VIOLENCE CONTINUES IN SPITE OF PEACE DEAL

Although the Darfur Peace Agreement went into effect on May 8, 2006, the ceasefire was violated just a few days later by Janjaweed militia. They attacked a truck on its way from a village, killing one woman, wounding 6 villagers and raping 15 women. In addition, the raiders looted goods belonging to the Darfurians, which included sacks of millet, cows and goats.

This incident is a clear indicator that the work in Darfur is far from over. One of the key components of the peace deal is for the government of Sudan to disarm the Janjaweed — the genocidal militias involved in the atrocities in Darfur. This is essential to end the violence in Darfur.

It is crucial for the international community to ensure the Sudanese government does not walk way from the agreement. This responsibility must be shared by the United States, European Union, African Union and leaders from the Arab and Muslim world. While the peace agreement is a significant step forward, critical work remains ahead.

The international community also needs to provide financial and diplomatic support to ensure the safe return of millions of displaced people & make sure the situation in Darfur does not deteriorate further. As President Obasanjo aptly said, "Unless the right spirit, unless the right attitude and right disposition is there, this document is not worth the paper it is signed on.”

+ DARFUR RESOURCE CENTER
 

Updated May 16, 2006