Sudan: New strategy - South Darfur State sets a plan for illegal arms collection - IDPs in Kalma camp not allowed to practice military activities

Photo: "In Sudan - the beautiful desert" by Douglas Bratthall (Source: Yahoo!)

Kalma IDP camp is a political and military camp to serve SLM-Nur

IN a press conference held last Monday (09 August) South Darfur Governor, Abdul Hamid Musa Kasha, described Kalma IDP (internally displaced persons) camp in South Darfur, western Sudan as a political and military camp to serve Abdul Wahid Al-Nur's Darfur insurgent faction SLM.

Kasha revealed that a joint meeting between the Sudanese government and the joint UN/AU peacekeeping Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) resulted in not allowing IDPs in Kalma camp to practice any military activities besides establishing a joint committee to investigate on the recent incidents.

He added that his government had prepared a plan for disarmament in three stages and taken the necessary measures to transfer Kalma camp to another location.

"The state government has developed a plan to collect arms voluntarily from inside the camp to establish social peace," Kasha said on Friday in statements reported by the official news agency SUNA.

He further presented an overview of the state government’s efforts to upgrade essential services of interest to the citizens in the areas of electricity and water.

For the first time a Sudanese government —State minister for humanitarian affairs Mutrif Sideeq — visited the camp with the head of the peacekeeping mission on Wednesday (11 August) and attended a meeting held between Ibrahim Gambari and six delegates who sought refuge at the UNAMID police center in the camp.

The six IDPs representatives told Sudan Tribune that Gambari tried to convince them to accept joint patrols by the Sudanese police and the peacekeepers.

New strategy for the settlement of the Darfur issue

Vice President, Ali Osman Mohammed Taha vowed to take into consideration the visions and proposals of all political parties in the new strategy for the settlement of the Darfur issue.

In his address to the consultative meeting he held with political forces for solving the Darfur issue at the Friendship Hall, the Vice-president affirmed that the government focuses on and will take on board positive contributions and opinions for achieving peace in Darfur. "We shall take on board the opinion of the Darfurian people and all the political forces in any consultation that lead to a comprehensive solution ", he said. The Vice-president described talk about excluding Darfur insurgent factions in any solution is not accurate.

Objectives and priorities of the new strategy

Dr. Ghazi Salah Addeen, the Presidential Advisor and the in-charge of Darfur File said that the objectives and priorities of the new strategy involve

(1) the achievement of a comprehensive settlement (2); enhancement of security; (3) the establishment of a political process in Darfur(4); acceleration of voluntary sustainable return of the displaced; (5) procedures to be taken by government for the execution of development projects; (6) and the organizing of viable consultations among the various components of the Darfurian society; (7) the implementation of justice for all; (8) the restructuring of humanitarian operations and directing them from relief aid to development; (9) the attraction of regional and international support; (10) the enhancement of reconciliation process amongst the people of Darfur; (11) working with our partners to conclude a final and comprehensive peace agreements.

Dr. Ghazi said that a copy of the strategy was handed over to General Salva Kiir, the First Vice-President of the Republic and President of Southern Sudan government and a copy will be submitted to the Council of Ministers. "It is a flexible strategy and not a rigid one and it can be amended according to developments", he said.

Many thousands of IDPs from Kalma remain unaccounted for

Meanwhile, a news report published by AFP on Saturday (14 August) says Sudan must stop blocking aid agencies from reaching more than 80,000 displaced Darfuri refugees at Kalma camp, the UN's undersecretary general for humanitarian affairs, John Holmes, said on Saturday, quote

"Many thousands of IDPs from Kalma remain unaccounted for.

"We need immediate access so we can respond to the needs and conditions of those remaining there. We also need to find out how many people have left, and where they have gone, in order to provide relief to them too.

"The United Nations has been in close contact with the relevant Sudanese authorities to restore access ... but until today progress has not been forthcoming.

"Five international NGOs and UN humanitarian agencies which have humanitarian programmes in Kalma are still being prevented from entering the camp by local authorities on the ground, despite recent reassurances that such restrictions had not been imposed."

60 cases of malnutrition in Kalma IDP camp

According to a news report by Miraya FM published yesterday (Sunday, 15 August) UNAMID has revealed 60 cases of malnutrition in Kalma IDP camp, as a result of deteriorating humanitarian situation. Also, the UNMAID stated in a press release that, sound of shooting are heard within the camp pointing out the relocation of majority of IDPs, who sought shelter near UNAMID's local Community Policing Center, to other parts of the camp.

No barring of humanitarian workers from accessing the needy

This morning (Monday, 16 August), Sudan Vision Daily Newspaper reported that the Government of Sudan has "slammed the claims made by the UN's humanitarian chief, John Holmes, to the effect that the government had barred relief officials from entering Kalma IDPs camp". Furthermore, Sudan's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Mo'awia Osman Khalid, is quoted as saying, "No barring of Humanitarian workers from accessing the needy."

