SPLM-N accuses Sudanese army of breaching truce in S. Kordofan

September 9, 2016 (KHARTOUM) – The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement – North (SPLM-N) Friday accused the Sudanese army of violating a cessation of hostilities in South Kordofan state, pointing it was not the first time.

Last June, Sudanese government declared a four-month unilateral cessation of hostilities, in support of the efforts of an African Union mediation to persuade the opposition groups to sign a roadmap for peace in Sudan.

Also, in April 2016 the SPLM-N announced a six-month unilateral truce.

For five consecutive days, the government forces launched a long-range artillery shelling on civilians in the SPLM controlled areas in South Kordofan”s Um Dorain county, in Um Sirdiba, Alnagra, Kaen, Tblo Allbo areas, as well as Um Dorain town,” said SPLM-N spokesperson Arnu Ngulutu Lodi in a statement extended to Sudan Tribune on Friday.

He further said the shelling killed Akoloma krends, 48- year old woman, and destroyed the house of another female Kaka Hassan Jelborha. Also as result of the artillery attack hundreds of civilians fled their areas and stopped their agricultural activities.

The rebel spokesperson further renewed the SPLM-N commitment to the truce and claimed that it was not the first time the Sudanese army violates the cessation of hostilities.

The warring parties are expected to meet this month for talks on a cessation of hostilities and humanitarian access agreements.

The Sudanese army spokesperson was not reachable for comment

(ST)