Sudan Launches Peace Initiative for Darfur

Amid accusations that the recent initiative that was launched by the ruling National Congress Party is merely window dressing, a conference was held to discuss the implementation and goals of the peace initiative. Various rebel groups and observers did not attend and dismiss the initiative as a means to avoid the arrest of President Bashir. Any effective settlement of the conflict will need to encourage rebel participation. Turabi’s Popular Congress Party also did not attend. The initiative is being supported by the SPLM, however they are divided from within. A few within the SPLM believe that without Bashir there is no guarantee of an implementable peace agreement.

A new round of talks are being set to be held in Qatar.

People of Sudan Lead the Way in Resolving Darfur

The Sudan People’s Initiative has the support of about 33 political parties. It is meant to bring Sudanese and non-Sudanese together to discuss representation and participation of the people, and mechanisms for post-conflict rehabilitation. Djibril Bassole, the AU-UN negotiator Darfur recognizes the initiative as a precursor to the Qatar initiative. Bassole believes that the government’s commitment to the initiative is essential. The Embassy of the Republic of Sudan states that the Initiative should not merely be rejected because it comes from Khartoum and that the rebels’ recent emboldened stance to fiercely boycott these efforts, based not on reading or consideration of the text of the initiative, reveals that it is a reaction to ICC recent actions.

IDPs demand security, Khartoum announces demobilisation

The spokesperson for the IDP’s, Hussein Abu Shariati, has called for disarmament of the pro-government militias and armed groups before peace talks begin. Reports indicate that Khartoum plans to begin DDR (disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration). According to Adriann Verheul, chief of the UN program supporting the government DDR program, this could be the largest DDR operation in the world.

Minawi talks to Asharq Al-Awsat

Mani Arkoi Minawi, a former rebel leader, now the senior assistant to al-Bashir, is participating in the Sudanese People’s Conference. In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, he told the newspaper that he is focusing his concerns on the will to find a solution, the arrival of assistance to the victims and the implementation of regeneration projects. He provides a dismal report on the lack of improvement in agriculture and farming due to the terrible security problems. He states that all the parties have contributed to the instability of the situation for various reasons. He also maintains that development funding through the Arab Development Fund never translated into action. He also asserts that once there is political will for a solution, then he will play a role between armed groups and the government in preparation for reconciliation.

Darfur Violence Displaces 1,000 People a Day, UN Chief States

The UN Secretary General has diagnosed that the quantity of displacements per day in the region of Darfur is too high and therefore has made it impossible for the UN peacekeeping forces to subdue the hostility as a result of the civil war. The UN chief blames the Sudanese government for putting in place obstacles that impede peace efforts. Those obstacles include multiple customs checks, long checkpoint delays and visa issues. The conditions for peace have been hampered by this series of impossible demands and the fact that a military solution is being implemented. The Sudanese government disputes UN figures on the number of displaced and that it is undermining UNAMID or aid efforts.

From My Perspective

Policy Recommendations

* Enable reintegration and recovery in local women’s groups that are monitored by international organizations.

* Enable and reintegrate IDP’s into a trust building relationship with international monitors and local authorities. Officials could conduct various town hall meetings so that the IDP’s in camps can be part of a process to establish best practices and programs that reflect restorative purposes to respond to war injuries. They need to directly and fully participate in the response to the crimes if peace is the goal.

* Work toward building restorative programs that hold the four key values of restorative justice: encounter, amends by offenders, reintegration and inclusion. Having victims, offenders and community members discuss the crime and aftermath and realize a way to restore the whole society to allow for the contributions of each part of society is highly recommended.

Moving forward should not feel like people are being asked to accept being cheated as a condition to accept the forward momentum toward peace. In the current mechanisms, people are being asked to accept that the relationship is an ongoing process of cheating each other. Continuously asking people to accept conditions where they are subjected to unusual scorn and that their experience be silenced or that they accept second class citizenship is not political. If various political parties can’t seem to move beyond old social constraints, then they impede social progress and the norms of the world in which we live in. They should provide an opportunity to stop being mistreated and participate in recovering their dignity and rights, without fear of retaliation.

* Transform cultural relations among the diverse tribes to move beyond differences that have become hardened, toward common interests that bridge diverse people together. The various groups need to relate in a way that does not feel threatening to their way of life. In other words, conducting workshops that bridge people toward understanding each other should not be based on needs and wants. They should be purely on communication toward a constructive way to coexist, without allegiances being built on a struggle for scarce resources or that requires victims to set aside their interests for the benefit of their oppressors in exchange for an end to the offensives. Workshops should focus on integration and help build a communication style that does not provoke violence or asks for unreasonable concessions that do not promote healing within communities.

* Campaigns that strip people of who they are need to stop. They are merely ways to de-legitimize what people stand for. To ask a person to set aside the practices that they value in order to continue to promote the conflict is not a good convention to adopt; it’s unwise. It is merely an illusory assumption that states that society suffers unless those who appear to offend others are stripped of their values or asked to not demand societal change. Civil war victims do not need to conform to the so-called moral majority in order for peace to be accepted in a region and for discrimination to be normalized. To encourage an individual or a group to give up its rights so that they can take steps that are not in their best interests is not lawful or a good practice.

Sudan President Says Only DNA Test Can Prove Rape in Darfur

The President of Sudan, has questioned claims of rape in Sudan and called all the claims by women in the camps fabrications. He is fully convinced that no mass rape took place as a tool of war and that DNA tests can be performed on children who are born from women who claim to have been raped to prove guilt or innocence in the claims against the accused. Bashir has stated that rape is not in the tradition of the Darfuris and he could not answer how the names of all militia members who are accused in the sexual assaults could be collected.

Sudan Detains Notorious Figure from Darfur War

Bowing to pressure, Sudan arrested a tribal leader accused of numerous atrocities by the ICC. Ali Kushayb, a former commander of the Janjaweed militia has an ICC arrest warrant on 51 counts of alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Sudan’s justice minister confirmed that the former Janjaweed commander will be tried by the country’s own courts and that he will be held accountable. Sudan argues that Kushayb acted alone in Darfur in conducting acts against humanity while he denies any responsibility for the Janjaweed. Complicating matters, it also states that he fought in an official militia, the Popular Defence Force, and that he was implementing the counter-insurgency strategy of the Government that resulted in his committing war crimes and crimes against humanity. Thousands of gunmen were led by Kushayb in Darfur in malicious acts to convey the government’s displeasure with the civil war. Kushayb is charged with 504 murders, 20 rapes and forcing 41,000 people from their homes.

Darfur Officials Return to Work after Attack Protest

As a result of a clash of opinions on government crackdowns on the Kalma camp for displaced people in south Darfur last month, 18 SPLM ministers and politicians went on strike from their regional administrative duties in Darfur. The SPLM leaders have decided that rather than stay on strike, they will work toward establishing a firmer commitment to search for peace and protection of civilians in Darfur. Resuming their work in their official capacity even after protesting the raid may be seen by Darfurians as a hopeful step toward a representative government that acts in its interest and finds excessive force intolerable.

Sudan Completes Probe into Darfur Militia Leader

Although there is no trial set, prosecutors in Sudan, who revived investigations into alleged war crimes earlier this year, have completed an investigation into an accused militia leader, Ali Kushayb. Kushayb is linked to killing and looting in Sudan’s Darfur. Two others have also been investigated.

UN Welcomes Report of Detention of Darfur Crimes Suspect

The spokesperson for the UN, Michele Montas has acknowledged that Ban Ki-Moon has welcomed the detention of militia leader Ali Kosheib for crimes in Darfur.

My Perspective:

Despite all of the snubs that the international community has faced from Khartoum for showing concern, and, all the lack of behavioral change on Khartoum’s part (even given the strikes by regional government officials trying to represent the interests of the displaced), the civil war prevails over the daily rhetoric toward building a peaceful land for a people to live a dignified life. Maybe the right to a dignified life is being considered by Sudanese leaders at this moment. Maybe it’s possible that recent moves to imprison one of the janjaweed leaders are signs that justice might be getting a better chance in a place where traditional lands have been taken forcefully through malice and war. Who knows what makes a people walk into the lives of those who live peacefully and assume that they have the right to ask for understanding for being victimized. In previous international conflicts, soldiers who were simply implementing their duties couldn’t bark up the chain of command, rather they were going to have to explain their innocence by stating they were simply acting on orders. Generally, this can be seen by studying transitional justice in various countries around the world. Ultimately, the right to a dignified life might really have been achieved more directly by victims through means of restorative justice and through the spirit of ubuntu.

Although the list of international vulnerable groups is long, I want to point out one that stands out from a recent article I read from the Hastings International and Comparative Law Review. In the article by Jo M. Pasqualucci, “The Right to a Dignified Life (Vida Digna): The Integration of Economic and Social Rights with Civil and Political Rights in the Inter-American Human Rights System,” the author discusses the State’s obligation for extra protection for vulnerable groups under the Inter-American Human Rights System. In two cases that have come before the Inter-American Court, Yakye Axa and Sawhoyamaxa cases against Paraguay, the facts of the case show that people had lived in destitution in temporary settlements and for several years alongside the roads leading to their ancestral lands. The Court found that in the Yakye Axa case the State was obligated to provide basic needs for those who were not able to regain their ancestral lands, and that in fact, the State was liable for the violation of the right to life of the Yakye Axa People for not making positive steps toward allowing them dignified lives.

Sudan is not an OAS member of the Inter-American Human Rights System. Therefore, how it protects the interest of vulnerable groups in camps with the same interests in mind must be considered from different angles. We can learn from history. National governments have in the past facilitated discussions when vulnerable groups are cast aside for big interests who lay claims to lands. A case in point is the Nuba people versus large-scale commercial agriculture with government approval in Sudan. The Nuba tribes are found in central Sudan, and when they were thrown off their lands, many of them sided with the rebels. In 2002, when the Swiss government and a US initiative led to Nuba talks, the result was a temporary ceasefire agreement. Since then, the Nuba people continue to try to fight for their tribal rights.

Sudan has a constitutional, statutory and civic system of laws that co-exist with both Sharia and indigenous African customary norms and institutions. Indigenous customs are not codified. I hope to find more articles about the planning that has continued for procedures to grant the IDPs legal title to land. It’s worth noting that the IDPs have valid concerns about returning to their lands. A case in point is in Saraf Umra in West Darfur. In December 2006, IDPs were called to a meeting and informed that their IDP status was over. They were given an ultimatum: return to your lands, or settle as residents. Upon returning to their homelands, they found that they had been bulldozed. Fewer than 20,000 IDPs had to return IDP camps, unregistered. A similar situation arose in the Kalma camps where IDPs fled during a raid in October 2007 and could not return the following day to the Kalma camp or any camp for that matter. Many IDPs are still missing.

Although humanitarian efforts to focus the international community’s attention on the status of living of IDPs in the camps and in terms of voluntary return and land occupation are critical, importance should also be placed on the lack of access to the inter-tribal tensions within the camps between armed leaders and IDPs. A breakdown in law and order in camps, armed militias and paramilitaries within the camps, and camp sheikhs resolving local criminality with little police presence has contributed to increased criminality in the camps. The vast majority of IDPs in camps in government-controlled areas, not supporters of the DPA, are in direct conflict with the authority that is responsible for protecting them. Confusion as to which body (the Sudanese government or international bodies) should take the lead on protection of civilians and camp coordination has remained. Effective camp coordination as a result is a goal not a reality. Government officials often harass and closely monitor NGOs and UN agencies involved in these functions. It is important to note, that in order to avoid placing civilians (IDPs) at greater risk, attention to this concern must be careful of inter-tribal relations and focus on human rights and address the complex security challenges in the camps.

Darfur civil society, tribal leaders discuss peace and reconciliation

The Darfur-Darfur Dialogue and Consultation (DDDC) is an autonomous and non-politicized process owned by Darfurians. It facilitates a broad and inclusive consultation process and helps Darfurians find solutions to the root of the conflict in Darfur. The DDDC aims to bring the view of Darfurians into the peace process. Last Wednesday, civil society members and tribal leaders met at the Nyala University Center for Peace and Development Studies. Although the article does not share some of the views that were voiced during the meeting, it does note that the range of topics included were aimed at identifying common ground issues. In opposition to the DDDC's recent meeting, JEM spokesperson Ahmed Hussein Adam said that the only way a healthy environment can exist for the DDDC is after the hostilities and violence have ended not before that. Before this end, the spokesperson suggests is conducting the dialogue in an "acrobatic" way.

Under Secretary-General Alain Le Roy meets with Internally Displaced Persons

Representatives of El Fasher IDPs met with Alain Le Roy, the Under Secretary-General of UN peace operations. It is part of an effort to interact with the local community.

Ukraine May Offer Helicopters for Darfur

The President of Ukraine, Viktor Yuschenko, met with the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon and has been exploring the possibility of deploying Ukrainian military helicopter and personnel to Darfur. The Secretary General has had further discussions with the Ukrainian defense minister in New York. It is not clear whether Khartoum will accept the Ukrainian help. Ban has urged Khartoum to cooperate to ensure full and swift deployment of UNAMID. The force remains small due to obstruction from Sudan's government, UN bureaucracy, and a shortage of helicopters and equipment, according to UN officials, human rights groups and Western diplomats.

Darfur JEM denounces African-Arab efforts to defer ICC move

This week the Sudanese Vice President Ali Osman Taha spoke before the UN Assembly General. He declared that no peace could be reached unless the ICC prosecutor suspended the request for an arrest warrant for Bashir. JEM condemns any attempts to obstruct ICC jurisdiction on Darfur crimes. They condemn the efforts of the African Union and the Arab League to back Sudanese efforts to suspend the indictment. JEM is ready for talks to be held in Qatar. JEM's spokesperson, Ahmed Husein Adam, has stressed that peace and justice can be pursued simultaneously and rejects calls to exchange one for the other. The SLM-Unity spokesperson, Mahgoub Hussein, has also rejected a bargain on international justice. He has expressed that justice is a first step for peace. The Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim binn Jabr al-Thani supports the ICC suspension because it would allow Qatar to host the mediation to end the conflict.

Sudan reports surrender of rebel unit

UNAMID received information from the Sudanese military that 116 Darfur rebels have surrendered and handed over 13 vehicles. The rebels belong to the JEM.

Palin Team Originally Opposed Divesting of holdings to protest Darfur

Although Sarah Palin has suggested that she was at the forefront of Alaska's campaign to divest from Sudan, the record shows that her administration was against the divestment first. HB 287 was introduced to the Alaska House of Representatives last January. It encouraged divestment. Palin's representative, Deputy Revenue Commissioner Brian Andrews, stated in a committee hearing that the passing of the bill would not help the afflicted in Sudan and would increase administrative costs. Palin's change of heart actually occurred in March, when she spoke with Democrat Les Gara when she showed sympathy for the bill. This is after the bill died in committee. Palin put her sympathy to action in April when her administration supported Senate Bill 227 on divestment. However, the bill also died in committee.

From My Perspective

This week sees American politics once again flaunt irresponsible claims and disguises. They hope that fact checkers or citizens who like to have a good faith relationship with those seeking political office will just lower their standards. Go ahead lie to us, what do we care, right? It's not impressive to make bad faith statements to win over people who don't think that running to the front of the line to self-aggrandize is all that impressive. Especially that’s true, when we’re talking about how spending for some means considering where their investments go. It's the type of bad faith move that Americans don't need. It's as bad as the fear and loathing approach taken by Palin on other foreign policy interests.

As far as within Sudan itself, JEM seems ready to move toward ICC indictments of Bashir, but not ready to allow civil society and tribal leaders in Darfur to begin talking before peace happens. Then there's disagreement on which should come first, peace or justice or should they be pursued on a dual-track. UNAMID's effort to strengthen its force by getting more support to meet transportation and equipment needs is getting more contributions by world leaders. This occurs while the UN reaches out to the IDPs in El Fasher to bridge the gap between aide groups and those who have been forced into the crossfire. The assumption might be that those who are targets of the hate crimes will simply disappear or not fight back.

What are the costs in not meeting a mutually agreeable solution in Darfur? How do different societies live alongside one another? That's probably on the minds of those traumatized by getting into a pretty hopeless situation where the odds haven't been in their favor for a while for wanting human security and their rights restored. Did the people who are displaced step out of line and how long do they pay for that if they did? Coexistence might be on the minds of the Janjaweed or at least maybe it could be eventually. There are various perspectives on this. If a group of people can be dehumanized and made invisible, and the leadership doesn't see a better way to govern or is unwilling to change its policies, can the representatives of that government be convinced that there are many interests that need to be met in the people they serve? This week, Bashir stated that the people are the referees and need to make their own choices; is that principle going to be reflected in Sudanese domestic policies and actions taken to encourage the displaced that they have nothing to fear and can live securely, eventually not needing to live in refugee camps? Wouldn't Sudan benefit from addressing the concerns throughout the international community economically, politically and socially?

Depending on how important it is to win a fight, we might look at the Darfur situation as unstoppable and that both sides will continue to increase attacks on each other. However, there's a way out for the victims and for those who continue attacks on each other. There is actually no victory to be had in Darfur. Darfurians and Sudanese have a few choices: participate in developing a society that will satisfy them or live in fear of attacks and be misused as a tool or obstacle to an ultimate goal.

What do the different interests want ultimately? The DDDC is hopefully getting closer to understanding what civil society wants. If the demands can be met for the various interests, it's possible that all the interests could help each other out of the bad situation where the benefits of saving each life on all sides far outweighs the worse choice of continuing down a destructive path. Ultimately, the responsibility to choose improvement over denying people their right to live experiencing life beyond feeling fear, pain, humiliation, and sadness lies on those who still have that choice and who can show they consider quality living a better option than the making of a circumstantial underclass.

Darfur This Week

UNAMID police deployment (from 12 countries) nears 50% of authorized strength

During the last month 189 police advisors, including 17 female advisors, from 12 countries have arrived in Darfur to join UNAMID. They are training Community Policing Volunteers in the camps and are training Sudan Police to improve their standards of policing to meet international acceptable standards. They are also training patrols in the IDP camps.

Sudan UN envoy says Georgia war eased international pressure on his country

Abdel-Haleem Abdel-Mahmood, Sudan’s envoy to the UN, told the Inner City Press that the conflict between Georgia and Russia shifted focus from Sudan and relieved international pressure. He also stated that Sudan is opposed to the independence of Kosovo.

US Presidential Candidates answer questions on Darfur

Three organizations asked the Democratic and Republican candidates ten questions about their plans of action on the continuing crisis in Darfur. The interview is very helpful in understanding what the candidates’ position are on Darfur and their views on the ICC, UNAMID and their approaches to foreign affairs with countries doing business with Sudan and US punitive measures.

Key differences in the candidates include:

On how to engage China to use its leverage to help end the genocide:

Obama: he has urged more constructive approach to Sudan in talks with Chinese Ambassadors
McCain: he will have discussions with Chinese leaders and states that China should pay the price for obstructionism if it blocks the alleviation of the humanitarian disaster

On bringing to justice perpetrators:

McCain: support granting ICC jurisdiction and calls for Khartoum to comply with its obligation to turn over perpetrators to be brought to trial
Obama: supports ICC and having indicted criminals turned over to ICC if they travel overseas and calls for political and economic pressure on Khartoum

On making Darfur a priority:

Obama: Yes, from day One
McCain: Yes, denouncing the genocide is not enough and we must provide assistance to victims

on failure of CPA agreement of 2005:

McCain: very critical of failure and that the objective must be human security and inalienable right of self-determination of people in Darfur
Obama: wants more preventive policies

on how they would promote lasting peace:

Obama: implement CPA of 2005 in full; appoint a senior special envoy for all of Sudan to fulfill this mission to ensure implementation; work with regional leaders in the international community to rekindle peace process
McCain: honor peace accords on the books including rights of citizens of South Sudan to determine whether they want to be part of Sudan

on ensuring UNAMID is well deployed:

McCain: says he would do more than currently is being done to aid the force and to address the problem that Sudan has been allowed to hamstring the size of the force by a string of delaying tactics and impossible demands. He would work closely with allies to assure flow of assistance and protection
Obama: while acknowledging the obstacles that Sudan has introduced in terms of UNAMID deployment he calls for stiff penalties to be imposed by the US and broader international community for these obstructions. He would work with allies to impose sanctions in response to obstructions. He also would work with NATO to develop a plan for enforcing the UN ban on offensive military flights by the Government of Sudan. He would reduce Chinese support for Khartoum. He would increase monitoring of UN arms embargo and ensure full effectiveness of UNAMID. He would assist African countries to enhance their readiness to deploy.

Darfur Janjaweed leader criticizes 2nd VP agreement with Minnawi

Musa Hilal was appointed in January 2008 as an advisor for the Ministry of Federal Government. Formerly having robbed a bank and widely regarded as the top Janjaweed leader in Darfur, he has denied on videotape any leadership roles in any atrocities. According to Human Rights Watch, government documents have urged that security units allow the activities of the mujahedeen and those who in the name of Hilal secure the vital needs in North Darfur. Those who act in the interest of Hilal have been known, through witness accounts, to prevent people seeking to return to farming lands outside Kebkabiya in Merguba. Instead, it has become known as the land of Musa Hilal.

In an interview with Al-Sharq Al-Awsat newspaper, he criticized an agreement between the Second Vice President Al Osman Taha and the senior presidential assistant Minni Arcua Minnawi which renews both sides’ adherence to the DPA and puts in an order to enforce it within a month. Hilal says that Minnawi has gotten more than he deserves.

Doha urged to act in Darfur refugee crisis

At a seminar on the prospects of peace in Darfur organized by the Doha-based Arab Democracy Foundation (ADF), Dr. Mohamed Suleiman, director of the Institute for African Alternatives in London, said that the conflict in Darfur started as a result of dispute over water resources and grazing, but after the Islamists came to power it turned into a conflict about identity and ideology.

In response to Qatar’s interest in brokering a peace deal between the parties of the conflict, Dr. Suleiman stated that Qatar is not ready to do so and requested that Qatar take other measures currently to convince the Sudanese government to stop killing the Darfur people.

The head of the Darfur People League in Qatar called upon the armed militia groups in Darfur to meet in Doha. The head of the Sudanese community in Qatar urged that the rebels should put down their weapons and practice their rights by participating in elections. Both defend that Qatar would be a good place for talks since it is neutral.

My Perspective

International pressure on Sudan needs to increase. The open ended war that has gone on has not provided closure on direct actions taken on Darfurians and for those who can not rest until there is more than an acknowledgement of the conflict. Is it possible that Darfur may become another South Ossetia or Abkassia? What will be decided in July 2010 by referendum? I’m not sure, but I do know that we can look at other international conflicts and see that from voting booths of many continents, people chose to demand their liberty. That liberty was for all kinds of reasons: race, religion, freedom to live without fear, and a freedom to not be persecuted or to be treated as criminals. The differences among people can be seen as either threatening or can cause an interesting cultural exchange that does not necessarily lead to the loss of one’s cultural identity.

That liberty is in the eyes of the small child who sees the world as holding opportunities for a life worth living. It is that liberty that is protected by the laws that were written by those who stayed in touch with the needs of the people. It is the liberty that fearful refugees find foreign when they have been reduced to merely surviving.

When we look at the societies that people are born into, cultural identity and national integrity are important. Still when we hear radical leaders argue that they see it as a threat to the sovereign character of a country when the international community sees a difference in norms in how they are treating people within a nation’s border, we cannot allow this to be an obstacle in our pursuit of peace and justice in the world. In fact, the Treaty of Westphalia is the foundation on which the nation state system worked since its inception. It has been modified since the 1600s most notably by the Charter of the UN.

