LJM’s Abu Garda to participate in Sudan elections

February 1, 2015 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s electoral body has accepted the participation of the Liberation and Justice Movement (LJM) led by Bahar Abu Garda in April elections, exempting it from holding a general convention as stipulated by law.

The former rebel group with the same name (LJM) split into two groups following accusations related to implementation of the Doha Document for Peace in Darfur (DDPD) and lack of transparency in the management of recovery projects.

The LJM secretary-general, Abu Garda, registered a new political party using the old name of the group, while the leader of the former rebel movement, Tijani al-Sissi, registered his party with name of National Liberation and Justice Movement (NLJM).

A member of the National Election Commission (NEC), al-Hadi Mohamed -Ahmed, announced on Sunday they accept the participation of the LJM even if the new party did not yet hold its general convention.

Mohamed -Ahmed added that NEC’s decision was based upon a letter from the council of political parties informing them of the acceptance of LJM’s participation in the general elections scheduled for April 2015.

Abu Garda who is expected to limit his participation in Darfur electoral constituencies said in statement published in Khartoum on Sunday they have ten candidates for the national parliament and two others for the state’s legislative assemblies.

Al-Sissi said his party signed a partnership with the ruling National Congress Party adding that the NLJM will participate in the upcoming elections.

The NLJM is expected to seek the support of traditional leaders particularly those of al-Sissi tribe, the Fur, and the Massalit.

The NCP-led government minimised the split saying it would not affect the DDPD implementation .

(ST)