Darfur hold-out rebel group to join peace process

Commander Mustafa Tambour of the mainstream Sudan Liberation Movement faction led by Abdelwahid El Nur (SLM-AW) arrived in Khartoum on Saturday to meet Suleiman El Debello, chairman of the Sudanese Peace Council.

The meeting was brokered by the South Sudanese mediator Tut Galuak. Tambour flew to Khartoum from Juba.

In a statement upon arrival in Khartoum, Tambour lauded “the martyrs of the glorious December revolution” for removing the former regime and contributing to the peace process.

He pointed out that SLM-AW has negotiated in Juba for the past 60 days. Tambour stated that “the reasons for the continuation of war have now ended forever”, and stressed that SLM-AW was ready to “build the new Sudan to achieve development with the peace partners”.

A safe return of the displaced to their homes and justice for the victims of human rights violations are top priorities for the armed rebel movement.

SLM-MM

The Sudan Liberation Movement led by Minni Minawi (SLM-MM) criticised “the failure to implement most of the provisions of the Juba Peace Agreement”. He pointed out that the federal government conference, which was to be organised, has not been held so far. Also, the implementation of the security arrangements has been delayed.

The official spokesperson for the SLM-MM, Sadig El Nour, denounced what he described as “adhering to individual ruling at the expense of institutions”. He said that “the old approach still dominates the scene”. El Nour affirmed that SLM-MM  adheres to the Juba Peace Agreement and seeks a direct dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues.