Chief of Abyei Administration and his deputy sworn in

August 31, 2008 (KHARTOUM) — Chief Administrator of the interim Abyei Area Administration and his deputy were sworn in before the Sudanese president Omer Al-Bashir at the Republican Palace today.

Al-Bashir appointed on Friday 8 August, Arop Mayak Monytoch of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) as Chief Administrator of the interim Abyei Area Administration and Rahama Abdel-Rahman Al-Nour of the National Congress Party (NCP) as Deputy Chief Administrator.

Addressing the sworn in ceremony, the Sudanese president called on the two head of the new administration to work as one team to achieve the ambitions and aspirations of the people of the region.

Monytoch asserted that strengthening security and stability, provision of the needs of citizens in addition to reconstruction and resettlement are at the top of the priorities of his administration.

He added that the achievement of these goals depends on concerted efforts and support from all the parties.

On his part, Rahama pointed out that their priorities are provision of security for the citizens, rehabilitation of Abyei besides boosting development and services.

He further added “We will work together with all our strength to perform our national obligations to the citizens of Abyei.”

The row over the definition of Abyei border stalled the implementation of a protocol specific to the area since three years. But the two peace partners reached on June 8 a roadmap to implement the protocol and to end their difference over the conclusions of Abyei Boundary Commission.

In accordance with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, the head of the administration is named by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and his deputy should comes the National Congress Party (NCP). Both ought to be from Abyei natives.

(ST)