JEM rebels accuse Sudan army of preparing new attacks

February 11, 2009 (DOHA) — The Justice and Equality Movement accused Sudanese troops of advancing toward its positions in eastern Jebal Marra, West Darfur, saying such move could hamper the engaged peace process.

The Sudanese government and JEM rebels are discussing a framework agreement in order to negotiate a peace agreement in the Qatari capital. The discussed measures include a ceasefire during the political process.

JEM spokesperson stated from Doha that the Sudan Armed Forces are moving in direction of their positions in Western Darfur. He said they informed the mediators about the intention of the movement.

“They are now at three kilometers from our troops” he said.

The rebel official added “this move shows how much Khartoum is not serious about peace.”

During Abuja peace talks (2004-2006), the rebels blamed the Sudanese army of attacking their position while they negotiate with the government in clear violation of a ceasefire agreement signed in 2004.

Amin Hassan Omer, a state minister for culture and member of the government delegation minimized JEM accusations saying there is no signed truce yet.

(ST)