Eritrean opposition condemns refugees’ deportation by Sudan
By Tefsa-alem Tekle
September 24, 2008 (ADDIS ABABA) — After Sudanese Authorities deport some 80 Eritrean asylum seekers last week, Addis Ababa based Eritrean opposition, Democratic Movement for the liberation of Eritrean Kunama (DMLEK) condemn the action saying as “irresponsible action”.
Sudanese authorities deported around 80 Eritrean asylum seekers to Eritrea. Sources say Sixty-four of them had gone through refugee screening process few days ago in Shegraib refugee camp and obtained a refugee legal status. Authorities detained the refugees in the last few days while they were entering Khartoum.
Reliable sources say the refugees were deported to Eritrea after being transported from Khartoum to Kassala.
In addition, Sudanese authorities in Ghedarif swept places frequented by Eritreans and deported fourteen asylum seekers to Eritrea. It is feared that Eritreans returned to their country are likely to face risk of torture and other inhumane treatments by the government.
“We condemn deportation measures of such nations while they know how much consequences these citizens could face upon arrival” DMLEK chairman Kernolious Osman told Sudan Tribune.
“Deporting Eritrean asylum seekers not only violate human and international laws on protection of refugees but also is a total wrong measure that puts the safety of the citizens in extreme danger” he said.
There is no any official statement released from Sudanese authorities regarding the latest deportation but there are speculations that say that this measure was taken after Eritrean refugees were reported of illegally leaving their camp and attempting to cross borders of neighboring countries like Egypt and Libya.
“Asylum seekers mustn’t be the victims between the interests of both governments” Kernolious said adding “Even if they are caught in an attempt of crossing borders they must be brought back to their refugee camp, not deported home.”
Thousands of Eritrean refugees, many fleeing mandatory military service intimidation or jail, arrive in Sudan on daily bases.
Eritrean oppositions in exile in the past have repeatedly condemned Eritrean government for cross-border abduction through its agents and loading back home for thousands of Eritreans in Sudan.
Estimations indicate that there are at least 180 thousand Eritrean refugees in Sudan.
(ST)