The report also reveals that "a joint meeting is to be held between the Government of West Darfur State and UNAMID Chief, Ibrahim Gambari within the coming two days with the aim of consultation on Hamedia Camp of Zalinji, besides, studying the situations of all other camps in the state. Also, that the State's Humanitarian Aid Deputy Commissioner, Ismail Adam reported that the meeting targets more coordination and consultation between the two sides on what had been agreed upon in respect of disarming in the camps and protection of people therein. He noted that all camps witness stable security and humanitarian situations".

Finally, news just in from UNAMID - Daily Media Brief dated Sunday, 15 August 2010 - excerpt:

"The security situation in Kalma Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in South Darfur remains unpredictable, with sporadic shooting over the weekend. UNAMID troops continue to patrol the area, 24 hours a day. The majority of IDPs who sought shelter near UNAMID’s local Community Policing Center have relocated to other parts of the camp, suggesting an improvement in the security situation.

Humanitarian conditions in the camp continue to deteriorate. Fuel stores in the camp have been exhausted, and consequently motorized water pumps have ceased to function. Contrary to reports on 12 August, there are two functioning clinics in Kalma camp, albeit with limited resources. One of the clinics yesterday informed UNAMID of over 60 cases of malnutrition".

SOURCES: See 6 reports here below by Sudan Vision Daily, AFP, Miraya FM, Sudan Tribune, UNAMID.

South Darfur State Sets a Plan for Illegal Arms Collection
Report from Sudan Vision (SV) Daily News Paper - Official Website (Khartoum)/via Embassy of the Republic of the Sudan, Washington D.C.
Date: Tuesday, 10 August 2010/ via ISRIA - excerpt:

South Darfur Governor, Abdul Hamid Musa Kasha said that the security situations are 90% stable, pointing out that the government is serious in applying rule of law.

Government announces new strategy on Darfur peace process
Report from Sudan Vision (SV) Daily News Paper - Official Website (Khartoum)
/ via Embassy of the Republic of the Sudan, Washington D.C.
Date: Wednesday, 11 August 2010 - excerpt:

Vice President, Ali Osman Mohammed Taha vowed to take into consideration the visions and proposals of all political parties in the new strategy for the settlement of the Darfur issue.

Sudan blocking access to Darfuri refugees: UN
Report from AFP (Khartoum)
Date: Saturday, 14 August 2010 - excerpt:

"We need immediate access so we can respond to the needs and conditions of those remaining there. We also need to find out how many people have left, and where they have gone, in order to provide relief to them too. The United Nations has been in close contact with the relevant Sudanese authorities to restore access ... but until today progress has not been forthcoming. I am extremely concerned about the welfare of the IDPs (internally displaced persons) at Kalma camp, to whom we have not been able to deliver relief for 13 days," said John Holmes, the UN's undersecretary general for humanitarian affairs. "If access is not urgently restored, the situation risks deteriorating rapidly," he added.

Sudan: 60 cases of malnutrition in Kalma camp, UNAMID says
Report from Miraya FM / via ReliefWeb
Date: Sunday, 15 August 2010

South Darfur to disarm Kalma camp
Report from Sudan Tribune
Published: Sunday, 15 August 2010 - excerpt:

August 14, 2010 (KHARTOUM) — The South Darfur state will launch a campaign to retrieve voluntarily weapons in the restive Kalma camp, the governor said this week. Governor Abdel Hamid Moussa Kasha declared considering to remove the camp and relocate the IDPs in other areas. He said that the camp has become a den of criminals and outlaws. He stressed the proximity of the camp from Nyala airport and railway "increases the security threat for UNAMID planes".

UNAMID Daily Media Brief - Sunday, 15 August 2010
Report from United Nations - African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID)

EL FASHER (DARFUR), Sudan, August 16, 2010/ via APO:

Security situation update
The security situation in Kalma Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in South Darfur remains unpredictable, with sporadic shooting over the weekend. UNAMID troops continue to patrol the area, 24 hours a day. The majority of IDPs who sought shelter near UNAMID’s local Community Policing Center have relocated to other parts of the camp, suggesting an improvement in the security situation.

Humanitarian conditions in the camp continue to deteriorate. Fuel stores in the camp have been exhausted, and consequently motorized water pumps have ceased to function. Contrary to reports on 12 August, there are two functioning clinics in Kalma camp, albeit with limited resources. One of the clinics yesterday informed UNAMID of over 60 cases of malnutrition.

UNAMID patrols
UNAMID military forces conducted 76 patrols including routine, short-range, long-range, night and humanitarian escort patrols covering 66 villages and IDP camps.