Resolution 1244 approved in 1999 by the UN Security Council also seriously changed the dimensions of how tall of a curtain nation states around the world could build to avoid the international accountability. The world turned into what has been called the post-Westphalian world. That resolution on Kosovo redefined the sovereign character of the nation state. To emphasize that the world watches very critically while a government does not comply with international norms to stop an internal conflict rather adds to it, a series of agreements by the UN on Human Rights among Member States were shaped. These were calls for cooperation among all nations. When a nation argues that it is its sovereignty that it protects, this is actually no longer a valid argument when choosing whose interests are being served. We are in a post-Westphalian world. NATO and the UN worked together to enforce that there were legitimate concerns by the international community and that there were sufficient grounds to question the behavior of the Yugoslav government in terms of human-rights considerations. This was pursued even given the fear that countries would be held accountable for their own governance. It established a precedent.

If a people are against a government’s policies, it is not the government’s option to destroy those people. It is their responsibility to defend their policies or to consider why the policies are not being well received. It has been well documented in many news sources, that the Janjaweed, backed by Khartoum, kill members of tribes that are known to be critical of Sudan’s policies in regards to their own welfare and then move onto to the very land where they have performed their vicious attacks. That’s war with the purpose of genocide.

Now for the evidence. There have been numerous victim accounts - including drawing of children, accounts by raped women - statements by international human rights NGOs, and news sources around the world that have brought to light the statements of witnesses to crimes and struggles regarding the peace agreement and support for measures to end the violence. Increasingly, we watch UNAMID strengthen its efforts and share its policing knowledge, norm-building efforts and confidence-building measures to improve the living conditions and fight the winds of oppression and imposed control that leave a people to continue a fight without the means to end it. For what purpose?

There’s still a lack of human security in Darfur. If I were sitting in a refugee camp wondering about how my non-Arab Muslim faith had anything to do with the access I should receive to natural resources, I might wonder why I had to have endured racial epithets and had to live in fear. If I were in that camp, I might not know about the “Documenting Atrocities in Darfur” report on Darfur Genocide that was released by the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor and the Bureau of Intelligence and Research in September 2004. (Interviews in that report reveal incriminating evidence of the acts of violence experienced and witnessed in Darfur. Those statistics include 55% witnessing or personally experiencing the destruction of personal property, 61% witnessing or personally experiencing the killing of a family member, and 81% witnessing or personally experiencing village destruction. One of the findings in that report said that 91% of the refugees said that many villages were not defended at all against attacks.) With the pain of repression sitting squarely on my chest and having deeply rooted itself into my being, how would all of those interviews bring me back to regaining what was lost?

How can it? The people who sit in the refugee camps deserve to reclaim what has been lost. It is in everyone’s interest. Everyone loses otherwise.

African-UN Peacekeepers in Darfur Train Sudanese Forces on Protection

UNAMID conducted a workshop last week on security coordination for senior and mid-level managers focusing on sharing information between UNAMID and the Sudanese government in order to bolster the security of the UN staff and property. The chief of police of the Sudanese Police Force in North Darfur, General Ahmad Atta Al Mannan Othman, said that since peace is the goal in western Sudan, working hand-in-hand will accomplish this. Coordination efforts include developing a better understanding of UN security mechanisms and guidelines for Sudanese police, national security and military intelligence.

Sudanese suspects confess to killing USAID officer

On New Year’s Day, John Granville who worked with USAID and his Sudanese driver Abdel-Rahman were killed in their car just before dawn. Five suspects are standing trial for the assassination. On Wednesday, in a video confession, two of the suspects said they shot at Granville and Rahma with a 9 mm pistol and a Kalashnikov rifle. Abdel Basit al-Hajj said that it took 12 to 15 seconds and that it was with the help of God that they killed the American infidel. Both suspects said that they were planning another attack in February on a US target when they were arrested. Sudanese prosecutor Mohamed AL-Mustafa Musa said that the group came from the town of Atbara and intended to strike Western targets.

275 rabbis urge Secretary Rice to expand Sudan arms embargo

Calling for the voluntary suspension of arms sales to Sudan, rabbis representing thousands of congregants sent a letter to Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice on this pressing matter. Noting that two Security Council resolutions have not affected a change in the movement of weaponry to Darfur, the letter stresses the failure of Member States in living up to their obligations to prevent the supply of arms to parties in conflict. They also point out that China provides an estimated 90% of Sudan’s small arms imports since 2004. In order to negotiate this difference, the letter calls on the Bush administration to honor broken promises and stand firmly against China on the issue of arms sales in order to fulfill its promise to Darfurians.

OIC calls for prudence before trying to arrest Bashir

The Secretary General of the 57-member Organization of the Islamic Conference, Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, has called for prudence in proceedings against Bashir. From his perspective, he senses a consensus among different international organizations that the ICC prosecutions should take a back seat to more negotiations and action by the Sudanese government that assure the international community that they are moving in the right direction. In exchange for a gesture of good will from Khartoum towards the ICC, France may also suspend support for international proceedings against Bashir.

ICC Prosecutor to hold talks on Darfur case

Luis Moreno-Ocampo traveled to the UN this week to ask Member States not to suspend the case against Bashir. According to the prosecutor, his appeal to world leaders to protect victims challenges the international community. It runs parallel with calls by civil society and international human rights organizations and puts to the test Member States who in the interest of those who are suffering greatly in Darfur may need to stop stalling on actions that might forever bring to an end the war between the Sudanese government and members of the Darfurian tribes who have been under attack.

From My Perspective

While the ICC seeks the indictment of Bashir, this week shows increased pressure by UNAMID, leaders of the Jewish religious community, and Sudanese security forces to address international concerns involving Darfur. They seek more confidence building measures toward ending the violence. In the meantime, the Sudanese Courts are busily showing that they are still firmly committed to the war against extreme terrorist cells that are still among the top threats to international peace and security.

What is being confronted today is the lack of political will by Member States. This has been brought front and center by the ICC’s move to negotiate the differences between international community norms on human rights and security concerns and Sudanese domestic policies that cannot provide the conditions for peace that are necessary to end the genocide. The government continues its attacks on refugee camps while the region of Darfur still remains a territory in dispute. In the fight over land rights and in the attacks on the three tribes specified in frequent news stories and by the ICC, a campaign continues that does not consider the needs of the victims. They are set off to become casualties of a war where passions run high and the law does not protect the very people it was set out to protect.

Whose interests are being secured when the international community watches its principles and values get worn down by systemic lethargy? It can’t be in the interest of Sudan and its policies to continue to be isolated economically by the US and its allies. Doesn’t defining citizen rights within a border in a country whose laws may not be based on Western law hold a higher priority than where the concerns come from? Sudanese security forces can learn from UNAMID and UN mechanism.

What about enforcing some of the Security Council resolutions so that countries that do not comply with those resolutions are held accountable? If providing arms to rebel groups so that differences can be settled through armed conflict is a preferred practice then why spend time penning mandates, international law and resolutions that document concerns and are supposed to lead to enforceability? The interests of the UN are to protect the world from the scourge of war, from regular people becoming victimized, while protecting the interests of the most powerful nations and developing countries. It’s not a coin toss as to who gets to be treated according to human rights principles. It is morally distasteful to see governance take such lame duck attitudes.

What are the policy priorities in Sudan? From the perspective of the United States, according to the State Department, as of September 11, 2008, US policy toward Darfur includes the rapid deployment of UNAMID, an immediate cease-fire and protection of humanitarian workers and a political settlement for the Darfur crisis. Within Sudan, policies since 9/11 have shown their commitment to fighting terrorism, and yet what about their domestic policies? In a time when Bashir should focus his policy decisions on the economic needs of the Sudanese people, including Darfur in his decisions, Bashir chooses to continue to place more emphasis on pan-Arabic fundamentalism that increases the tensions within the disputed territory and all of Sudan and ignores the interests of the Western part of the country.

Sudan’s domestic policies are aimed at ensuring that certain Arab tribes benefit and maintain their power while those who do not belong to those tribes see their fundamental rights whittle away. What do Sudanese policies instill in its people? How do the government methods - their crackdowns - affect upcoming generations who may want to see a more comprehensive policy that has a dimension that more resembles the interests of the people it should serve? The will of the people is not delivered by being armed to the teeth, and still the arms trade goes on between China and Darfur. Policies that provide for those who are most affected by the conflict should be developed so that their fundamental rights are taken into consideration and that their grievances do not meet with policies that avoid improving opportunities for Darfurians, no matter what tribe they are from.

Although the OIC and other Arab leaders are concerned that the stability and security of Sudan is at risk if the President is indicted, I believe that peace and justice must continue to be pursued in the interest of victims of Sudanese policies that are discriminatory.

Presidency meeting in Sudan stresses on coordination with South Africa

Many issues were discussed during the meeting of the Presidency of the Republic this past week. Highlights include the necessity of coordination with South Africa in all regional and international forums for the realization of peace in Darfur. Other subcommittees and political executive committees provided briefings on their achievements. The meeting also reviewed the outcome of Mbeki’s visit to Sudan and its achievements in pushing forward bilateral relations.

Mbeki says prosecution would undermine efforts

South African President, Thabo Mbeki, says that the prosecution of al-Bashir will not bring any positive contribution to the crisis in Darfur. He has formally stated South African opposition to the ICC indictment. South Africa, along with Libya, Russia and China have asked the UN Security Council for a resolution to postpone any efforts toward prosecution.

South African President Mbeki in Khartoum

South Africa’s president Mbeki travelled to Khartoum to discuss policies to resolve the crisis in Darfur and ICC allegations. He also planned to meet Salva Kiir, the first VP and President of autonomous south Sudan. The President flew in from Zimbabwe where he mediated a power-sharing deal with Mugabe and rival Tsvangiral.

ICC may add deadly Darfur camp attack to list of war crimes

The Chief Prosecutor of the ICC, Moreno-Ocampo has stated that the ICC is trying to see if there has been a new policy put in place by Khartoum to to directly attack civilians following news of the attack on the Kalma camp. They are still try to see if this is an isolated event without authorization or if the Kalma camp attacks are more evidence in support of a genocide case against al-Bashir.

Ban Ki-Moon welcomes establishment of new Ministerial Committee

Last week the Arab League set up a ministerial committe tasked with defusing the conflict in Darfur. This week, Ban Ki-Moon has welcomed its establishment.

AU says Sudan judiciary will look into Darfur crimes

Local courts will investigate Darfur rights abuses according to Ramadan Al-Amamra, the Commissioner of the AU Peace and Security Council. He has stated that they will combat impunity in relation to the crimes that have been committed. Although he has stated that Khartoum may utilize the expertise of judges and lawyers from Arab and African countries, Sudan has rejected such proposals. He has also said that there will be formulated recommendations to enhance national reconciliation by a team of African figures. AU commission chairman Jean Ping said that they are going to create a panel of eminent lawyers to work in Sudan and that this has been accepted by Sudan. As far as African countries at the UN and their position on the ICC ruling, the Commissioner said that they will make a renewed push to invoke Article 16 of the ICC Statute to allow the UNSC to suspend the ICC prosecution for 12 months.

From My Perspective

In terms of foreign policy, it’s important to compare Mbeki’s foreign policy interests and Mandela’s. How does it compare with Mandela’s foreign policy and non-African intervention in African conflicts like Darfur? Mandela’s foreign policy came out of the context of an isolated South Africa. His foreign policy stressed human rights and democracy. He was committed to international law. Mbeki’s foreign policy stresses regional power, where he has actually worked with local dictators. He has stressed more of a development policy and has focused on macro policy problems that he inherited after Mandela. He has also stressed multilateralism. He has been criticized for his missions abroad, whereby they need to be strengthened and that he has not put more priority on having a presence in international organizations. Mandela was not opposed to foreign aid to African countries and Mbeki values less dependence on aid and foreign intervention seeing them as barriers to being taken seriously in international relations, economically and politically. He did little to fight off trade-not-aid trends. Mandela rejected trade relations that came with strings attached. He asked for the world to not look away to help make poverty history. Development has become an important part of Mbeki’s policies, but often he looks for an African solution. Although Mbeki handled a good deal of the foreign policy issues while Mandela was President, the focus of foreign policy during their presidencies is important to distinguish. While Mandela was President, foreign policy focused on the role that South Africa should play in the global community.

