UNAMID warns of military build-up in Darfur

October 19, 2009 (KHARTOUM) – The hybrid peacekeeping mission today warned of military buildup in the restive region of Darfur, expression fears that this may signals impending attack.

“UNAMID personnel in the field have recently observed a sizable and unusual increase in military activities by the Government of Sudan (GoS) and Sudan Liberation Army/Abdul Wahid Faction (SLA/AW) forces, notably in the areas of Sortony and Kabkabiya in North Darfur,” said a statement released today.

The peacekeeping mission as neutral body in the region used to not pinpoint finger to one party but includes the two parties in its statements even if the violation of ceasefire is committed by one of the warring parties in the region.

Sudanese army started since last August targeting positions held by the Sudan Liberation Movement Army led by Abdel Wahid Al-Nur in Jebel Marra mountainous areas particularly in Ain Siro and Korma in North Darfur state.

The attacks on the rebel groups are seen as attempt by the government to put pressure on Al-Nur to participate in Doha peace process that he rejects demanding to disarm militias and to return the displaced population to their villages.

The Paris based leader of the rebel group says military attacks would not force them to join the negotiating table and they are ready to repel the assailants.

In a statement released Monday the peacekeeping mission urged the two parties to refrain from resorting to violence, stressing that dialogue and negotiations remain the only way for a peaceful resolution of the six-year conflict.

“UNAMID wishes to emphasize that armed clashes invariably result in casualties and fatalities among combatants and in dire consequences for the civilian population” the mission added.

UN experts estimate some 300,000 people have died and 2.7 million driven from their homes. Sudan blames the Western media for exaggerating the conflict and puts the death toll at 10,000.

(ST)