JEM rebels support peaceful character of Sudan’s protests

June 30, 2012 (KHARTOUM) – Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) announced its support to the peaceful protests in Sudan calling for the downfall of the regime of the National Congress Party (NCP).

What was a protest by universities students in Khartoum against the cut of fuel subsidies has become, day after day, a national movement demanding a regime change in Sudan.

However, the rebel groups who fight the Sudanese army in Darfur and South Kordofan, like the other political groups are forced to determine their position from this popular unrest which is conducted by independent youth groups impacted by the spontaneous character of the Arab Spring.

The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement – North (SPLM-N) and Sudan Liberation Movement of Abdel Wahid (SLM-AW), expressed their support to the protests and denied allegations they were behind the move in order to attack the capital.

Gibreel Adam Bilal, JEM official spokesperson, on Saturday reaffirmed in a statement to Sudan Tribune, that his movement backs the peaceful demonstration in the country.

He expressed the need for a peaceful revolution to achieve all its objectives. He further underscored that they share a common goal with the protestors: “to topple down the regime and building a state based on citizenship, the basis for the rights and duties in Sudan”.

After JEM attack on the Sudanese capital in May 2008, security services said the rebels were planning to loot properties and abduct girls developing anti-JEM resentment.

Gibreel went to warn the security forces to stop using violence against the peaceful demonstrators saying JEM is ready to protect the revolution if the government forces use violent means to quell the protests.

He also demanded the release of protesters detained during the recent demonstrations and called on the regular forces to join the Sudanese people in their struggle against the ruling regime in Khartoum.

(ST)