I raise these points, in hopes that Mbeki can use strategies like moral diplomacy that Mandela used in the case of Libya and Qaddafi and help Sudan move toward a result that will help resolve the Darfur conflict.

Egypt on talks with UN, others for deal to resolve Darfur crisis

A package deal that covers all political, humanitarian, security and legal aspects of the Darfur crisis has been submitted as a proposal by the Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Aboul Gheut to the UN and the AU.

World Bank stops financing Chad oil pipeline

In response to Chad’s failure to meet its commitments to allocate funds to health, education and rural-development projects, the World Bank has stopped financing the Chad-Cameroon pipeline. Chad’s commitment was to continue to channel oil revenue to the poor. Relations with the bank have worsened ever since Chad has tapped more of its oil profits for military spending to counter rebels and increased costs related to Darfur refugees fleeing Darfur.

Arab League sets up Darfur Committee

At an Arab League meeting of foreign ministers in Cairo on Monday, a decision was made to form a committee tasked with defusing the conflict in Darfur. Representatives from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Syria, Libya and Egypt will be on the committee. The committee will sponsor peace talks between the rebel groups and the Sudanese government, in cooperation with the AU and the UN.

Darfur rebels name Janjaweed figure leading recent attacks

SLM leader Abdel-Wahid Al-Nur told the Sudan Tribune that Mohamed Kheir Samijodo from the Mahr tribe is a janjaweed fighter who has executed attacks in coordination with the Sudaense army in North Darfur this past weekend. The result of the attacks was that 40,000 were displaced, according to Al-Nur. Al-Nur also criticized UNAMID for not living up to their responsibility to protect civilians.

Sudan attacks Darfur rebel positions for 2nd day forcing civilians to flee

Two rebel faction leaders of the SLA alleged that Sudanese army soldiers attacked rebel positions around the settlement of Dobo and Aradim, about 45 miles from El Fasher. Attacks also occurred on Saturday close to the town of Kutum. Both leaders, al-Helwu and Harir, reported casualties and civilians fleeing. Harir stated that the government is trying to clear the people from the area and push them north in order to control the main roads. A spokesperson from the armed forces described the military action in Darfur as stable.

My Perspective

The fight against impunity continues. Acts against the African tribes in Darfur (Fur, Masalit and Zaghawa) continue. In a rare concession, Darfur rebels have named a Janjaweed figure who led recent attacks. Little is available about Mohamed Kheir Samijodo other than he is from Mahr tribe. Armed pro-government janjaweed fighters have been photographed, however not perpetrating the acts of traumatizing individual members of these tribes. After the government attacked the IDP camp, UNAMID has moved in to restore some security to civilians at the Kalma IDP camp. The janjaweed have continued their attacks against the three tribes, while rebel leaders have often been too silent about attacks as they have chosen power struggles. They stay firmly deadlocked on furthering peaceful negotiations, instead of finding a means to address the core conflicts in the interest of all parties. These very factions have created their own set of pre-conditions to attendance at talks and do not disarm. Neither does the Sudanese government.

In order to stop the violence and impunity, the competing interests of the rebel groups need to be voiced in real dialogue to move toward unity rather than division.

It’s a stand-off that will hopefully bring forward more impressive rebel leaders like Suleiman Jamous, who was the humanitarian coordinator of the SLA. The SLA has not historically showed much concern for the effect of the war, rather they have placed more importance on their position not on abuses. However, if more rebel leaders choose to call out the Janjaweed who continue their attacks, there is more chance that they might show an understanding of humanitarian principles rather than the principles of division and discrimination, whereby they are consumed with the war.

The importance of Suleiman Jamous is significant. He worked tirelessly with the SLA for three years to mend the divisions within the SLA and was candid about the rebel abuses he witnessed. He also tried to bring humanitarian relief to displaced people and has been described as the Nelson Mandela of Sudan. He was suppressed by the government for his efforts.

In September 2005, he attended the Darfur peace talks in Abuja and voted for a negotiated settlement. In response to his decision, the rebel leader Minni Minawi had him arrested in Bir Maza. Minawi was opposed to a negotiated settlement. Severe punishments were imposed on any villagers who showed concern for Jamous’ whereabouts. This included three people who were driven around Bir Maza naked in an open truck and others who were stripped naked and beaten in broad daylight. Showing concern for a fellow villager led to cruel abuses. After being held for one month, the UN intervened and secured his release from Minawi. He was taken to a UN hospital in Kadugli and was confined there for 14 months. There he was not allowed any contact with the outside world and had an armed guard continuously at his door.

International efforts to promote the release of Jamous, included a petition and received much media attention. Finally, in September 2007, Al-Bashir agreed to release Jamous. Jamous had to pledge that he would not enter Darfur until the peace talks began. Speaking from Paris in May of this year, he suggested that peace talks begin from zero and that Abuja talks were rejected completely. He stressed that the talks need to be sponsored by the international community to guarantee implementation. It would be very interesting to hear what he has to say about Egypt’s package deal to the UN and the AU to facilitate the peace process in Darfur.

Sudan foreign minister says ruling NCP not serious about Darfur peace

The National Congress Party (NCP) is under attack by Deng Alor, the Sudanese foreign minister. He has stated that the parties must sit at the negotiating tables. Deng Alor is also a key figure of the SPLM. The foreign minister has stated that the accusations from the international community are not needed, and that instead they need consensus to solve the problems. Alor has pointed out that the NCP has no choice but to deal with the ICC and that demonstrations and protests will not solve anything.

Regarding Chinese intervention, Alor has expressed that the Chinese will not sacrifice their interests with the West for Sudan’s sake.

UNAMID radio started one month radio journalism training capacity building program

Ten local radio journalists in El Fasher have started a radio journalism training and capacity building program. Basic radio journalism training will be conducted for Darfurians by UNAMID between September and December 2008.

18 SPLM officials in Darfur suspend participation over camp attack

In response to not being informed of the government plan to conduct a raid on the Kalma camp last week, 3 ministers and 15 legislators, all SPLM, suspended their participation in executive and legislative bodies. The Darfuri SPLM officials have stated that elections cannot be held without a resolution and a return of the refugees and IDPs to Darfur. In response, a figure of the NCP, has called the action an attempt to make political gains and predicts that they will reverse their decision.

Islamic scholar lashes out at Arab Lawyers Syndicate in Cairo

A former Dean of the Islamic Law department at Qatar University, Professor Abdel-Hammed Al-Ansari has been quoted as saying, “Al-Bashir does not need the ALS to defend him, but the Darfur victims and the millions of oppressed are in desperate need of legal help from these advocates. It should be noted that a delegation of the ALS flew to Khartoum after the ICC announcement to support Al-Bashir. Al-Ansari provided a historical context for ALS backing by stating that they have also backed Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad and the late Iraqi president Saddam Hussein. He endorses the genocide charges made by the ICC prosecutor. He argues that the ALS always tries to ignore the victims and that they are promoting double standards. Echoing the former Dean, French-Libyan born counsel Dr. Hadi Shalluf calls the ALS a political body that serves regimes that provide them with money and that they are not acting in the interests of oppressed victims.

Report on Kalma and Turabi’s Tour

According to a tribal leader in the Kalma camp, Ibrahim Adam, more than 100 police vehicles loaded with heavily armed men laid siege on the camp searching for weapons. The IDPs refused. Thirty people were killed and ten were injured as police opened fire. An official for the South Darfur state stated that Darfur rebels had been using the camps to create agitation against the government.

Little is known about Al-Turabi’s recent visit to the African Center for Human Rights in Switzerland. He said that he conducted talks with diplomats and officials and that Switzerland was seeking to play a role in settling the Darfur crisis. His objectives were financial, political and cultural. Al-Turabi is expected to tour the US, Britain and other Western countries.

From my Perspective:

When will Darfurians have status and choice, and enjoy the means and the context for peace? The conflict has seen serious debate about foreign intervention, with calls for political, military and humanitarian-related approaches meeting various levels of support. However, as Columbia University’s Mahmoud Mamdani has stated, "Anyone wanting to end the spiraling violence would have to bring about power-sharing at the state level and resource-sharing at the community level, land being the key resource." This means that Darfurians must have choice. The timeline for this has been suggested and is described below. As perplexing, the answer to why Muslim press and leaders still seem to be in denial about the conflicts in Darfur and why it seems that Darfur has fallen into its blind spot is not to come in this piece. Instead, it will point out that a monopoly of power enjoyed by a few has continued to marginalize populations and empowered rebels to chose not to pursue power-sharing as an obvious step toward peace. This has still left many indigent Darfurians wondering when and how it will ever be safe to go about their lives without a reliance on the refugee camps, which are now also under attack.

Choice: The Darfur Peace Agreement (DPA) assigned the responsibility of enhancing cooperation and coordination among the three Darfur states (West, South and North Darfur) to the Transitional Darfur Regional Authority (TDRA). Membership of the TDRA includes Minni Minnawi (Chairman), Dr. Mohammed Suleimann Adam (Secretary General), Osman Mohamed Yousif Kibir (Governor of North Darfur), Ali Mahmoud (Governor of South Darfur), Abu el-Gasim al-Hajj (Governor of West Darfur) and Ibrahim Madibo (Chair of the Darfur Reconstruction and Development Fund). It is an interim authority, and the permanent status of the Darfur region is supposed to be determined by a referendum in July 2010. Darfuris will chose between a single autonomous region of Darfur that includes the three current states or status quo. What will Darfurians chose?

Muslim leaders: The identity that has been pushed in Sudan on a multi-racial, multi-ethnic, multi-religious Sudan is a historical problem that ignores this diversity. Individual rights and freedoms have been the price for those who resist an imposed identity. There are no human rights in this context even when tribes or groups might all just want to be left to live simply with respect and dignity and access to participating in public debates that affect their lives. What is the role of Muslim leaders in current Sudan? Shouldn't they be avoiding narrow political or religious interests and embracing tackling the plight of those who are stuck in camps unsure of how they will ever return to Darfur? Shouldn't they be answering the questions of their communities who are looking for the right dialogues that lead toward setting aside the prioritization of sovereignty over curtailing and ending impunity? How can allowing people to kill each other not feel like a horrible license to kill based on thumbing a proverbial nose on what the responsibility of government is? In August of this year, the SPLM, which wants to continue to have good relations with major powers like the US, and the NCP met to draw common grounds on peace plans in Darfur. Ideological differences in the interpretation of the 2005 peace agreement have created mistrust. I hope that differences can be set aside so that national identity can include the reality of the situation: a diversity of beliefs and ethnicity.

Al-Jazeera TV w/ Sud. Rebel’s Advisor on Hijacked Plane - on board leaders from Land Commission

This is a short interview between Al-Jazeera and Abd-al-Aziz Uthman, an advisor to the SLM. The interviewer asked Uthman what he thinks the motive was for the hijacking. Uthman refused to speculate. Uthman did however note that there were a minimum of three of their leaders were onboard: the president of the Darfur Land Commission (Rahman), the leader of the Darfur Authority and also King Al-Malik. All were involved in a Land Commission workshop in Nyala.

Sudanese Forces Amass Again at Darfur Camp after Deadly Raid

The Kalma camp is facing renewed attacks by Sudanese authorities. Authorities claim that it is the base for Darfur's rebels and want to confiscate all smuggled weapons. The spokesperson for the displaced people living in the camps, Hussein Abu Sharati, states that the camp was surrounded at dawn on Monday with Sudanese security forces. The spokesperson has dismissed the government's statements and said, "This is a plan orchestrated at the highest levels of government…Al-Bashir had promised last year to make the Darfur displaced go home before the UNAMID forces arrive in Darfur." Ahmed Abdel Shafie, an SLA commander, said that Khartoum wants the IDPs to be disbanded to "push the conflict under the carpet after the ICC move."

Darfur runner wins Sudan’s first Olympic medal

Sudan has participated in the Olympics for nearly 50 years and has never brought home a medal. Until now. After sending nine athletes to Beijing, a Darfur native, Ismail Ahmed Ismail, won the country's first medal, a silver in the men's 800 meter race. Al-Sahafa, a Sudanese daily, headlined the story as "an unprecedented achievement." Sudanese newspapers were in agreement. Ismail grew up in Khartoum, although his family is from western Darfur. I can't find words to express my joy. "This is an achievement for my country first and then for me," Ismail said in the Sudan Media Center.

Misseria and Rizeigat clash over claims to water in remote part of South Darfur

Two Arab nomadic tribes, the Misseria and Rizeigat had a fatal clash last week in Abu Gabra as a result of tensions over claims to water in remote parts of South Darfur. According to members of the both tribes, approximately 55 Misseria were killed and 65 Rizeigat are casualties. The dispute began months ago over access to a reservoir. A senior Rizeigat tribesman, Mohamed Issa, blames the lack of security forces. Both tribes maintain that elders are working toward restoring good relations.

Excerpt from ’TEARS OF THE DESERT: A Memoir of Survival in Darfur’

This is an excerpt from Halima Bashir that describes a beautiful relationship with her father, her naming ceremony as a member of the Zaghawa tribe and a brutal rape she endured and live to tell about. It is a must read.

Janjaweed Militiamen Gang-Rape 3 Darfur Women: IDP Spokesperson

A group of Janjaweed militiamen gang-raped three women at the Kalma camp in South Darfur. The victims' names are Tayba Adam Al-Tahir (15 years old), Aicha Youssef (17 years old) and Kaltouma Salih (55 years old). This is according to the spokesperson of Darfur displaced and refugees at the camp, Hussein Abu-Sharati. The spokesperson said that no action was taken after an Egyptian officer of the AU-UNAMID mission with the UN was notified.

This article leads me to mention a meeting with Al-Bashir and New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson. The result of that meeting was "Laws Without Justice: An Assessment of Sudanese Laws Affecting Survivors of Rape." The report is available at Refugees International. It is an in-depth look at Sudanese laws that affect rape victims. I recommend reading it. One important aspect of the law can be seen in the fact that victims of rape need to deal with the fact that rape is defined as adultery (zina).

From the Refugees International Report:

"Rape victims have strong reasons not to subject themselves to even the possibility of being charged with zina since the penalties for this crime are extraordinarily harsh. Unmarried women convicted of zina receive one hundred lashes; married women are sentenced to death by stoning."

My Perspective:

Low intensity conflict has reared its head continually. Within it, amongst Darfurians the prevalent feeling is fear, insecurity, anger - not a context for peace. Darfur's low intensity conflict has crept onto the world's stage and harnessed it like a plague does an unwitting population wondering how it is possible that no vaccine exists. Like a syndrome of abuse where an abusive parent justifies its abuse onto the next generation for having been abused, the low intensity conflict has become a deliberate acceptance of abusive behavior - perpetuated by the denial among factions and tribes involved in the conflict and those who have bore witness. The psychology of terrorizing and of punishing people for their opposition to being destroyed is the context in Darfur. Not a context for peace; it is a context for injustice.

In 2005, a context for peace was called for and documents brought to the attention of newspaper readers that gave proof that the Khartoum government was acting against the interests of Darfurians. Few people are aware of a document that Nicholas Kristof wrote about in his op-ed piece "The Secret Genocide Archive," published in the NY Times on February 23, 2005. In that article, Mr. Kristof mentions a document that was seized from a janjaweed official that is a direct call to action to the janjaweed to conduct genocide.

Quote from Kristof's op-ed:

"Dated last August, the document calls for the "execution of all directives from the president of the republic" and is directed to regional commanders and security officials.

"Change the demography of Darfur and make it void of African tribes," the document urges. It encourages "killing, burning villages and farms, terrorizing people, confiscating property from members of African tribes and forcing them from Darfur."

It's worth being skeptical of any document because forgeries are possible. But the African Union believes this document to be authentic. I also consulted a variety of experts on Sudan and shared it with some of them, and the consensus was that it appears to be real."

This same op-ed is quoted in the Brookings Institution/Bern University report, "Protecting Two Million Internally Displaced: The Successes and Shortcomings of the African Union in Darfur," by William G. O'Neill and Violette Cassis (November 2005).

Additionally, according to Eric Reeves who measured the success of the African Union by calling it a failure in his 2005 review, "Ghosts of Rwanda: The Failure of the African Union in Darfur," many such documents are in the possession of the AU, Human Rights Watch and Darfuris.

The same Brookings reports notes that:

"Some fear that the government plans to remove the farmers of Darfur from their land forever. A Sudanese law that allows the government to take over land that has been abandoned for more than a year has never been applied before in Darfur. If this law is applied, millions could lose their land and fuel a cycle of revenge and violence, plus permanent dependence on international charity. This would cement the ethnic cleansing that a UN official maintains was the primary objective of the Khartoum government.”

It has been clear for years that the target of any successful attempt should be stopping the janjaweed with no hesitation to end the insecurity in the region.

How can former US Deputy Secretary of State Robert Zoelick, now the eleventh president of the World Bank, maintain in such an immobilizing way that "It's a tribal war. And frankly I don't think foreign forces want to get in the middle of a tribal war of Sudanese. I don't think we can clean it up because it's not just a question of ending violence, it's a question of creating the context for peace." How can that be acceptable given international norms on human rights and good governance and the responsibilities of the international community? It's not except for possibly nationalists and people who want to breed inaction and dismiss human interests in the world as 'not our problem.' I agree with Eric Reeves that both questions that Robert Zoelick has posed are critical tasks that need to be implemented. All missions in Darfur must lend themselves toward the achievement of these goals. Throwing our hands up in tribal conflicts is two beats short of a heart.

Today, we have to recover what is acceptable for people to live with dignity and to ask of the community at large to bring back the rhetoric of decent living. We have to reestablish a philosophy that demands that the rhetoric of anger, projected self-loathing and generational hate that doesn't allow people to live full creative and self-determined lives be challenged. To allow dehumanization to become status quo, is to live in a time that doesn't reward people for improving human existence on this planet.

In modern day societies, people are given the means to address those who harm them. They can go to court, they can seek mediation or arbitration, they can talk to advocates, they can call victim hotlines, and they can call the local authorities. Laws change in societies. They are as living and breathing as people in my opinion. Without new laws, without amendments to laws that no longer represent the people, the laws that govern the land become unfitting to the times that they are in. They are shelved in the archives of humankind's libraries for newer laws and their implementation to incorporate posterity so that groups of people do not feel unrepresented.

In a different part of the world, tribal disputes have been settled and indigenous people have gained ground on preserving their own needs and interests. One recent example, particularly regarding indigenous tribes' land use, is in Taiwan. In January 2007, Premier Su Tseng-chang announced that the Council of Indigenous Peoples would buy back land from Taiwan Sugar that originally belonged to indigenous tribes.

Darfurians have been allowed to own and distribute the land according to tribal customs while the rest of Sudan is governed by land-tenure law written in 1984. The DPA reviewed Sudan's land laws, by acknowledging the recognition and protection of tribal land ownership rights and historical rights to land, which was a government concession. The DPA looked at how to decrease tensions arising from competition between farmers and herders for access to pasture and water. It also discussed that there are inconsistencies between customary land tenure and major development projects, even while giving precedence to tribal authority over land. The DPA set up the Darfur Land Commission which gave legal standing to tribes. However, according to Alex de Waal, major criticism of the DPA on tribal land ownership includes that not all interests were present to make their case, and that distinctions were not made between hakura and tribal dar . Hakura is a land granted awarded by the Sultan to an individual. Dar is homeland awarded to a tribe for administrative purposes by the colonial authorities. I agree with Alex de Waal's argument in "Land in the DPA: A False Agreement?" that the communities needed to themselves participate in defining land tenure requirements, based on their actual livelihoods.

Victims in Darfur should be provided the opportunity for redress first and foremost from all those involved in various missions in the area. Community outreach efforts to battle the injustices should be made by the AU, UNAMID, human rights organizations, the Sudanese courts, the ICC and the international community and should include steps toward maintaining and creating a context for peace and ending the violence.

Sudanese ruling party accuses Islamist leader (Al-Turabi) of working with US, UK to oust Bashir

It's the second week of attacks on the Popular Congress Party's (PCP) leader Al-Turabi. This time, it's not from the newly re-elected Taha, who last week accused Turabi of being a major cause of the Darfur crimes that have become the focus of the ICC recently, which heightened attention on the conflict by international bodies. Darfur has been at war with itself for years with no resolution and little hope for improvement for those caught up in the war. This week Al-Turabi flew to Geneva to take part in a forum at the Africa Center for Human Rights. While on his visit to Europe, the National Congress Party (NCP) initiated an attack on him by accusing him of collaborating with the US through the JEM (the Justice and Equality Movement). This attack and news of his European travel are published in the NCP publication "Al-Rae'd." A few observers in Sudan have said that the ICC indictment is a bid to remove the NCP from power. Al-Rae'd also published that Al-Turabi is meeting in Europe to "coordinate support for the SPLM's chairman in the presidential elections." The NCP has called into question the timing of last month's announcement by the SPLM that Salva Kiir will run in the 2009 elections, linking it to Bashir's indictment.

Sudan agrees to allow UNAMID night flights in Darfur - envoy

Bad lighting at Darfur airports has delayed authorization for UNAMID to use Darfur airports at night. UNAMID this week received this much needed authorization from the Sudanese government. Rodolphe Adada, Joint Special Representative of the joint mission in Darfur, stated that UNAMID would help facilitate the necessary changes to the airport working with the Civil Aviation Authority. With one major obstacle out of the way, UNAMID now has the 24-hour capability of flight it needs.

Doctors withdraw from Darfur hotspots as US abstains from UN vote

Humanitarian vehicles and aid workers have been the target of many attacks in Darfur in the past year. John Holmes, the under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, confirms that the Sudanese government has not taken its responsibility to guarantee the security of those in the Darfur territory. These are the conditions while the UN Security Council renews its mandate of UNAMID. During the Security Council vote, the US abstained from the vote, directly as a result of the included reference to the delaying Bashir's indictment. On the ground conditions have not improved for victims in the war-torn region. In response to a series of violent attacks against Doctors Without Borders, the aid group has decided to pull staff out of Tawila and Shangil Tobaya areas of North Darfur. This will leave 65,000 people without medical assistance, according to the UN.

114 Ethiopian peacekeepers arrive to Darfur

As UNAMID renews its efforts to tackle outstanding issues in Darfur, it received more peacekeepers this week. The Ethiopian engineering force of 114 personnel arrived and is scheduled to work on building roads, bridges and camps for the deployment of the 5,000 Ethiopian troops. The engineering force has been deployed to Kulbus and Silia in Western Darfur. Upon arrival to Sudan, the 114 peacekeepers were authorized entrance despite a problem related to their missing passports.

Halima Bashir’s Darfur account describes rivalries between African and Arab girls

Halima Bashir, with Damien Lewis, has written a memoir of survival in Darfur called "Tears of the Desert." It's the first memoir written by a woman who lived through and was caught up in the war in Darfur. Refusing to be silent, Halima, who was born to the Zaghawa tribe, shares with readers her story of being a privileged Arabic girl who grew up to be the village's first doctor. The Zaghawa have often been the focal point of attacks by the Janjaweed. Bashir treated many of the traumatized rape victims. Her account also includes the very real rivalries between African and Arab girls and captures the underlying racism that continues to deteriorate the hope that tolerance can prevail between the cultures. Bashir describes the horror of being gang-raped by soldiers from the Sudanese army. The memoir provides a chance for victims, including Bashir, to not be lost behind the veil of silence that has gripped those who have been terribly treated while the state of affairs in Sudan allows for the army to deny the use of rape as a weapon and to limit any attempts by journalists or aid workers to shed light on these crimes against innocent people.

From my Perspective:

Halima Bashir is an extraordinary survivor for having moved to London and for continuing to shed light on the violence in Darfur. Giving voice to people who must feel forgotten and pawns to the caprice of those who chose to prolong the fight is a prerequisite to seeking peace and justice for those who have been forced to endure hostility. These accounts along with reports from UNAMID representatives and those willing to write from the region can only help undo the grip that war has taken on the region. Undoing the grip of war in this region requires a shift in purpose amongst those who are involved in bringing a better life to those who must wonder if there will ever be a time that they can live beyond the horrors of war, that is, fighting for resources that are being used as tools of war and being denied the status of human beings, which is supposed to bring with it much more than indignity, horrible medical conditions, cultural contempt and intolerance. Now that Doctors Without Borders have left due to increased violence, can UNAMID request more medical assistance? Currently, medical services that are still addressing needs in Darfur include: Medical Care International, International Red Cross, International Relief Teams, Americare, MAP International, and a few other organizations.

Darfurians have been denied their right of shelter while being degraded to simple pawns in a struggle that has little to do with facilitating coexistence. Oral historians in ethnic wars have historically brought to light individual experiences that have led to emancipation. Yet, in the meantime in Darfur, the priority to allow for hate to be the preferred underbelly of discourse is palpable and needs to change. A focus on individual differences to create doubt and feelings of inferiority is the type of psychological warfare that has destroyed the will of those being subjected to the war.

Do tribal leaders understand that they must call into question the treatment of individuals, and move toward inter-tribal new conditions for a new agreement to build a society that substitutes development for racially motivated violence? As reintegration efforts have worked in previous civil wars, seeking a solution to help rivals who are determined to focus on differences and make issue out of participation in upcoming elections by party leaders should include diffusing the anger and negative reactions. Specifically, I call attention this week to the case of the PCP and NCP. Party newspapers may continue to breed hostility toward other factions, however, as we have seen, the upcoming elections and those who will seek office will come under closer scrutiny within Sudan.

Currently, the relationship between President Bashir and tribal leaders is complex. The denial that is fast becoming the tone of dialogue among Islamic leaders needs to continue to be studied to see its effect among the Islamic factions toward those who might seek election. Candidates may seek to build support to improve the conditions in Darfur and reach for solutions beyond the combination of decades of environmental causes to the conflicts for the nomads and the ethnic and tribal armed conflicts. They may end up being subjected to being accused of only pursuing certain interests of the rebel groups and tribes that they are associated with. They might be criticized for addressing the needs of the society beyond tribal character and therefore may cause concern among those who see any possibility of elections as a threat to their current tribal system. Do each of the rebel leaders, some of whom are not well-liked by tribes and ethnic groups in Darfur, still maintain a secessionist position or are they trying to work towards negotiations that decrease tensions and violence among the groups and peacekeepers? Will the current Sudanese government see that it must become accountable for its ongoing attacks on primarily land-tilling non-Arab ethnic groups and develop a better approach toward seeking to include the interests of the region in its authority? Finally, where will victims to the atrocities be given the opportunity to seek redress?

US officially extends protected status for Sudanese residents

Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff has justified the extension of the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to certain Sudanese nationals. The extension of the special status goes until May 2, 2010. The reasoning behind the extension is based on the fact that the conflict is ongoing and that the conditions that existed in 2004 that prompted the redesignation in October 2004 still exist. The US Immigration Act of 1990 granted nationals of designated countries TPS. As a result of a procedure established by Congress, the Attorney General can provide this status to aliens in the US who cannot return safely to their home country under certain conditions. TPS registrants can remain in the US and obtain work authorization. If they commit a crime, they may be deported. TPS does not lead to acquiring a green card. Bills pursuing permanent residence for those who have acquired the relief that the status brings to aliens have been shelved. Requirements for eligibility include having entered the country on or before October 7, 2004, and prohibits any individual who has either been a felon or has been found guilty of two or more misdemeanors. Approximately 500 Sudanese nationals are covered by the program.

Rebel groups must unite to reach lasting solution for Darfur – General Agwai

General Martin Luther Agwai, the Commander of UNAMID, told reporters that in order to achieve a lasting solution to the conflict in Darfur, there are a few prerequisites. First, the rebel movements must unify at the negotiating table. Secondly, the international community needs to continue to pressure the rebels as much as it has pressured the Sudanese government. The General is resolute and certain that both parties to the conflict should be put under "enough searchlight," rather than only one party bearing the pressure of answerability to the investigations.

In reviewing what has occurred to the four rebel groups that were part of the Darfur Peace Agreement in Abuja in 2006, the General reports that there are now close to 30 groups on the ground, and many of them without cohesion.

Finally, the General does not see that there will be a winner in the conflict through a military response. More exactly, international efforts should focus on providing UNAMID all necessary troops and equipment, particularly helicopters.

UNAMID, Sudan discuss security situation in Darfur volatile camp

In a message of hope to the Sudanese who have been displaced from their homes as a result of the ongoing conflict, Henry Anyidoho, UNAMID's Deputy Joint Special Representative, said that he intends that UNAMID will continue to address the much needed improvements in security for the IDPS at Kalma camp. In a visit to the Kalma camp, the representative has received reports of the deteriorating security situation in the camps. Arms and ammunition has been seized inside of the camp in July. Mr. Anyidoho met with South Darfur governor Ali Mahmoud to IDP Sheikhs at the camp, and members of the UN team and INGO's. They discussed solutions to address the security concerns. The Governor has expressed his willingness to cooperate with UNAMID and has invited UNAMID to develop a joint strategy to concentrate on issues in the camp. Talks included certain of measures that should be taken in searching for arms and weapons inside of the camp.

Sudan’s Taha accuses Turabi party of stocking Darfur conflict

This week, the seventh convention of the Sudanese Islamic Movement has brought with it a contentious incongruity in viewpoints of the re-elected Secretary General of the Movement and the Popular Congress Party (PCP). Known for his dislike toward the PCP and the leadership of Hassan al-Turabi, the newly re-elected Ali Osmem Mohamed Taha appealed to attendees that for the PCP's responsibility for war, displacement and disruption of developments in Darfur, the PCP should be sued. PCP leaders have recently turned down Bashir's call for reunification of the Islamic movement, calling it an attempt to stir up religious feelings to generate popular support to counter calls for Bashir's indictment. Taha clarified that the NCP does not wish to unify with the PCP and renounced the need to do so. In July, the PCP made a public statement that in place of Bashir indictment, the government should meet with non-signatory rebel groups and that those who are found guilty of Darfur crimes should be tried by Sudanese judges. Taha does not see the call for the unity of national ranks directed at the Sudanese Islamic Movement.

Victims of Genocide in Darfur: Past, Present, and Future

Eric Reeves reports the rise of malnutrition in Darfur with few prospects for improvement considering the horrible harvests and the increase in the price of food. The UN World Food Program cannot deliver full rations due to security concerns. In a detailed assessment of the current UN humanitarian official in Sudan, Ameerah Haq, Reeves finds that her fear of the Khartoum regime and news reporters has caused the deficiency in the broadcasting of the cases of malnutrition by the UN and INGOs. This has not helped those victimized in the conflict in gaining better health or in their dire need for living in security and free of being terrorized. Reeves also points out Ashraf Qazi, the UN special representative of the secretary-general to Sudan and his silence on the urgency of matters on the ground. Rodolphe Adada, AU/UN Joint Special Representative for Darfur is another official identified.

In his scathing look at the recent responses to the conflict, Reeves calls many of the international organizations making public statements about the recent announcement for ICC indictment hypocritical and politically motivated. His report suggests that much is lacking in the public outrage to the announcement. In and of itself, Reeves suggests that this is what Khartoum prefers. Reeves also points out the lack of clarity and persuasiveness for the surrender of leaders of the genocidal acts when there is a huge probability that others in the chain of command will be pointed to easily.

This report points out that the AU, members of the UN Security Council, the Organization of Islamic Conference, the Arab League and the Non-Aligned Movement are all refusing to confront Khartoum. Without a more purposeful commitment to bring a peace process forward that will replace the flawed Darfur Peace Agreement and to reach beyond the differences of the temperaments of the rebel groups and what divides them, the integrity of the attempts at building peaceful conditions that could lead to coexistence is impeded. As Reeves states and I agree with, the world sees tribal differences superseding the common good for non-Arabs and Arabs.

The report continues with a look at Khartoum's response post-ICC announcement and the results of inadequate international action on the humanitarian situation in Darfur territory and in the camps. Finally, Reeves looks at the shortcomings of UNAMID citing a few reports including "Putting People First" conducted by the Darfur Consortium. The report asks a very pertinent question without an obvious answer: "Do we move ahead with the deployment of a force that will not make a difference, that will not have the capability to defend itself and that carries the risk of humiliation of the Security Council and the United Nations and tragic failure for the people of Darfur?"

From My Perspective:

International organizations, activists, reporters, governments and concerned citizens who cannot accept the lack of humanity in ethnic crimes of hate and persecution cannot be soft on crime. Clearly, intimidation can be used to govern the hearts and minds of people who will suffer just to survive and hope that in silence they can at least keep their own values and needs in tact. Survival mode isn't an acceptable form of living for most people. How can we permit that it be acceptable for Darfurians? Leaders must stop focusing on stealing the free will of people and the choices they need to make to live full lives, without the imposition by those who see free will as a threat to their leadership and choices.

I recommend that those who are in the position to let the world see what is going on, do that and stop using a policy of negligence and regret when it comes to seeking a way to improve the life of those who suffer most in a conflict. To conform with decision-makers in authority to sidestep providing Darfurians their right for redress and justice that should lead to the end of human suffering is not acceptable. We should not continue to postpone setting in motion the right conditions for tribal needs to be set aside in the interest of common good and individual rights. By working cooperatively with international bodies and putting to rest to the concerns of various international bodies that are playing it safe when it comes to confronting Khartoum and the various splintered rebel groups is to choose to work for the greater cause. The world cannot acceptcriminality and impunity among rebel groups, civilians and Khartoum. Amnesty is not a very acceptable option and neither is a continual hunt for those who will continue to shift the blame up and down the chain of command in Sudan. Much can be learned from the approaches used in successful UN missions, like UNAMSIL in Sierra Leone.

I recommend that the UN act on what the UNAMID Panel Reports find. In addition, no progress will be made without including leaders of factions in peace talks to understand their demands and to invigorate disarmament in exchange for participation in development efforts. The agendas of the warlords must be understood and handled appropriately, while providing Darfur factions, like the Sierra Leonian RUF, participation in disarmament and demobilization and a reintegration process with the opportunity to have them take part in the upcoming election would prove successful. It appears that the Darfur Peace Agreement did more harm than good and the fact that the security and safety of the people in the region is contingent on failed peace talks and the results that occurred - and the lack of studies of the implications of this chain of events - reveals the gamble that has been taken in Sudan. Without the Sudanese government and the UN working to gain the trust of these factions, the region will continue to resemble more of a failed state.

Approaching the peace process in a holistic manner that takes into account
the future needs of the society in the region in conflict must include disarmament as soon as possible, development efforts, and the mission should be contingent on reasserting efforts rather than on incremental progress that may not be reached in the short term given the lack of inclusiveness that is the cause of the conflict. The security and safety within the region cannot be sacrificed when the consequence of failed efforts are not part of a peacekeeping mission.

