JEM will not negotiate with government

The Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) has rejected an invitation by President Omar al Bashir to put down their weapons and open dialogue with the government, following the assassination of JEM leader Khalil Ibrahim. Speaking to Radio Dabanga Ahmed Tugod Lisan, secretary of peace and negotiation for JEM said that the assassination of Khalil Ibrahim locked the door to any negotiation. He said the assassination has only strengthened JEM’s resolve to overthrow the government by any means. Lisan stressed that Al Bashir’s conduct and the introduction of political assassinations into the Sudanese discourse means the government will have to bear the consequences of this behaviour. On the eve of the anniversary of the independence of Sudan, President Omar Al Bashir called in his speech for JEM to open negotiations.  He warned armed movements that they are not stronger than the state and said that JEM’s leader was punished for refusing to abide by a peaceful solution. Al Bashir said ‘the door is open for any group inclined towards peace.’