Sudan rejects “biased” Troika statement on aerial bombardment

May 29, 2016 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan Sunday has criticized a statement by the Troika countries denouncing government aerial bombardment on rebel held areas in South Kordofan state.

In a statement released in Washington, the Sudanese Embassy to the United Sates described the joint statement as “biased” and ” a repetition to negative positions that do not help to bring peace to the people of South Kordofan and Blue Niles states”.

The Torika members, Norway, the United Kingdom and the United, on Saturday condemned the Sudanese government’s aerial bombardment of civilians in Kauda and the Heiban areas of South Kordofan.

The three western countries said they “are appalled” by these attacks, which included the bombing of St Vincent Elementary School on 25 May.

The diplomatic mission reiterated that the government stance is to continue the dialogue process and the talks as a path to realize peace in the Blue Nile and South Kordofan states.

“Despite their support to the Roadmap Agreement, signed by the Sudanese government alone in Addis Ababa last March, the Troika countries do not make any strong move to push these (rebel) movements sign the roadmap,” the embassy added.

The Troika countries applauded the signing of the Roadmap Agreement by the government and said it represents a step forward towards peace in Sudan.

The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement – North (SPLM-N), Justice and Equality Movements (JEM), Sudan Liberation Movement – Minni Minnawi (SLM-MM), and the National Umma Party (NUP) have refused to sign peace plan saying it is not inclusive and disregards other conditions to create a conducive environment for a successful dialogue.

(ST)