UNAMID police advisors conducted 119 patrols in villages and IDP camps.

Govt. Dismisses Holmes' Claims of Blocking Humanitarian Access to Kalma Camp
Report from Sudan Vision Daily News Paper - Official Website (Khartoum)
Date: Monday, 16 August 2010 by Mohammed Abdallah - excerpt:

The Government has slammed the claims made by the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, John Holmes, to the effect that the government had barred Relief Officials from entering Kalma IDPs camp.

Foreign Ministry spokesman, Mo'awia Osman Khalid, said, "No barring of Humanitarian workers from accessing the needy." And further stating that the government respects international agreements and commitments and works for integrating the roles of the international partners for accomplishing the humanitarian objectives set for Darfur.

The spokesman underlined the importance of respecting the sovereignty and integrity of the country, adding that the government is properly discharging its responsibilities towards its people.

The government stressed the importance of adherence to security controls, stipulated in the humanitarian agreements; on the part of UNAMID and relief workers own safety against all risks. [...]

- - -

Darfur's tribes dance during a rally to support Darfur peace talk



Photo: Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir waves to Darfur's tribes during a rally to support the Darfur peace talk, in Khartoum 06 August 2010. (Reuters/Mohamed Nurdldin Abdallah)



Photo: Members of Darfur's tribes perform a traditional dance during a rally to support the Darfur peace talk, in Khartoum 06 August 2010. (Reuters/Mohamed Nurdldin Abdallah)
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UNAMID: Sudan govt's dealing with Kalma camp incident contradicts signed deal - Large regions of Kalma deserted

AN inter-agency mission carried out from 4 to 8 August and covering eleven villages near Nyala, South Darfur, western Sudan estimates that around 450 to 500 households have arrived there from Kalma IDP camp, South Darfur.

The United Nations-African Union mission in Darfur (UNAMID) team recommended immediate humanitarian intervention to all eleven villages, even those where no Kalma refugees were found, due to dire conditions, especially in sanitation, health and education.

The head of UNAMID, Ibrahim Gambari, said that threatening and setting a date for handing over culprits of the Kalma camp incidents does not conform to signed deals between the mission and the Sudanese government.

At a press conference held in Khartoum at the beginning of this week, the Governor of South Darfur State, Abdel Hamid Musa Kasha, disclosed the government's intention to remove Kalma camp described as military base and political platform for Abdel Wahid Al-Nur.

There was an exchange of gunfire at Kalma camp, a U.N. spokesman said on Wednesday. "The situation in Kalma remains tense and insecure," U.N. spokesman Martin Nesirky told reporters. "There were reports of gunfire overnight." It was not clear who fired the shots, though there has been sporadic fighting between supporters of Darfur peace talks in Doha and those who oppose the talks.

The Department of Peacekeeping Operations says that the Joint AU-UN Special Representative, Ibrahim Gambari, and the UN Humanitarian and Resident Coordinator, George Charpentier, travelled with Government interlocutors to the Kalma camp on Wednesday, 11 August 2010 for meetings with senior authorities in Nyala. They discussed the need to find amicable and practical solutions to resolve the situation and ensure protection for all displaced people and civilians.

SOURCES: Five reports here below.

SUDAN: Thousands struggle to survive as Kalma aid cut off
Source: United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs - Integrated Regional Information Networks (IRIN)
Date: 12 Aug 2010 /via ReliefWeb - excerpt:

NAIROBI, 12 August 2010 (IRIN) - Humanitarian access to Kalma, the largest settlement for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Sudan's Southern Darfur State remains cut off ten days after the government blocked UN agencies and the last five NGOs still operating in the camp from distributing food and medical aid to an estimated 82,000 IDPs. [...]

At a press conference held in Khartoum at the beginning of this week, the Governor of South Darfur State, Abdel Hamid Musa Kasha, disclosed the government's intention to remove Kalma camp described as military base and political platform for Abdel Wahid Al-Nur.

More gunfire at Darfur camp, aid workers barred: UN
Source: Reuters by Louis Charbonneau
Date: Thursday, 12 August 2010 at 14:17 GMT - excerpt:

UNITED NATIONS - There was an exchange of gunfire at a refugee camp in Sudan's western Darfur region that has been the focus of a tense standoff between international peacekeepers and Khartoum, a U.N. spokesman said on Wednesday.

Sudan has demanded that U.N.-African Union peacekeepers in Darfur (UNAMID) hand over six Darfuris accused by Khartoum of instigating clashes in South Darfur's Kalma Camp in late July that killed at least five people. UNAMID has refused to do so.

"The situation in Kalma remains tense and insecure," U.N. spokesman Martin Nesirky told reporters. "There were reports of gunfire overnight."

