Sudanese president calls for restraint

KHARTOUM, Aug 3, 2005 (Sudan Tribune) — Sudanese President Omar Hassan Al-Beshir has issued a decree setting up a joint committee with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) to investigate and explore the circumstances and conditions surrounding the plane crash which killed Dr John Garang De Mabior.

In a statement broadcast by Sudan TV today, Bashir also said he had set up a committee to assess the damages as a result of the riots in Khartoum and other towns following the announcement of Garang’s death, and ordered state governors to take security and administrative measures that would safeguard the life and property of the citizens.

“How many times have we been hit by a terrifying shock but have weathered it, managed it and overcame its miseries by confronting it with full certitude, patience and forgiveness; being an example to people – where they have identified with this kind of quality and capability to overcome pain, and march on to tomorrow with firmness, patience and conviction”.

He said, “We reiterate our determination to all the Sudanese people and confirm our commitment to pursue at length until peace is realized fully and comprehensively, God willing”.

He called for patience, vigilance and restraint saying, “Sweep aside every evil with the waters of wisdom and forgiveness”.

Material provided by the BBc Monitoring Service.