Darfuri activist and blogger Tajeldin Ahmed Arja was arrested on Tuesday after openly criticising the Presidents of Sudan and Chad, holding them responsible for the war and killings in Darfur. During a meeting with other Darfuri leaders gathered in the Friendship Hall, the young activist sharply put the blame on President Omar Al Bashir of Sudan and his counterpart from Chad, Idris Deby. The meeting was organised to bolster the outcome of the Um Jaras forum on Peace and Security in Darfur during a two-day visit by Deby to Khartoum. Arja asserted that the presidents were “lying about the problems in Darfur” and held them personally responsible for the crisis in the region. President Al Bashir then gave a sign to his security guards, who removed Arja from his seat in full view of the audience. While he was being forced out of the conference hall, the writer made the signs of ‘victory’ with his hands. After facing the criticism, President Deby defended President Al Bashir, saying that he is not responsible of war crimes and atrocities committed in Darfur region. He instead put the blame with the people of Darfur: “The major responsibility of destruction is yours. Do not say that Al Bashir did or the army did. You have started the conflict and you are accountable.” File Photo: Tajeldin Ahmed Arja Related: Chad President concludes two-day visit to Sudan (24 December 2013) Sudanese Justice Minister defends Um Jaras Forum (27 November 2013) Chad President ‘interfering in Sudanese affairs’: Rebels (4 November 2013) Non-signatory armed movements may join Darfur peace process: Sese (1 November 2013)