitarian situation in Darfur is still serious also because the UN and other agencies have been forced suspend aid to southern Darfur because of a total lack of security. Two days ago two Sudanese aid workers, members of the British Save the Children agency travelling in an easily identifiable well marked van, were shot dead.
While rebels accuse Khartoum of planning a major offensive (which for observers is highly unlikely although the government is about to extend the state of emergency which should expire at the end of this year), international organisations say the cease fire declared in April is being violated by all forces, and more obviously since November, and that it only exists on paper.
There is a ray of hope then for negotiations as the 23 December deadline for reaching an agreement set by the mediator African Union approaches.
According to figures accepted by the International Community, since the insurrection in Darfur began in February 2003 at least 100,000 people have been killed and 1.5 others have been displaced and now live in extremely precarious conditions in camps in Darfur and neighbouring Chad. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 16/12/2004 righe 29 parole 351)
