New mediator calls for comprehensive ceasefire in Darfur

August 25, 2008 (KHARTOUM) — Darfur joint chief mediator, Djibril Bassolé, called on the government and rebel movements to observe a comprehensive ceasefire in the war-torn region.

The new peace mediator who arrived Monday to Khartoum to begin officially his duties, said it is a necessary step before to start peace process.

“Our concern now is to invite everyone to stop shooting” the joint peace mediator said upon his arrival to Khartoum airport today evening.

Asked about the features of his plan to end Darfur crisis in the coming period, Bassolé said it was too early now to talk about a peace plan.

He stressed he came just to work from within Darfur. Bassolé will be based in El-Fasher, North Darfur state.

He also underlined that a plan of action to achieve peace in Darfur is the responsibility of all the concerned parties as the cooperation of all will ensure the success of his mission

Before his arrival Bassolé met with the three main rebel groups in London, New York and Paris.

(ST)