Khartoum suspends repatriation of IDPs to South Sudan

By Manyang Mayom

30 May 2008 (RUMBEK) — The representative of chief in Eastern Equatoria State (EES), Ben Maku told Sudan Tribune that the repatriation of Internal Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Khartoum was generally suspended.

There are more difficulties facing the IDPs on their way back home particularly on Abyei roads that Merissiaya tribe blocked last month before SPLA clashes with SAF.

However some of the IDPs resumed traveling by land through Abyei and Western Bahr al- Ghazal state but due to rains and insecurity in Abyei areas it is difficult to transport them” said Ben.

He ensured that the International Organizations for Migrant (IOM), and the organizing committee had stopped the repatriation programme for the time being, due to the heavy rains in Southern Sudan with the hope to resume it after the rainy season.

The organising committee in Khartoum advised the IDPs to continue with the registration within this period of time and to prepare themselves for the next coming trips to Southern Sudan.

Maku added that some of the IDPs who arrived already to their States are facing difficulties there, since some of them are not receiving assistance as it was required. He urged the concerned authority to provide the necessary help to the returnees.

He said the remained IDPs are eager to return home but still some of them fear missing drugs and medications in some parts of Southern Sudan.