Disputed Abyei region remains obstacle in peace talks: SMC

KHARTOUM, March 16, 2004 (Sudan Tribune) — The Sudanese peace talks entered an impasse due to the failure by both sides, the government and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement, (SPLM) to agree on a compromise over the disputed Abyei region.

According to the Sudanese Media Centre, the two parties reiterated their stands regarding Abyei, adding that they have not changed, when negotiations between the First Vice-President Ali Osman Mohamed Taha and SPLM leader John Garang resumed yesterday in Naivasha, Kenya.

The negotiations had adjourned for five days to allow the two leaders to consult their respective camps concerning the region. The Sudanese government said the SPLM’s decision to stick to its stand takes them back to square one, which is one of war. For it part, the SPLM considers compromising on Abyei to be suicide.