Chad again seeks to narrow differences between Sudan and JEM

March 15, 2010 (KHARTOUM) – Sudanese government and rebel Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) are holding talks in the Chadian capital Ndjamena as their delegations in Doha failed to progress and still discussing the agenda of negotiations.

The government and the rebel JEM signed in Doha on February 23 a framework agreement negotiated secretly in Ndjamena; but they failed to begin the negotiations and materialize this accord before March 15, as agreed in the deal.

JEM delegation in Doha was steadily objecting to include other rebel factions or to hold separate talks with them insisting they should reunite with them. In addition, the rebels say there will be no peace agreement unless Khartoum delays April elections.

The new round of talks in Ndjamena is mediated by the Chadian foreign minister Moussa Al-Faki who seeks to coordinate with the Joint Chief Mediator in Doha. Chad seemingly very interested to see the two parties reaching a peace deal, as this will allow Deby to stage political reforms ahead of November legislative election which will be followed by April 2011 presidential polls.

Jibril Ibrahim, leading rebel official and brother of JEM chairman, headed from Doha to the Chadian capital to join the other negotiating team of the rebel group.

But the Chadian efforts to push for a breakthrough are also deadlocked.

The discussions include elections, power and wealth sharing and security arrangements, land ownership and compensations. The arrival on Sunday of Sudanese presidential adviser Ghazi Salah Al-Deen to Ndjamena had been expected to boost the talks, as JEM refused the positions offered by Khartoum.

Some sources say Sudanese government offered the post of presidential “assistant”, while others speak about “adviser”; two ministerial posts in the national government and some positions in Darfur region, some sources say it include governors positions other say no.

The most important that JEM rejects the offer made by Khartoum and the Chadian officials seek to forces the two parties to reach a compromise.

There is also difference on the security arrangements.

The rebel officials are seemingly exceeded by the situation but seek to find the best ways to stop the talks with Khartoum and keep good relations with Qatar and Chad.

In Doha, the other rebel group, Liberation and Justice Movement (LJM), is preparing to sign a framework agreement with Khartoum on Thursday 18 March. The signing will be followed by direct peace talks as the two parties are preparing to start.

(ST)