It was not clear who fired the shots, though there has been sporadic fighting between supporters of Darfur peace talks in Doha and those who oppose the talks.

UN - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Date: Wednesday, 11 August 2010 /via ISRIA
The following is a near-verbatim transcript of today’s noon briefing by Martin Nesirky, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General. Excerpt:

The situation in Kalma in Darfur remains tense and insecure, according to the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO). There were reports of gunfire overnight. The Department of Peacekeeping Operations says that the Joint AU-UN Special Representative, Ibrahim Gambari, and the UN Humanitarian and Resident Coordinator, George Charpentier, travelled with Government interlocutors to the Kalma camp today for meetings with senior authorities in Nyala. They discussed the need to find amicable and practical solutions to resolve the situation and ensure protection for all displaced people and civilians.

Darfur/UNAMID Daily Media Brief
Source: United Nations – African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID)
El Fasher Darfur, western Sudan
Date: Wednesday, 11 August 2010 /via APO Thursday, 12 August 2010:

Security situation update
The general security situation in and around Kalma Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in South Darfur is relatively calm, but remains unpredictable. UNAMID troops continue to patrol the area, 24 hours a day.

A UNAMID team which visited Kalma camp yesterday has reported that large regions of the settlement appeared deserted, the inhabitants having left for either the nearby UNAMID Community Policing Center, Nyala or one of the surrounding villages.

An inter-agency mission carried out from 4 to 8 August and covering eleven villages near Nyala estimates that around 450 to 500 households have arrived there from Kalma. The team recommended immediate humanitarian intervention to all eleven villages, even those where no Kalma refugees were found, due to dire conditions, especially in sanitation, health and education.

UNAMID patrols
UNAMID military forces conducted 102 patrols including routine, short-range, long-range, night and humanitarian escort patrols covering 93 villages and IDP camps.

UNAMID police advisors conducted 145 patrols in villages and IDP camps.

Government's dealing with Kalma Incident contradicts signed deal says UNAMID
Source: Miraya FM
Date: Wednesday, 11 August 2010 20:11
Last Updated Thursday, 12 August 2010 10:43

The head of the United Nations/African Union mission in Darfur (UNAMID), Ibrahim Gambari, said that threatening and setting a date for handing over culprits of the Kalma camp incidents does not conform to signed deals between the mission and the Sudanese government.

In the same context, Mutrif Siddiq, the state minister of humanitarian affairs confirmed that the demands made by the government of southern Darfur are as follows, handing over of the perpetrators of the Kalma incidents, re-locating the camp, rehabilitate those who fled the camp to other areas.

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Sudanese President Bashir directs governors in Darfur to expel foreigners who do not support the elected government

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir waves to Darfur's tribes during a rally to support the Darfur peace talk, in Khartoum Friday, 06 August 2010. (REUTERS/Mohamed Nurdldin Abdallah)

President Bashir Threatens To Expel International Aid Agencies In Darfur
Source: SRS - Sudan Radio Service
Date: Monday, 9 August 2010

(Khartoum) - President Omar al-Bashir has threatened to expel international aid agencies in Darfur.

The threat follows UNAMID’s unwillingness to hand over six IDPs accused of instigating violence in the Kalma camp in South Darfur.

Al-Bashir made the declaration during a recent ceremony held for Darfur leaders in Khartoum on Saturday.

[Al Bashir] “We would like to tell those who have come to help us in Darfur, be it the international NGOs, UNAMID, or the AU, that they should support the elected government, they should remember that there is an elected president and governors and representatives in the newly-elected government. They should know that Sudan has not collapsed. I would therefore like to direct the governors in Darfur to expel the people who are not going to mind their own business. If you came across the likes of those please just expel them the same day and then notify me later.”

Al-Bashir assured the people of Darfur that the government will end the war in the region and promised security in the area.

[Al-Bashir] “We have decided to end the war in Darfur and to secure all the three states of Darfur, and now, as most of you might have heard, we have a new strategy through which we are trying to solve the Darfur crisis not just to take Darfur back to what it was before the war but to make it an even better Darfur.”

However the head of the hybrid peacekeeping operation said on Sunday that UNAMID’s refusal to hand over six IDPs wanted by the government should not damage relations between his mission and the host country.

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Sudanese Embassy: Kalma camp violence meted out by Abdel Wahid Al-Nur's SLM against LJM in retaliation for LJM attending Darfur peace talks

The recent violence in Kalma IDP camp, South Darfur, western Sudan was one clearly meted out by Abdel Wahid Al-Nur's SLM against the LJM in retaliation for the latter's participation in the Doha peace efforts to bring about an end to the restiveness and the humanitarian crisis.

Source: Embassy of the Republic of the Sudan, WASHINGTON
Press Release: via PRNewswire-USNewswire
Date: Monday, 09 August 2010
Kalma Camp is Meant to Provide Security for Civilians, Not to Serve as an Operation Base for Bandits

The latest incident in Kalma camp and the subsequent response of the UNAMID to the Governments decisive actions are not only a classic demonstration of the international community's refusal to hold criminals accountable for their actions but also it's subtle way of reinforcing the culture of obstruction. It is a bewildering phenomenon that has pervaded throughout the duration of the Darfur crisis and has only emboldened them in their intransigence, thus prolonging the suffering of the people of Darfur to this very day. The recent violence was one clearly meted out by Abdel Wahid Al-Nur's SLM against the LJM in retaliation for the latter's participation in the Doha peace efforts to bring about an end to the restiveness and the Humanitarian crisis.

The UNAMID is supposed to be in these camps to guarantee the safety of the people from heinous acts and criminals of the kind. It is there to facilitate peace by ensuring that no danger befalls the civilians. Yet not only has it failed to fulfill this mandate, it is now protecting the very perpetrators of this violence. The UNAMID has refused to handover Al-Nur's supporters who killed the LJM supporters and in the process driving over 25,000 civilians away from the camp. How does it defend itself? It risks being seen as a conspirator. It is not the first incident either. This particular camp has been a safe haven and base of operations for armed bandits who have continually jeopardized the security of the residents. It is these weapons used in such senseless acts that the government sought to confiscate two years ago when it entered the camp with a warrant only to be fired upon. Scores of innocent civilians were killed in the crossfire. And just a day afterwards, a peacekeeping aircraft was shot down in that camp. Those that are serious about security have to wonder what the point of maintaining such a lawless camp is.

These reprehensible acts are preceded by other egregious atrocities which should have left the world under no illusions as to the real motives of some of these so-called rebel forces. And as Sudan has long insisted, the international community and UNAMID have given SLM Al-Nur and his likes a license to act with impunity by their refusal to hold them accountable for the crimes they commit.

The government has a responsibility towards its people, and a commitment to the resolution of the crisis through peaceful means. Any such acts of obstruction should not be tolerated by anyone who professes to be pursuing peace in Sudan and they will certainly not go unanswered by the Government. The culprits have to account for their actions in front of the Sudanese national judicial system. The Sudanese authorities and all self-respecting institutions expect cooperation and facilitation of this legal process, not obstruction based on prejudices. Sudan is serious about achieving peace and reemphasizes its cooperation with any body working to positively facilitate these efforts.

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SLM Abdel Wahid Al-Nur gunning for UNAMID Chapter 7 - Joint GOS-UNAMID committee for Kalma, S. Darfur

NOTE to self. This is a vent. In his pursuit for the presidency of Sudan (or is it France's pursuit?) United Nations peacekeepers with Chapter 7 mandate, fighting onside with the "rebels", is what western Sudan's rebel group leader Abdel Wahid Al-Nur has been gunning for all along. I know because, here at Sudan Watch over the past six years, I have chronicled many of his utterances.

Note that the below copied extract from Sudan Tribune today shows how he works like a worm, baiting the USA, France and UK into fighting his war for him. I say, bug off to Israel (or Russia or Iran) Al-Nur, you idiotic, greedy, fat, two-faced, forked-tongued, lying, yellow bellied, lily livered, lowlife French Israeli puppet. You make my blood boil. Sorry, bad mood. There is so much misinformation and propaganda flying around, it is making me feel sick. If the BBC is not fully reinstated in Sudan, this blog is going on strike.

Darfur/Kalma focus of discussion between Government, UNAMID
Source: United Nations – African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID)
Date: Monday, 09 August 2010 (via APO)

(KHARTOUM, Sudan) - The Joint Special Representative of the African Union – United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), Professor Ibrahim Gambari, was received in Khartoum today, at his Ministry, by the Sudanese State Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Mutrif Siddiq, where the discussed the situation in the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp of Kalma, near Nyala, in South Darfur.

The JSR thanked Dr. Siddiq and reiterated the Mission’s willingness and commitment to work with the Sudanese Government in a cordial and cooperative manner in challenging situations, in the interests of justice and the people of Darfur.

Professor Gambari expressed the Mission’s regrets and his personal concern over the recent events in Kalma and Hamadiya IDP camps in South Darfur and the negative impacts these might have on the future of the peace process.

He stressed that, while the issue of the six persons who sought refuge in the UNAMID Community Policing Center in Kalma was both serious and delicate, it should not be allowed to create an unnecessary breakdown in communications or mar the existing cordial relations between the Government of the Sudan (GoS) and the African Union – United Nations in Darfur.

The Minister was also briefed on the 5 August talks between the Government and the JSR, during it was agreed to form a joint GoS – UNAMID committee to deal with all issues surrounding the events in Kalma and proffer suggestions to find an amicable solution. Professor Gambari further pledged UNAMID’s commitment to work with authorities to resolve the issue of the proliferation of arms within the camps.

Noting that the Mission has increased the number and robustness of its patrols, as well as the number of military and police personnel deployed to protect the population, the JSR appealed that immediate access be granted to INGOs and humanitarian agencies to provide IDPs with urgently needed assistance, particularly given the current rainy season. He also urged the Government to allow those persons who left the camp to return if they so wished.

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Kalma issue should not impact negatively relations between UNAMID and Sudan - Gambari
Source: Sudan Tribune
Date published: Monday 9 August 2010
Written by: Unknown - Sunday, 08 August 2010 (KHARTOUM). Extract:

Rebel leader Abdel Wahid Al-Nur reiterated today his call for the international community to change the mandate of the UNAMID to Chapter 7 in order to enable the largest peacekeeping mission in the world to provide full protection to the civilians in Darfur camps.

Al-Nur said his movement is not against peace in Darfur he also said he exerted the needed efforts to cool down the tension among his supporters to avoid more escalation, he added that the world has the responsibility to prevent the "Final Solution" that Khartoum government implementing on the ground.

The rebel leader said the poor humanitarian situation implies an urgent action from the UN and the international community particularly the USA, France and UK. He also called to put pressure on the government to prevent any further atrocities against the IDPs. He accused the government of preparing to undertake more repression in the camps.

He said Khartoum’s militias cause violence in the camps and the government at the same time hampers the activities of aid groups under pretext of insecurity.

Joint AU-UN chief mediator for Darfur Djibril Bassolé in Paris meeting with Sudan rebel leader Abdel Wahid Al-Nur

ACCORDING to Sudan Tribune, the Paris based SLM rebel leader Abdel Wahid Al-Nur made a statement (see below) following a meeting with the Joint Chief Mediator Djibril Bassolé yesterday (Wednesday, August 4th) in the French capital to discuss the latest developments in Darfur following the recent clashes between two groups of the IDPs in Kalma camps over their representation in the peace process.

"We had a very positive and constructive meeting," Al-Nur is quoted as saying.

Note that the statement included urging the UN Security Council to consider changing the mandate of the UNAMID from Chapter 6 to Chapter 7.

Here is the report from Sudan Tribune published Thursday 05 August 2010:

Darfur rebel leader praises UNAMID refusal to handover Kalma residents
August 4, 2010 (PARIS) — Darfur rebel leader, Abdel Wahid Al-Nur today praised the refusal of the joint peacekeeping mission to handover six residents of Kalma camp in South Darfur State wanted by the local authorities after bloody clashes last week.

"We welcome the decision of the hybrid peacekeeping operation (UNAMID) to not handover six Internally Displaced people – five men and one woman—sheltered in its office in Kalma camp," Al-Nur told Sudan Tribune today.

11 people were killed when clashes broke out last week between supporters of Nur and partisans of another rebel group Liberation and Justice Movement (LJM) which is conducting talks with the Sudanese government in Doha. The first group contests the IDPs representation by the second group.

The Paris based rebel leader made his statement following a meeting with the Joint Chief Mediator Djibril Bassole on Wednesday in the French capital to discuss the latest developments in Darfur following the recent clashes between two groups of the IDPs in Kalma camps over their representation in the peace process.

"We had a very positive and constructive meeting," Al-Nur said. He further stressed that Bassole reassured him about the UNAMID commitment to protect civilians in western Sudan including the six people wanted by South Darfur authorities.

He also said he had spoken all the day with different local leaders urging them to cool down the tension inside the camps and to work hard restore calm and reconciliation between the residents pointing out that "only Sudanese government benefits from such divisions".

Al-Nur said wanted civilians might face torture and killing if they are handed to the Sudanese authorities following a formal demand by South Darfur Governor Abdel Hamid Musa Kasha.

He also said the Sudanese justice is not independent and totally under the control of the government stressing that their handover would create more troubles in the camp.

The rebel leader accused the government of working to dismantle the camp as part of its new policy called "domestication of the peace process".

He further urged the UN Security Council to well consider changing the mandate of the UNAMID from Chapter 6 to Chapter 7 and to give the largest peacekeeping operation the necessary means to fully protect the civilians in the restive region.

Speaking with Sudan Tribune from Kalama camp, two residents who requested not to mention their names said the security forces surround the camp and prevent entry of food to the camp. They also said that women who go outside the camp to bring food to their children are stopped and not allowed to return home.

The UNAMID Daily Media Brief reported today that "no organizations have been allowed to deliver humanitarian aid" to the IDPs in Kalma camp.

Another resident from Kass camp in South Darfur said some one thousand of militiamen gathered today outside the camp and paraded around the area to intimidate the residents.

The same source said they received reports from Zalingei in West Darfur saying some 50 people were arrested by the security service there.

Kalma camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) is located near Nyala, the capital of South Darfur, and is home to about 90,000 people, many of whom are supporters of Abdel Wahid Nur. Government forces targeted the camp in a raid that killed dozens of residents in August 2008. (ST)

Click here to read Sudan Tribune report, 31 July 2010: NCP approves new “domestication” strategy on Darfur.

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Report by Radio Dabanga published Wednesday, 04 August 2010:

Darfur rebel chief calls on ICC to investigate camp violence
(DOHA ) - Dr. Tijani Sese strongly condemned the events that occurred last week in Kalma and Hamidiya camps for displaced people. The camps witnessed fighting among the residents, allegedly between factions loyal to Tijani Sese’s rebel coalition and Abdel Wahid Al Nur’s faction, according to initial UN reports. At least ten were killed.

Sese said that what happened is a crime that requires investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC). In an interview with Radio Dabanga, Sese appealed to displaced people to remain calm and to stop all forms of abuse against each other, which he said weakens the Darfur issue. Sese denied, however, that the Liberation and Justice Movement was involved in the events.

S. Sudan Immigration Office: Foreigners registration period extended to Aug 12th

A report published here at Sudan Watch on Sunday, 01 August 2010 received many hits and tweets from people all over the world. The report by SRS (Sudan Radio Service) first published on 27 July 2010, announced that foreigners in southern Sudan who failed to register by August 4th will be arrested.

Today, SRS reported that the Government of South Sudan (GOSS) has extended the deadline for registration for another seven days, to August 12th. Here is a copy of the report in full:

Report from SRS (Sudan Radio Service) :
Foreigners Registration Period Extended By Immigration Office

Thursday, 05 August 2010 - (Juba) – The GOSS Ministry of Internal Affairs has extended the deadline for the registration of foreigners in southern Sudan for another seven days.

Speaking to SRS in Juba on Thursday, the Director of the South Sudan Migration Office, Brigadier Elia Kosta, said that the extension of the registration period was because some of the foreigners have not yet registered.

[Elia Kosta]: “We announced that all the foreigners’ presents in Juba should come for registration within a two week period. The two weeks ended yesterday and we found that some foreigners were still coming for registration because there were some documents that we need from them. So they went to bring those documents. That is why we decided to extend the period for seven more days. This is to enable them finish their registration process. So far we have registered more than 2 thousand people.”

Kosta warned legal action would be taken against people who do not register by Thursday 12th August.

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UPDATE: Report by Radio Miraya - Wednesday, 04 August 2010 20:17:

S Sudan immigration office extends registration of foreigners
The southern Sudan Immigration and Passport office has extended days for registration of foreigners for one more week. The deadline expired on Wednesday; the extension is to give more time for all foreigners to register.

Speaking to Radio Miraya the Director of Immigration and Passport, Colonel Elia Costa Foustino, said that over two thousand foreigners have registered between January and August this year. Foustino said those who fail to register within the extended days will be arrested and deported.

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Snippets from reports at the website of SRS - Sudan Radio Service

Thursday, 05-Aug-2010

• Draft On The National Anthem For The South Begins
  The southern Sudan National Anthem Committee has embarked on drafting a seven-stanza National Anthem for the south.
  
  
• Floods Hit Shendi Town in the Northern State
  Floods in Shendi town in Northern State have destroyed homes and brought movement to a standstill.
  
  
• Ministry Of Commerce And Industry says Investors Not Developing S.Sudan
  After the signing of the CPA, the government of southern Sudan opened up the region to investors, but some GOSS officials have expressed disappointment over the contribution of the private sector to the lives of southern Sudanese.
  
  
• Sudan Sports Latest

Wednesday, 04-Aug-2010

• CPA Partners Agree To Hold Referendum As Scheduled Despite Border Disagreements

  The National Congress Party and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement have agreed to hold the coming referendum in the south as scheduled.

• 17 Killed In Yirol During Cattle Raids
  Speaking to Sudan Radio Service by phone from Yirol on Wednesday, the commissioner of Yirol East county, Atien Majak Malou, said that the attack occurred in Yalli payam.
  
  
• Bandits Kill Five In Unity State
  Five people have been killed and nine others wounded in Koch county in Unity state by an armed group of bandits on Monday night.
  
  
• Bashir Travels To Libya To Boost Bilateral Relations
  President Omer Hassan al-Bashir began a two-day official visit to Libya on Wednesday.
  
  
• Fresh LRA Attacks In Nzara
  A fresh attack by the Lord’s Resistance Army has left one person killed, four injured and many displaced in Nzara county, Western Equatoria state.
  
  
• EU Appeals For More Funds To Avert Food Insecurity In Sudan And The Sahel

  The EU commission for Humanitarian Aid is appealing for an additional 40 million Euros to respond to the worsening food crisis in the Sahel and Sudan.

  Speaking to SRS from Brussels on Wednesday, the head of unit in charge of Sudan and the Central Africa, Andrea Koulaimah, confirmed that the commission has made a request to the EU budgetary authorities.

  
  
• NCP Members Defect To SPLM In Lakes State
  The chairperson of the National Congress Party in Lakes state Thomas Buai Malek and about 30 party members have defected to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement.
  
  
• Sudan Sports Latest

Tuesday, 03-Aug-2010

• Dispute Over Abyei Borders

  The SPLM has strongly criticized a statement made by the presidential adviser Salah Gosh, doubting the ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration concerning the Abyei boundary.

  Over the weekend, Gosh told SUNA that the ruling made by the PCA to redefine the boundaries of Abyei area did not resolve the dispute.

• GOSS To Provide Media Freedom Ahead Of Referendum

  The Government of Southern Sudan says it will help media to provide information about the referendum.

  GOSS Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Barnaba Marial Benjamin, addressed a press conference in Khartoum on Monday.

  
  
• Federal Minister Urges Press To Report Responsibly Before The Referendum

  The minister of cabinet affairs in the national government says that the remaining period towards the referendum will be the most crucial time in Sudan’s history.

  Doctor Luka Biong made the statement in a press conference in Khartoum on Monday.

  He urged the media to play its role in educating the people of southern Sudan.

  
  
• UNAMID Meets Government To Improve Working Relations
  Following recent clashes in Kalma IDP camp in South Darfur, the Government of Sudan has reverted to monitoring the activities of the mission.
  
  
• No Foreigners In Public Offices In Southern Sudan, Says GOSS Ministry

  The senior policy advisor in the ministry of commerce and industry in the GOSS is calling on the regional government to stop employing foreigners in government offices.

  The 21-year old civil war has left the region with lack of proper manpower to develop the south since 2005.

  Isaac Bior told SRS in Juba last week that employment of the foreigners is against the constitution of the country and threatens stability.

  
  
• GOSS Minister To Be Buried In Lainya
  Doctor Samson’s body will be taken to his home in Lainya county on Thursday for burial after a series of commemorations in Juba.
  
  
• Sudan Sports Latest

Monday, 02-Aug-2010

• Separation May Cause Havoc, Says Vice President

  The 2nd vice president of the republic, Ali Osman Taha, says that the possible independence of southern Sudan will create havoc and chaos.

  In response, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement said that secession is a much better choice for southern Sudanese who lost about 2.5 million people when the country was united.

• Stalemate Over Abyei Referendum Commission

  The Ng’ok Dinka from the oil-rich area of Abyei have said that they will resort to the Security Council of the United Nations to ask them to intervene and demarcate the Abyei boundary.

  The Abyei Chief Administrator, Arop Deng Arop Kuol addressed a press conference in Khartoum on Sunday.

  
  
• Government May Impose Restrictions On Movement Of UNAMID

  The government of Sudan has warned that if UNAMID goes against the rules and regulations of the country, movement restrictions will be imposed on them.

  However, the advisor to the minister of information in the government, Doctor Rabie Abdulaati, says that an agreement was reached between the government and UNAMID.

  
  
• Revenge Killings In Cuiebet, Jonglei State

  At least 9 people were killed in Cueibet county in Jonglei state after clashes erupted on Friday.

  Speaking to SRS on Monday from Cueibet, the county commissioner, Madhang Majok, said that the killings came as a result of revenge attacks between different communities.

  
  
• UNAMID Peacekeepers Perish In Accident

  Six UN peacekeepers died on Sunday when the land cruiser they were driving in was involved in a head-on collision with a tanker carrying gas in Nyala, the capital of south Darfur.

  Nyala police director, General Fateh el-Rahman Osman confirmed the accident to SRS from Nyala on Sunday.

  Eyewitnesses say that the tanker was coming from the opposite direction when it collided with the UNAMID landcruiser.
  
  
• South Sudan Mourns GOSS Minister Of Agriculture

  The Government of Southern Sudan has announced three days of mourning following the death of Agriculture minister Dr Samson Kwaje in Nairobi on August 1.

  The late Samson Kwaje died after he went into coma for three weeks after suffering kidney and lung complications.

  The late Dr. Samson Kwaje will be remembered for the key role he played as one of the negotiators of the Sudan peace talks in Kenya that successfully culminated in the signing of the historic Comprehensive Peace Agreement in January 2005.

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