Thanks to Lopez Lomong, it's good to believe in the Olympics again

This year's Olympics, marred with politics and a predictable amount of activism has had its first personal story that carries much needed redemptive power. It's the power of a human being who has against all odds taken himself out of the strife of war and focused his energies on something that would give him personal value and a personal sense of accomplishment that people all over the world strive to achieve. This is the story of Lopez Lomong, who is a 1,5000-meter runner in this year's Olympics. Lomong is a Sudanese refugee who was abducted from a church at age 6 and forced to become a child soldier. He has been chosen by the US team to carry the American flag into the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics. The US Olympic Committee had that day almost "disowned" Joey Cheek, the speedskater who worked with Save Darfur. His work with Save Darfur resulted in China revoking his visa and preventing him from attending the Olympics.

Lomong spent 10 years of his life in a refugee camp. While watching the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, he vowed that he would run like Michael Johnson. In 2001, he wrote a heartfelt essay to a program that helped the "Lost Boys of Sudan" find decent homes. In his essay he described what he would do if he were allowed to live in the US. He received assistance and ended up living with a foster family in Tully, NY. Later, he attended Northern Arizona University. He proceeded to win titles. Last year, he took an oath to become a US citizen. This year, he is the flag bearer for the US, representing the US while making his dream come true.

The American team has really showed that it has compassion and can see past all of the controversy surrounding this year's Olympics. The world can witness this display of remarkable sportsmanship and team spirit. It also shows the strength of the human spirit in one runner, a world citizen from Sudan, Lomong, who didn't let his spirit die before he sent in an essay that brought him to become a US citizen and is now carrying a flag from a country that has historically celebrated individual freedoms.

Sudan appoints Darfur Prosecutor

As expected, Sudan has refused recognizing the ICC. In response, Sudanese Justice Minister Abdul Basit Sabdarat has appointed a special prosecutor to probe the war crimes in Darfur and bring cases to court. The prosecutor is Nimer Ibrahim Mohamed, who enters his new role amongst severe criticism of the Sudanese legal system. Defense representing Darfur rebels, Kamal Omar, says that the legal system needs reform. He has also called the appointment a media stunt.

The Sudan Media Centre has reported that the justice ministry will incorporate crimes listed in international law into new draft legislation. The ministry will also send legal teams to Darfur to monitor the situation on the ground. In addition, the AU is creating a list of top lawyers to work with the government after the ICC accusation in order to investigate the Darfur crisis. It is understandable to have misgivings about Sudanese promises to try war criminals as a result of its past record. As it is, time will tell as will international attention.

New batch of Russian peacekeepers fly to Sudan

On August 4th, Russia made its contribution to UNMIS with 10,000 peacekeeping troops deployed to Sudan. It's not the first time Russia has assisted Sudan. The first unit of peacekeepers arrived in April 2006. The troops include 80 pilots and technical specialists. On August 8th, a second group of 40 servicemen will fly to Sudan. Their role in Sudan will include rescue operations.

Darfur force commander calls on Sudan to accept non-African troops

General Martin Luther Agwai called for the inclusion of non-African contingents among his UNAMID troops. In an article published in Al-Ahram, an Egyptian daily, the Nigerian general, wrote of the lack of proper equipment and international support. The article resembled the tied hands that General Romeo Dallaire experienced during his UNAMIR commission when he pled for logistical support and reinforcement and was refused by the Security Council. The difference is that at least in the case of Darfur, the Security Council has not reduced the troop size or waned as a result of the influence of countries, such as China, who oppose policies of intervention.

Along with citing the need for helicopters, Agwai noted that Resolution 1769 which authorized UNAMID did not exclude non-African countries from the force. Essentially, Agwai is addressing the insistence by Khartoum to not accept Western troops until all African options are drained. Agwai pointed out the limitations of the African countries that support UNAMID and requested outside assistance.

In his request, he asked that Khartoum show that it is doing everything it can to ease the crisis in Darfur and cites ways that they could prove that they are motivated toward sending a strong message of bringing peace to Darfur. He also noted that rebel groups do not represent the Darfurians who want peace. He requested that they show that they are serious about peace rather than prolonging a conflict that has included attacks on peacekeepers. His commitment to not allowing the recent deaths of peacekeepers go in vain shows the mark of a leader who is not willing to back down in a situation that has put UNAMID under the critical eye of UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon and the international community.

FACTBOX - Key excerpts from U.N. council resolution on Darfur

Last Thursday, as expected, the UN Security Council renewed its UNAMID peacekeeping mission. The Security Council also agreed to suspend pursuing the indictment of Sudan's president. Points that are key in the approved resolution are as follows:

• Urges the Sudanese government to bring to justice perpetrators of crimes against civilians
• Notes the AU's request that the Security Council use its power to suspend any indictment of al-Bashir
• Notes the intention to consider the potential developments after the ICC July 14th accusation of Bashir of masterminding the genocide in Darfur
• Reiterates concern for the decreasing security of humanitarian personnel
• Reiterates that a military solution is not an option
• Demands that all parties cease hostilities and commit to a long-term cease-fire

My Perspective:

This week will be one that the world will remember. Israeli President Shimon Peres posted a peace song on a website. Can you imagine if the President of Darfur this week put a peace song on his website? Apparently the Israeli President’s favorite theme is peace. The song is called “Ray of Hope.” This week, after reading articles about the renewal of the UNAMID, the needs of UNAMID General Agwai, non-African peacekeeper deployment, and Olympian Lomong, I thought it would be fair to consider what motivates world leaders. Apparently the theme of peace is Peres' interest. What are the favorite themes of other world leaders? What makes them tick? Is it 'outsmarting the other guy'? Is it self interest and gain at other people’s expense? Is it spite? Is it to invoke fear in others? Is it to divide people so that isolation prevails? Is it to be destructive? Is it to be constructive? Is it to get people to bridge their differences? Is it to let people know that life is what it is and that to believe in more is pointless? What motivates every day people, those who represent them or are in conflict?

Motivation is what Lopez Lomong has. He has transcended the tribal disputes of his homeland. He has chosen not to pick sides and to make his dream a reality. In Darfur and other conflict zones, people are forced into ways of thinking to prove what only prolongs conflict. Instead, Lomong chose sportsmanship and a belief in perseverance and accomplishment. He chose to escape a world of bitter rivalries. Lomong beat all odds and chose to become something amazing and make it to the Olympics. In his lifetime he has made it to Beijing and carries the American flag.

This commentary might be a little saccharine laden for a few. I'll take that chance in a world where we see images of war in our media everyday and read stories of people who seem to be treading a road filled with obstacles to a good life put up in front of them or of their own making. What can change the motivations of those who are in the position to bring to citizens opportunities to succeed and fail and a life worth living? Or will leaders continue to falter and show their support in advancements in science and technology but still be left wondering how to use their abilities toward a peaceful coexistence?

UN to renew Darfur peacekeeping mandate

A UN Security Council resolution to redouble efforts to end a 5-year humanitarian disaster in Darfur is set for a vote today. The resolution will include wording that reiterates the AU's concerns that the recent ICC move to indict the Sudanese president has the potential of derailing the peace process. It also secures readiness by the Council to discuss suspending the indictment in the interest of peace. Sudan's UN Ambassador finds the resolution acceptable. The ICC recent move was referenced as a condition of renewing the mandate by nearly half of the Security Council. The resolution also expresses the Security Council's "deep concern for the decreasing security of humanitarian personnel." The resolution demands an end to civilian attacks. Out of a planned 26,000 troops, only 9,500 troops and police have been deployed. This has been due to Khartoum's insistence that the peacekeepers be Africans. Equipment and helicopters are still urgently needed. The resolution calls on UN member states to fill this need. The target date for full deployment by the UN is unknown, however the UN hopes to have be 80% of the way there by the end of the year. The resolution is a crucial step toward making UNAMID functional.

Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the United Nations Secretary-General and UN Webcast TV Video

With international concern being focused on what is going on in Darfur since the ICC call to indict the Sudanese President, UNAMID has reported that there have been 33 confidence-building patrols, five night patrols, and continued escorts of humanitarian assistance. UNAMID's General Agwai has called for an investigation into the bombings in North Darfur. UNAMID reported a robbery of the Medicine Sans Frontiers clinic where $9,000 were stolen. They reported the blockage of an escort convoy operation over the weekend. As far as sharing the Secretary General's stance on the UNAMID force, Spokeswoman Michele Montas said that Ban Ki Moon has been "deeply disappointed" in the force and that he has acknowledged that deployment has fallen far behind schedule.

The Security Counil discussed the draft resolution yesterday and is expected to vote on it today.

UN split over Darfur peace force

The UN Security Council has been deep in discussions about extending the mandate of a joint African Union-UN mission to Darfur, which expires today. South Africa and Libya want to include language in the mandate regarding the delay of ICC charges against the Sudanese President. Russia and China also want to delay the moves against Bashir. EU countries see little change in the behavior of Khartoum. The Sudanese Ambassador to the UN, Abdalmahmood Abdalhaleem has said that the politically motivated decision by Ocampo is unfair, unjust and an affront to Africa. He has said that Sudan is being unfairly singled out by Ocampo. Finally, he has called Ocampo, "a screwdriver in the workshop of double standards."

Sudanese court sentences 8 to death over Darfur rebel attack

Eight members of the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) were handed death sentences after being found guilty of counterterrorism. They were sentenced to hang. Judge Muntasim Mohamed Saleh presided at the special court in Khartoum North. In response to the May 10th attacks on Omdurman and Khartoum, Sudan set up four special courts to try those suspected of the attack. Defense attorneys have claimed that the special courts are unconstitutional and lack guarantees for their clients' legal rights. Kamal Omar, one of the defense attorneys, has called the courts "political" and "not independent." Appeals are expected. JEM members hail from the tribes that have been under attack - the Masalit, Fur and Zaghawa. Bashir has granted amnesty to 89 juveniles who were arrested following the attacks.

ICC Sudan decision disruptive to peace -China paper

As was expected, China's top official newspaper printed that the ICC indictment of Bashir could disrupt the peace process. The People's Daily stated that the Darfur crisis "has not been caused single-handedly by a certain leader, but by the joint force of various political, economic, cultural and environmental factors over a long period of time." They also stated that the indictment added uncertainty to the peace process. The commentary predicts that this could push the Sudan government in the opposite direction of finding a resolution for the conflict through consultations. They predict also that it could cause rebel groups to take a tougher and more non-compromising stance. It concluded that attempts to disrupt or block the peace process should be avoided by the international society.

From My Perspective

When Uganda was faced with ICC indictments of its leaders, the Uganda government still was ready to hold talks with the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA). Since the LRA showed its intention for peace, government representatives expressed that it wasn't the international community's problem, especially not The Hague's. This strengthened nationalism. Some analysts saw the moves in Uganda by the ICC as a pursuit of political gain, not with the intent to gain peace for the people caught in the war. The ICC came under intense scrutiny for its Ugandan approach to justice. As some have noted, and I agree with, although justice and peace can be complimentary, believing their reciprocal correlation can also be misleading.

Consider how justice is pursued. It's a lot of finger-pointing. In a complex situation where many parties are part of the reality of a conflict, in the end more time is spent gathering evidence about someone's guilt than addressing the grievances among the parties and reaching consensus to improve the quality of life of those suffering. It's righteous to pursue justice, but how do the victims in Darfur feel closure for the cruel and unusual aspects of war that they have had to endure while prosecutors spend their days putting their cases together to put away suspects who have been rounded up for prosecution? Where does the peace deal fit in?

No doubt these are difficult issues, and in the Uganda case it appears that the result of the ICC's investigation was increased international support for the peace talks.

Amnesty is a reality of conflict resolution in many international conflicts. In South Africa, leaders were given amnesty as part of the truth and reconciliation process so that they might end apartheid. As long as they disclosed their politically motivated crimes, this allowed South Africa to move toward a post-conflict society.

