General commander of rebel JEM forces relieved of his post

June 2, 2007 (LONDON) — The chairman of the Darfur rebel Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) Khalil Ibrahim, has relieved the general commander of the movement’s troops, Abdalla Banda Abbaker of his post.

A decree issued by JEM leader on July 1, didn’t appoint his successor but just mentioned “name of new commander general to follow.

Informed sources explained to Sudan Tribune that JEM forces have simply outgrown the former general commander and the job at hand now requires somebody with more breadth.

Also, Banda level of education also makes it difficult for him operate outside war zones, the sources said.

(ST)