SLM’s Nur says no need to sign new deal to stop Darfur insecurity

April 20, 2008 (PARIS) — SLM leader Abdel-Wahid al-Nur welcomed efforts exerted by Darfur peace mediators to stop escalation of violence and attacks against civilians in the troubled region. However, he stressed that no need to sign further document to stop insecurity.

At the end of their fifth visit to Sudan, Darfur peace envoys Jan Eliasson, of the UN, and Salim Ahmed Salim, of the African Union told reporters in Khartoum yesterday on April 19 that warrant parties are willing discuss security arrangements.

Abdel-Wahid al-Nur told Sudan Tribune that there is no need to hold new talks on security arrangements because the signed ceasefire deals and the UN Security Council resolution on the matter are quiet enough.

He underscored the need to implement it and not to sign new document.

“What we need is coordination meetings between the parties and the hybrid peacekeeping force to enforce these agreements and resolutions” al-Nur said.

The rebel leader said that international community should point that the attacks against civilians, the war crimes, and all the human rights breaches are the deed of the Sudanese army and the affiliated militias.

Abdel-Wahid refused to take part in different consultations organised by the mediators and to participate in Sirte peace talks last October. He asks to provide security to the civilians, to disarm Janjaweed militia, and to remove newly settled tribes in the region.

He said that the security issue is vital for Darfur people and the peace process. We demand since long time security before talks. So we have nothing against it but it is a question of approach, he stressed.

(ST)