S. Sudan says African Union inquiry found ‘no evidence of genocide’
July 29, 2015 (JUBA) – The South Sudanese government has welcomed and commended the African Union (AU) for releasing a report, which it said found no evidence of genocide committed in the country’s ongoing war and recommended the need for reconciliation.
According to the South Sudanese foreign affairs minister, Benjamin Marial, the AU report found no evidence of genocide, though misunderstanding within the leadership of ruling party (SPLM) over reforms sparked violence and subsequent loss of lives and properties.
“There was no evidence of genocide in the report. It reflected truth and reports about real events. As the government we welcomed it and assure our commitment to fully implement its recommendations, especially on the issues of peace and reconciliation”, Marial told Sudan Tribune Wednesday.
Marial was present at the AU Peace and Security Council meeting as representative of the South Sudanese government during which the report was released by the committee.
“The recommendations of the report are very clear. The outcome made it very clear that what happened in South Sudan was not genocide but it is the responsibility of the African to carry out proper investigation and come out with the findings reflective of their research and investigation”, he said.
OBAMA CALLS FOR END OF WAR
In his speech to the people of African on Tuesday at the headquarters of the African Union on Tuesday, Obama called to end wars in Africa. He mentioned the armed conflicts in Central African Republic, Mali, Sudan and South Sudan.
He further stressed on the urgent need to stop the inter-South Sudanese conflict and to hold account the perpetrators of atrocities in the youngest African nation.
“In South Sudan, the joy of independence has descended into the despair of violence,” he said adding “And neither Mr. Kiir, nor Mr. Machar have shown, so far, any interest in sparing their people from this suffering, or reaching a political solution”.
Obama further disclosed that he agreed with the IGAD and AU leaders that the warring parties must sign a peace agreement by 17 August and warned saying “because if they do not, I believe the international community must raise the costs of intransigence”.
“And the world awaits the report of the AU Commission of Inquiry, because accountability for atrocities must be part of any lasting peace in Africa’s youngest nation,” he stressed.
(ST)