JEM rebels slam Gambari’s statement on Darfur peace process

October 20, 2011 (KHARTOUM) — The rebel Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) slammed a communique released yesterday by the head of the joint peacekeeping mission (UNAMID) saying it does not reflect the position of the international envoys meeting on Darfur peace process.

UNAMID chief Gambari Ibrahim Gambari, released a statement on Wednesday, calling on the rebel groups to join the Doha Darfur peace Document (DDPD). He further underlined that the envoys noted the need for “targeted measures” against the non-signatory rebels.

The 14 international envoys meeting which took place in El-Geneina, capital of West Darfur yesterday, did not yet release a joint statement on the conclusions of their Fourth Retreat.

“It is our understanding that the reported Communique was not final and doesn’t necessarily reflect the view of the envoys who participated at El-Geniana retreat,” said Ahmed Hussein Adam; JEM’s Chairman Advisor on Foreign Affairs.

Gambari’s communique was seen as expressing his positions more than reflecting a general consensus reached in the one-day meeting. Different Western diplomats said under cover of anonymity that they are still discussing a draft statement.

“JEM, therefore, will reserve commenting on the communique until such time as the final authorised communique is released,” Ahmed further emphasised.

The international envoys discussed ways to support the ongoing efforts to achieve a comprehensive peace in Darfur after the signing of the DDPD between the government and the former rebel Liberation and Equality Movement on 14 July (LJM).

JEM official however stressed they “continue to appreciate the support of the international community and all their efforts to reach a lasting and suitable solution to the conflict in Sudan.”

(ST)