AU condemns recent violence in Abyei, urges restraint
October 8, 2022 (ADDIS ABABA) – The African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) has condemned the violent confrontation in the Abyei Area Administration, urging the parties to the conflict to cease hostilities.
The continental body, during it’s 1108th meeting held on September 29 also appealed to the parties to exercise restraint and pursue an amicable resolution of contentious issues.
Leaders of the Dinka Ngok tribe in the disputed area of Abyei between Sudan and South Sudan have called on the government of South Sudan, regional and international community to recognize the result of the unilateral community referendum that was conducted in the area in October 2013.
The AUPSC, during it’s meeting, stressed that dialogue, truth and reconciliation will pave way for healing processes in the whole of Abyei area.
It further commended the Governments of the South Sudan and the Republic of Sudan, for their dedicated efforts aimed at a peaceful resolution of the political and security issues relating to the disputed oil producing region.
South Sudan President Salva Kiir and the head of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, Gen. Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan recently agreed on the formation of a committee to resolve the final status of the Abyei.
The AU welcomed the renewed relationship between the Governments of South Sudan and the Sudan and their commitment towards good neighbourliness, urging both countries to ensure that the remarkable positive relations trickle down to the grassroots to pave the way for a peaceful settlement of all outstanding issues.
The AUPSC also reiterated its appeal to the parties to accelerate the implementation of the Agreement on Temporary Security and Administrative Arrangements for the Abyei Administrative Area, signed on 20 June 2011.
Of particular concern, is stressed, is the finalization of the establishment of the Abyei Area Administration, the Abyei Area Council, and the Abyei Police Service, in order to facilitate the provision of essential services to the Abyei population.
Meanwhile the AUPSC requested the AU Commission to nominate a facilitator for the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee (AJOC) and assist AJOC in carrying out its functions in accordance with the Agreement on the Temporary Arrangements on Security and Administration.