SLM Unity demands Darfur talks postponement, will not go to Libya

October 23, 2007 (PARIS) — Another rebel Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) faction requested today the postponement of Darfur peace talks set to begin in Sirte, Libya within four days. The group said would not attend Sirte talks.

The head of the SLM Unity faction, Abdalla Yahya demanded in a statement received by telephone the adjournment of peace negotiations with the Sudanese government. Abdalla said “the moment is not opportune for the talks.”

He further said that rebels’ unity is crucial for successful talks. The rebel leader indicated that rebel groups in Juba are engaged in a reunification process and mediators should delay the forthcoming talks in order to facilitate the ongoing efforts.

He also asserted that the withdrawal of the SPLM from the national unity government jeopardises the talks because “We want the resolution of the current political crisis and see the SPLM involved in the peace process” Yahya said.

The rebel leader concluded that the reunification of the rebel groups and the end of the current political crisis between the NCP and the SPLM over the implementation of the CPA are crucial for the resumption of the talks with Khartoum.

“This is why we want the delay.” He said.

Six other recalcitrant rebel SLM factions under the command of Ahmed Abdelshafi, Ibrahim Ahmed Ibrahim, Jar al-Nabi Abdel Karim and Mohammed Aki Kelai as well as the Northern Command faction said also they would not attend the talks.

However, the SLM/A faction of Khamis Abdallah Bakr said it would attend the Sirte talks.

Nonetheless with the rejection of JEM to attend the talks, the Asmara based Khamis will not be able to end the conflict even if he signs a deal with Khartoum.

All the rebel groups criticized the ill prepared mediation and their exclusion from consultations undertaken in order to prepare the talks. The rebels were angered by the choice of Libya without their accord.

(ST)