AU holds SLA responsible of attacks, expresses support to AMIS staff

Oct 9, 2005 (ADDIS ABABA) — Further to the press release issued today 9th October 2005, by the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the Commission in the Sudan, on the killing of three members of the Nigerian contingent serving with AMIS in Sector 2, Nyala, and two civilian drivers who were employees of an AMIS contractor, PAE, the Chairperson of the Commission expresses his utter indignation at the killings and at the turn of events in Darfur in the last few weeks. He also received , with grave concern, the report of the abduction of eighteen AMIS personnel in Sector 5, Tine, by elements controlled by one, Mohammed Saleh.

He unreservedly condemns the killings and holds the SLA responsible for this wicked and atrocious act. He also demands the immediate release of all abducted AMIS personnel. The Chairperson stresses the determination of the AU Commission, in conformity with previous decisions, to bring to the attention of the AU Peace and Security Council and United Nations Security Council, this incident and other previous incidents, as well as the deteriorating security situation in Darfur, for their deliberation and appropriate action.

Furthermore, he reiterates his appeal to the Government of the Sudan (GoS) to cooperate fully with AMIS, particularly as it concerns the deployment of equipment necessary to enhance the effectiveness of the Mission. In this regard, he calls on the GoS to expedite action on the issuance of diplomatic clearance for the deployment of all of the 105 Armored Personnel Carriers, necessary for the protection of AMIS personnel and the civilian population in Darfur.

The Chairperson urges all the parties to fully respect their commitments under the N’Djamena Ceasefire Agreement and subsequent agreements, and avoid acts that could undermine the AU efforts in Darfur.

In view of the recurring incidents of attack on AMIS personnel and the seriousness of the matter, the Chairperson has decided to dispatch a high level team to Darfur, to provide support to AMIS leadership and the entire personnel of AMIS, and hold discussions to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in future. The Chairperson further expresses his deep sorrow and condolences to the families of the bereaved, the respective Governments of the late soldiers and the PAE for this loss.

The Chairperson reaffirms his full support to, and confidence in, the AMIS leadership, as well as, the entire AMIS personnel for their tireless efforts and dedication to the cause of peace in Darfur.