In the ICTJ's assessment mission to Mozambique, the ICTJ found that victims made comments about some of the worst offenders being the victims themselves for having been abducted and forced to kill. Many found that their priority was family and community healing, not becoming witnesses in criminal cases. According to the ICTJ, the use of transitional justice tools in Mozambique have gone largely overlooked. Why? The international community did not see efforts by communities and churches to launch projects to heal and reintegrate as part of a national program.

Peace processes are fragile, and if one interest group continually supersedes the interests of another, it will not lead to a peaceful solution. There needs to be an understanding of the interests and motivations of the parties to the conflict and also implementation of previous agreements. Not an ongoing debate on starting from scratch in terms of reaching some sort of resolution. Why isn't the international community trying to come to a deal with the rebels and the Sudanese government? China was pressured to do so and has shown that it has taken steps in doing so. Many people who have been affected by war outside of the West are not motivated by seeking accountability or prosecution. Instead, they seek a process that allows them to express their remorse, their grievances and seek forgiveness and formal apologies. To them, incarceration is not usually a high priority. Often, prosecutions prolong the conflict and continue the suffering for those who have had enough. People need to heal. They need closure not to see images of war that they have experienced in all the media around them as the international community puts justice above victims' rights to not live in fear or in a hostile oppressive environment.

Arab Analyst Says ICC Strengthened Bashir, Worsened “Victims’ Tragedy”

Al-Hayat, a London-based newspaper published on Monday this commentary by a regular contributor, Abdallah Iskandar. His main points deserve attention. One of those points is that the regional organizations, especially the AU and the Arab League, will not easily support indictments for fear of this being a precedent for other member’s nations in terms of their human rights and good governance track records. Another important point is that Bashir’s regime’s tight grip on the country isn’t something to be dismissed. ICC Prosecutor General Luis Moreno-Ocampo’s use of pressuring Khartoum does nothing to weaken Bashir and it leaves the victims in Darfur more vulnerable as international organizations head out for fear of being caught in the cross-fire. Finally, rebels and those who oppose Bashir have gotten the wrong message. The rebels will see any gestures or actions toward internal peace negotiations questionable with the international pressure to pursue his indictment. As Iskandar mentions, this could lead to more armed conflicts.

Russia: UN may want to suspend ICC action on Bashir

Russia has recognized the AU’s appeal to the Security Council to put on hold the ICC decision to accept the court’s chief prosecutor’s call for an indictment. Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Vitaly Churkin told reporters that the Security Council should be attentive to the appeals. He has also stated that Russia should not be the one initiating the suspension process. However, he did point out that there is “a lot at stake in terms of peacekeeping in eastern Africa, and in terms of the future of Sudan.”
Russia is not a party to the ICC. Neither are the US or China. To clarify what Article 16 of the ICC statute states, basically it states that the Security Council can pass a resolution suspending ICC investigations or prosecutions for a one year.

Adadas and Moussa Discuss Cooperation and Peace in Darfur

Last week, an emergency meeting of Arab Foreign Ministers in Cairo on the issues of cooperation between the AU and UN was held. This week, AU-UN Joint Special Representative for Darfur, Rodolphe Adada, met with Arab League Secretary General, Amr Moussa. Previously, Moussa had consulted with Al Bashir and top Sudanese officials regarding an Arab League initiative to resolve the current crisis after the recent ICC charges against Bashir. The result of the meeting was conveyed by Adada, who told reporters that the Mission is determined to lend all support to the new Chief Mediator for Darfur, Djibril Bassole. He reassured Moussa that the AU-UN Joint mission will be carried out in Darfur and that protection will be offered to the civilian population on an ongoing basis. The two also discussed the new troops that will be sent in by the end of the month to strengthen UNAMID efforts. The recent indictment by the ICC is totally separate from the mandates of UNAMID.

Sudan to Set Up Darfur Human Rights Abuse Courts – Arab League

In response to recent calls by the ICC to have Bashir charged with war crimes, Sudan has agreed to set up special courts to try alleged human rights abuses in Darfur. UN and Arab League officials will monitor the special courts.

From my Perspective

Although the international community continues to cry foul about the human rights issues and good governance issues in Sudan, the international community misses an opportunity to use transitional justice solutions other than criminal prosecutions that involve commissions, security reform, dialogue, and building incentives toward reconciliation. Efforts should complement one another. Creating alarming signals to rebel groups doesn’t this purpose. An approach must foster reconciliation between warring parties and still address the violations in such a way that improves the society in Sudan and doesn’t put innocent victims at greater risk. Equally, the international community’s efforts toward helping the victims in Darfur will be more readily met by working with the local justice measures within Sudan. Each society chooses its own path. Although there is a fundamental belief that hate crimes against any one group of people cannot be condoned, we must learn from past interventions and avoid repeating avoidable mistakes to be more effective.

UN to withdraw non-critical staff from Darfur

On Monday, Sudanese President Bashir was formally charged at the ICC at
the Hague with genocide and crimes against humanity. Reprisals on the UN
are looming after the indictment of Sudanese President Bashir. Attacks
have occurred, including one last week by Sudanese militias on a team of UN
blue helmets. Seven peacekeepers were dead.

It is expected that there will be violent reactions to the indictment of
Bashir, as he has a lot of support among his country’s majority Arab
population. The national Congress Party warned of more violence and
bloodshed. The anger is being directed at the UN. Secretary General Ban
Ki-Moon has stated that the ICC made their decision independently and that
the UN must respect the independence of the judicial process. Critical UN
personnel in humanitarian and peacekeeping roles will stay.

China in a deep dilemma as Sudan’s Bashir faces charges

Beijing’s interests in Sudan are putting China in a dilemma. China has key energy and political stakes in Sudan. They also have an interest in helping Darfur in its peace efforts. The sudden announcement by the ICC prosecutor has interrupted China in its efforts. As of Tuesday, China has not responded to ICC prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo’s announcement of charges. There are consequences. He Wenping, an African expert at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, says, “China’s peacekeepers will be threatened, this will impede China’s space to mediate over Darfur and encourage dialogue between Sudan and the West.” A few experts have speculated on how China may respond. I agree with Shi Yinhong, an international security expert at Renmin University in Beijing that Beijing will call Ocampo’s decision to target Bashir unwise, weigh reactions of other major players and will not lead any opposition.

Protest against ICC forces UN staff to stay at home

UN has urged hundreds of staff to stay at home on Tuesday as more protestors demonstrate. Pro-government and those who typically oppose Bashir are backing him against The Hague-based ICC. There have been no senior officials in attendance.

However, Sudanese Vice President Ali Osman Mohamed Taha has called the ICC move “irresponsible, illegal and unprofessional.” He believes it is a good way to prevent Sudan from being a normal member of the international community.

The AU’s reaction is that it is a display of African officials being targeted and therefore unacceptable.

Wade wants Darfur probe halted

International leaders have begun to voice their concerns about the recent charges pressed against Bashir. Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade has asked that the ICC freeze its Darfur investigation for a year in response to the response within Sudan. He has stated that if the prosecution continues, the situation will worsen and plunge into chaos. Judges will decide in the next few months about the arrest warrant for Bashir.

From my perspective:

The move by the ICC has the potential of strengthening the Islamic movement and increasing violence in the region. This is counterproductive to efforts in the regions to maintain peace and security. It has the potential of jeopardizing UN and international efforts in Sudan and destabilizing relations. The international community has been reaching out to Darfur and has been trying to foster discussions between the warring rebel groups and the government. The ICC has not been successful in enforcing international law in Sudan in the past. It seems that once again the people who will be most affected by this move were not considered and that the conflict has been trivialized and oversimplified. The importance of reaching a peaceful solution rather than impose the priority of legal action has been sidestepped. This action can polarize the region. The protests are good indicators of the division that this action will take rather than increasing efforts toward bridging the divides between conflicting parties.

This week I posted several articles that focused on constructive steps toward democracy in Sudan, reaffirmation of the need for peace in Sudan by the Sudanese President and efforts toward forging dialogue between the rebel movements and humanitarian organizations. Also, in the news, is the trial of Mr. Abdul Aziz Ashur, a member of JEM, a suspect of the attacks on Khartoum.

Mr. Abdul Aziz Ashur is being charged under criminal law and anti-terrorism legislation. His defense attorney, Satie Mohamed al-Haj, calls the formation of the special court unconstitutional and that it goes against his client’s legal rights. Terrorist charges have been made against 39 suspected rebels in the attacks and Human Rights Watch has asked for action since rebels were complaining of mistreatment.

Formation of the Anti-Terrorism Special Courts set up by Sudan’s government in response to the May 10, 2008 attacks have been criticized by Human Rights Watch. The reason for the criticism has been that the courts do not meet the minimum international fair trial standards. The Courts were created under Sudan’s 2001 Anti-Terrorism Law. Lawyers have complained that they have limited or no access to the clients and that the court proceedings are arbitrary. Sudanese law states that a defendant can be convicted on the basis of confessions made in detention or during coerced interrogations.

The Special Court in Khartoum has refused defense lawyer’s access to clients and assigned the cases to a legal aid lawyer. Another violation of international law noted by HRW is that the defendant’s right against self-incrimination has been stripped. Filing of cases must be within seven days of the judgment, which HRW states isn’t enough time for an appeal.

Special courts in Sudan have been set up in the past to fend off UN demands that Sudan hand over Darfur war crimes suspects to an international court.

In another story, the British Foreign Minister David Milibank has expressed the UK’s readiness in hosting peace talks in London. However, there are contradictory statements being made by Miliband’s Sudanese counterpart Deng Alor about Britan’s role in helping Sudan gain stability and what was discussed with the British Foreign Minister.

In another story, The Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue in cooperation with the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) will hold a 3-day workshop for Darfur rebel movements. The Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) and the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) Unity Command will attend. The goal of the workshop is to facilitate greater awareness of key humanitarian related issues and reach a commitment to ensure improved protection of civilians and humanitarian organizations in Darfur. Various UN agencies will also participate.

Additionally, this week, Sudan’s parliament approved a new electoral law. The Comprehensive Peace Agreement called for elections no later than 2009, but efforts to implement have been delayed. The new law benefits women and introduces proportional representation. This will allow a parliamentary voice to vulnerable areas. The law has the support of the SPLM, but it criticized the gender segregation and concern about the marginalization of the east and Darfur. The SPLM deputy secretary general, Yasser Arman, shared that unless the Darfur situation is improved there is a threat to fair and democratic elections. He suggests a neutral election commission.

Finally, on the occasion of the 19th anniversary of the National Salvation Revolution, President al-Bashir in a televised address reiterated his commitment to reach a peaceful solution to the Darfur issue. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the peace agreement and to completing the Western Salvation Highway and the expansion of medical services. He shows dedication to free and fair elections. He also showed that he is interested in ongoing talks with all the political parties and he noted that civil society organizations want to reach a lasting comprehensive solution. He made a call out to some neighboring countries to regard the principles of positive interaction, good neighborliness, nonintervention and safeguarding Sudan’s sovereignty.

With the advances of technology comes more means to communicate; more people around the world are interconnected. We have the ability to get in touch with people anywhere about matters that involve us all. World events affect us in many different ways. We are firmly in the information age and as such, I started a blog about Darfur and how the tragedies that occur there should not be buried by the news of the day - the news cycle. The tragedies in Darfur have been ongoing. The WIP is featuring my article Social Networking Site Put into Action: Darfur Blog on Myspace Encourages Awareness this weekend. This article is a jumping-off point for me to begin sharing my blog with readers of The WIP by cross-posting my Darfur coverage on the WIP TALK. By blogging about international events, people can stay informed and help those who feel helpless, stuck in conflicts, have a voice. It also helps build a community of people who are dedicated to staying informed about the conditions of Darfur victims.