Former Sudan VP Lago calls for dialogue between Sudanese

KHARTOUM, Nov 22, 2004 (SUNA) — [Former Sudan vice president and] former chairman of the Southern Sudan Executive Council, retired General Joseph Lago, has stressed the importance of South-South, North -North, and the South-North dialogue for the implementation of the peace agreement that would be reached between the government of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM).

General Joseph Lago during a press conference at the Sudanese media centre in Khartoum. (photo SMC).

Lago told a press conference organized at the Sudan Media Center (SMC) Monday that his return to the country was aimed at following up the peace process in the country.

He said he has come with some specific ideas about the system of government in the country and the removal of landmines and that he would be discussing those ideas with officials in the government and all other concerned bodies. He revealed that he had established a charity organization for the purpose.

Lago appealed to Sudanese businessmen to provide him assistance to be used for the implementation of the programs of his charity organization, saying there should be no dependence on foreign assistance and backing.

He underlined the necessity of making use of the experience of the Addis Ababa Accords and of avoiding the shortcomings that accompanied the implementation of those accords. He said he was ready to put all his experience and his thoughts for assistance in the implementation of the agreement.

Lago has urged those carrying arms in Darfur to lay down their arms and resort for a dialogued and negotiated settlement for the Darfur question.