Tension rises following assassination of Darfur tribal leader

July 1, 2008 (KHARTOUM) — A Darfur tribal leader was fatally shot during clashes that erupted in South Darfur causing fears of further escalation in violence in the region.

Amin Issa Elaiw an official in the government of South Darfur was killed as he was trying to mediate between the tribes of Al-Turgum and Bani-Helba west of Nyala. Clashes broke out between the two tribes killing 10 people and injuring scores.

Eye witnesses said unknown bullets were fired through Elaiw’s chest killing him immediately.

The violence forced Sudanese presidential adviser Nafi Ali Nafi to cancel a previously scheduled visit to inaugurate the National Congress Party (NCP) conference.

The governor of South Darfur Ali Mahmoud announced the cancellation of preparation for the NCP conference and suspension of all governmental activities until order is restored.

Sudanese security forces imposed emergency laws in the area following the incident.

Mahmoud, speaking during Elaiw’s funeral, said that the authorities will “crack down on any attempt to start chaos”. He blamed security services for failing to provide protection to the tribal leader and said that they will be “held accountable”.

The governor also revealed that he received permission from the Sudanese president Omar Hassan Al-Bashir to use the air force to restore order.

Furthermore he refused any proposals to draw land boundaries between the tribes.

Tribal clashes has become more frequent in Darfur despite reconciliation efforts by central and local authorities.

International experts also say more than 300,000 were killed and 2 million have been driven from their homes by the conflict in Darfur, a region that is roughly the size of France.

(ST)