- The security agents of the Government of Sudan is continuing to harass and detain Darfuri activists in Darfur. the latest are 5 activists were detained more than a week ago and their whereabouts unknown. A Darfuri told Radio Dabanga that this is a tactic from the Government.
- An UNAMID peacekeeper is killed while his convoy was attacked by six to eight armed men in El Geneina on Monday 28 September. The incident took place on the road between the UNAMID camp and the city around 18.45 in the evening told UNAMID spokesperson Noureddine Mezni. The convoy existed of civilian and military personnel and was escorted by the police. According to eyewitness, the convoy was fired by the men. Three peacekeepers were injured and taken to the hospital in Nyala. One of them did not survive.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Day 175 - Sept. 29th
- An eyewitness from Abu Shouk Camp, near El Fasher, South Darfur, told Radio Dabanga that government forces came to the area. Apparently the armed rebel groups had already left the area before the government troops arrived. He further said there was a lot of looting in the market, which was completely plundered. He confirmed to Radio Dabanga that women were raped by government soldiers. Houses in four villages in the area were looted.
- From Radio Dabanga:
After the killing of the Tunjur Chief Omar Adam Ishag (Al Sarough) and his wife in Abu Shouk Camp near El Fasher, the security forces started a wave of arrests.Seventeen IDPs are in prison since the 8th of August. The relatives went to the Human Rights Department of UNAMID. They requested the immediate release of the detainees and appealed to the governement the possibility to visit them and to give them a lawyer. They expressed fears that the IDPs might be tortured and harassed.
- A leader in an IDP camp in Nertiti (in Gabal Marra area) accused the Government of Sudan of using food and humanitarian aid as a weapon to punish IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) who are viewed as anti GoS by depriving them of food and humanitarian aid. The Leader (Sheikh) told Radio Dabanga that his camp now suffers from lack of food, blankets, and other humanitarian aid.
- From Radio Dabanga:
After the killing of the Tunjur Chief Omar Adam Ishag (Al Sarough) and his wife in Abu Shouk Camp near El Fasher, the security forces started a wave of arrests.Seventeen IDPs are in prison since the 8th of August. The relatives went to the Human Rights Department of UNAMID. They requested the immediate release of the detainees and appealed to the governement the possibility to visit them and to give them a lawyer. They expressed fears that the IDPs might be tortured and harassed.
- A leader in an IDP camp in Nertiti (in Gabal Marra area) accused the Government of Sudan of using food and humanitarian aid as a weapon to punish IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) who are viewed as anti GoS by depriving them of food and humanitarian aid. The Leader (Sheikh) told Radio Dabanga that his camp now suffers from lack of food, blankets, and other humanitarian aid.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Day 174 - Sept. 28th
- More displaced people from Korma area are arriving at Abushouk and other camps around ElFassher. Eyewitnesses are telling horrible stories of atrocities committed by the Government of Sudan (GoS) and its militias in Korma. One eyewitness said to Radio Dabanga that he gave up seeing justice in this life. He said that the Army and militias entered the town without a fight. Yet they immediately started looting the market, assaulting the civilians, and raping women. He told Radio Dabanga that his family was beaten, his wife was assaulted after throwing her baby on the ground, his 90 years mother had a gun barrel in her mouth so as not to scream, all children were slapped on their faces, and he was forced to watch all this while beaten. He said was spared killing because the damage caused to him is worse than been killed.
Leaders of the camp told Radio Dabanga that there is no help from humanitarian aid organizations to the new arrivals. They told Radio Dabanga that those who managed to reach the camps say that there are many people coming this way but the GoS is preventing them from reaching IDP camps.
- The four IDP(Internally Displaced Persons) camps around Zalengi (West Darfur) complaint to Radio Dabanga that since the end of Ramadan (a week ago) militia gunmen enter every night into their camps and fire rounds and rounds of bullets in the air in a terror campaign.
Leaders of the camp told Radio Dabanga that there is no help from humanitarian aid organizations to the new arrivals. They told Radio Dabanga that those who managed to reach the camps say that there are many people coming this way but the GoS is preventing them from reaching IDP camps.
- The four IDP(Internally Displaced Persons) camps around Zalengi (West Darfur) complaint to Radio Dabanga that since the end of Ramadan (a week ago) militia gunmen enter every night into their camps and fire rounds and rounds of bullets in the air in a terror campaign.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Day 172 - Sept. 26th
- In the deadly conflict in Darfur, the pro-government militias and the Army of the Government Sudan rob and loot the targeted villages. In the on going violence there are reports of killing of many owners and shepherds of livestock and their animals are taken by the pro-government militia. after attacking Korma, Ain Siro, Gafafil, Kafout, and Delil there are reports that in each incident and village that the Janjaweed and the army take the livestock of the victims. In the village of Delil (east of Kutum), eyewitness reported to their relative who lives in U.S.A. that their combined losses in the livestock was more than 5 "murahs". Each "murah" has about 100 counts.
This is another tactic which is used by the GoS to reward the Janjaweed and at the same time depriving the civilian survivals from any means of sustainable life.
This is another tactic which is used by the GoS to reward the Janjaweed and at the same time depriving the civilian survivals from any means of sustainable life.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Day 171 - Sept. 25th
- New attacks on Ain Siro in Darfur by the Government of Sudan (GoS) are reported. These news also reported by Radio Dabanga. A leader in a Darfuri rebel movement told Radio Dabanga that GoS is preparing to attack Gabal Maidobe in the far north of North Darfur.
- In a phone call from a Darfuri in U.S.A. in contacting his relatives in Kutum (North Darfur)he mentioned that there are reports of heavy aerial bombings east of Kutum. Also he said that he was informed of 36 incidents of rape in the village of Delil (in east of Kutum).
- In a phone call from a Darfuri in U.S.A. in contacting his relatives in Kutum (North Darfur)he mentioned that there are reports of heavy aerial bombings east of Kutum. Also he said that he was informed of 36 incidents of rape in the village of Delil (in east of Kutum).
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Day 170 - Sept. 24th
- More displaced people reach already crowded camps.
From Radio Dabanga:
The war in North Darfur has been renewed. The first displaced people have arrived from the battlefields in North Darfur to the capital El Fasher. The first group of people arrived on Tuesday in Al Salaam camp. Sudan Air Force is continuing aerial bombing of the area of Korma in North Darfur. UN-chief Ban Ki Moon condemned the fighting and said he is deeply concerned about the latest developments. Only a few weeks ago the UN declared the Darfur war as being ‘over and finished’.
The government Air Force is mainly targeting the positions of the Sudan Liberation Movement led by Abdel Wahid al Nur. The reports concerning Korma are contradicting each other. The government claimed it hat conquered the area while civilians (eyewitnesses) reported to Radio Dabanga incidents of rapes and pillaging of villages. But rebel soldiers and other civilians said that the government has no control over the town and surrounding villages. An eyewitness described the situation to Radio Dabanga as ‘tragic and complex'. People were dispersed and had to flee to the surrounding mountains seeking protection and safety. Civilians further told Radio Dabanga that a girl had died after being raped by gunmen, but more details could not be confirmed yet. Civilians described a worsening humanitarian situation caused by the military operations. People moved towards Tawila and El Fasher. Some told Radio Dabanga that they were hindered to move towards El Fasher. Local reporters of Radio Dabanga notified that villages were totally burnt down. The UN office OCHA organization said that it has no sufficient information on the humanitarian situation in Korma and it is still waiting for more information to evaluate the situation. According to the Chinese news agency Xinhua, the governor of North Darfur State Osman Mohamed Yousif Kibir stated that “there is no fighting.” At the same time he admits that ‘the army has been expanding the security base to cover Korma which has witnessed limited presence of the SLM, Abdul Wahid-faction,” the governor said. He added that ”The army entered the area to enable the internally displaced persons (IDPs) to return to their home areas,” Kibir explained. He also said that the army is currently taking control of the area and establishing security. Her said that is arranging ‘for the voluntary return of the IDPs’.
- Three displaced chiefs have been facing poor conditions while in detention in one of the police precincts of El Fasher. The leaders are Hussein Sago, Nimeiri Khamis, Abdel Rizeh Abdullah are facing tragic condition in their detention at El Fasher, centr division of police. An eyewitness told radio Dabanga yesterday that the three chiefs were arrested more than 2 months ago following immediately the killing of Tunjur tribe Chief Al Sarough (Abu Shok camp). Reports described their condition as deplorable indicating that they are staying in a narrow cell with no windows for ventilation and they are not allowed to eat the normal meals at the regular times. They are held in a deplorable sanitation conditions.
From Radio Dabanga:
The war in North Darfur has been renewed. The first displaced people have arrived from the battlefields in North Darfur to the capital El Fasher. The first group of people arrived on Tuesday in Al Salaam camp. Sudan Air Force is continuing aerial bombing of the area of Korma in North Darfur. UN-chief Ban Ki Moon condemned the fighting and said he is deeply concerned about the latest developments. Only a few weeks ago the UN declared the Darfur war as being ‘over and finished’.
The government Air Force is mainly targeting the positions of the Sudan Liberation Movement led by Abdel Wahid al Nur. The reports concerning Korma are contradicting each other. The government claimed it hat conquered the area while civilians (eyewitnesses) reported to Radio Dabanga incidents of rapes and pillaging of villages. But rebel soldiers and other civilians said that the government has no control over the town and surrounding villages. An eyewitness described the situation to Radio Dabanga as ‘tragic and complex'. People were dispersed and had to flee to the surrounding mountains seeking protection and safety. Civilians further told Radio Dabanga that a girl had died after being raped by gunmen, but more details could not be confirmed yet. Civilians described a worsening humanitarian situation caused by the military operations. People moved towards Tawila and El Fasher. Some told Radio Dabanga that they were hindered to move towards El Fasher. Local reporters of Radio Dabanga notified that villages were totally burnt down. The UN office OCHA organization said that it has no sufficient information on the humanitarian situation in Korma and it is still waiting for more information to evaluate the situation. According to the Chinese news agency Xinhua, the governor of North Darfur State Osman Mohamed Yousif Kibir stated that “there is no fighting.” At the same time he admits that ‘the army has been expanding the security base to cover Korma which has witnessed limited presence of the SLM, Abdul Wahid-faction,” the governor said. He added that ”The army entered the area to enable the internally displaced persons (IDPs) to return to their home areas,” Kibir explained. He also said that the army is currently taking control of the area and establishing security. Her said that is arranging ‘for the voluntary return of the IDPs’.
- Three displaced chiefs have been facing poor conditions while in detention in one of the police precincts of El Fasher. The leaders are Hussein Sago, Nimeiri Khamis, Abdel Rizeh Abdullah are facing tragic condition in their detention at El Fasher, centr division of police. An eyewitness told radio Dabanga yesterday that the three chiefs were arrested more than 2 months ago following immediately the killing of Tunjur tribe Chief Al Sarough (Abu Shok camp). Reports described their condition as deplorable indicating that they are staying in a narrow cell with no windows for ventilation and they are not allowed to eat the normal meals at the regular times. They are held in a deplorable sanitation conditions.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Day 169 - Sept. 23rd
- In a phone call yesterday from a Darfuri friend who lives in U.S.A., he told me that he learned from his relatives in Darfur that his village Gefafil (near Kutum - North Darfur) was attacked and burned by the Janjaweed last week. His grandma Dagla was among the dead. She was brutally killed along with his cousin. His grandma was 74 years old. He said he spoke with survivors from his village and other neighboring villages ( Um Liyanah, Garbah, Kaffout) who said that the Janjaweed were brutal and vengeful. The janjaweed and security agents were looking particularly for teachers. Some teachers were shot dead on the spot. The relatives told him that Teacher of the village who had refused to leave the village for years, Ustaz Alnueil, was shot dead. The survivors who managed to reach to an IDP camp told him that in their flight they saw many dead bodies scattered in the open in the destroyed villages along the way. The survivors told him that if you are "Zurga male" then you are dead without questioning regardless of your age.
(I have the name and phone # of the Darfuri who lost his village and relatives. He is upset with the silence of the international community and willing to speak out).
- A survivor, who is a resident of Korma but hiding in an undisclosed location now, told Radio Dabanga via mobile phone this morning that Government of Sudan continued til late last night (Tuesday September 22nd) its campaign of aerial bombings of Korma and the surrounding villages. He is appealing to the UNAMID, U.N., international communities, and U.S.A. to help the fleeing civilians who are now going hungry in the mountains and country side. He said the Government of Sudan is throwing more troops and Janjaweed in the area in the name of cleaning the Korma area from bandits and enemies of the State. The survivor said he himself has 8 young children and just ate their last meal made of last flour he has. The survivor said he has little water left and the Janjaweed are occupying all the wells. He said to Radio Dabanga that they can see Antonoves air-crafts dropping bombs on villages he knows very well. The survivor said he lost about ten of his relatives in this round of violence.
- Another survivor told Radio Dabanga that some civilians tried to flee to Tawila ( a town next to Korma) and to ElFasher (capital of North Darfur and where UNAMID is headquartered) but they were blocked. The survivor said many civilians fled to Gabal Sea mountain ( large mountain on the other direction of Jabal Marra mountains). The survivor said there were many villages burned down completely, he counted 3 villages that were completely burned down. He added that those who are trapped in the mountains will certainly face hunger.
Comment:
The targeting of teachers is a well designed plan from the Government of Sudan. Many Darfuri teachers have resisted the temptation of leaving or work as translators with the foreign organizations or news corporations, simply to stay and help the new Darfuri generations in getting education. The Government of Sudan wants to control illiterate people in Darfur. In this latest round of violence, I got many stories from North Darfur, South Darfur, Jabal Marra area, and Korma area all spoke about security agents and janjaweed asking about "Mudarressein" i.e. "Teachers". In some places the security agents have lists of names of the teachers.
The Government of Sudan knows exactly what it is doing, and is going forward in its plan of the "Final Solution" of the Darfuri problem. The sad question is: what is the plan of the international community, namely The United States of America, to counter the evil plan of the Government of Sudan?
( Is "NEVER AGAIN" still true??!!)
(I have the name and phone # of the Darfuri who lost his village and relatives. He is upset with the silence of the international community and willing to speak out).
- A survivor, who is a resident of Korma but hiding in an undisclosed location now, told Radio Dabanga via mobile phone this morning that Government of Sudan continued til late last night (Tuesday September 22nd) its campaign of aerial bombings of Korma and the surrounding villages. He is appealing to the UNAMID, U.N., international communities, and U.S.A. to help the fleeing civilians who are now going hungry in the mountains and country side. He said the Government of Sudan is throwing more troops and Janjaweed in the area in the name of cleaning the Korma area from bandits and enemies of the State. The survivor said he himself has 8 young children and just ate their last meal made of last flour he has. The survivor said he has little water left and the Janjaweed are occupying all the wells. He said to Radio Dabanga that they can see Antonoves air-crafts dropping bombs on villages he knows very well. The survivor said he lost about ten of his relatives in this round of violence.
- Another survivor told Radio Dabanga that some civilians tried to flee to Tawila ( a town next to Korma) and to ElFasher (capital of North Darfur and where UNAMID is headquartered) but they were blocked. The survivor said many civilians fled to Gabal Sea mountain ( large mountain on the other direction of Jabal Marra mountains). The survivor said there were many villages burned down completely, he counted 3 villages that were completely burned down. He added that those who are trapped in the mountains will certainly face hunger.
Comment:
The targeting of teachers is a well designed plan from the Government of Sudan. Many Darfuri teachers have resisted the temptation of leaving or work as translators with the foreign organizations or news corporations, simply to stay and help the new Darfuri generations in getting education. The Government of Sudan wants to control illiterate people in Darfur. In this latest round of violence, I got many stories from North Darfur, South Darfur, