Abyei demands self-rule as Sudan conflict stalls referendum

October 28, 2024 (ABYEI) – Leaders of the Dinka Ngok in Abyei are demanding self-governance as the ongoing conflict in Sudan dashes hopes for a referendum to determine the disputed region’s future.

In a memorandum to the UN peacekeeping force in Abyei (UNISFA), the Dinka Ngok, who are the main inhabitants of the region, called for international support for self-rule during an interim period until Sudan and South Sudan can agree on Abyei’s final status.

The 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement granted Abyei special status and promised a referendum to decide whether it would join Sudan or South Sudan. However, the vote has been repeatedly delayed due to disagreements over voter eligibility, primarily the participation of the nomadic Misseriya tribe.

“It became increasingly clear that Sudan is resisting the loss of Abyei, and that South Sudan…lacks the capacity or the will to go to war with Sudan over Abyei,” the memorandum states.

With Sudan engulfed in conflict and South Sudan hesitant to act unilaterally, the Dinka Ngok see little chance of a resolution in the near future. They warn that Abyei, already “ravaged by decades of violence,” risks becoming a battleground.

The memorandum highlights the “critical situation of statelessness” faced by the people of Abyei, who lack the protection and assistance of a recognized state. It asserts their right to self-governance as stipulated in the 2005 peace agreement.

That agreement originally allowed Abyei residents to hold dual citizenship in Sudan and South Sudan, but with South Sudan’s secession and subsequent administrative changes, this arrangement has become void.

The Dinka Ngok leaders now demand recognition of their right to self-governance and dual citizenship to break the deadlock and maintain peaceful relations with both countries.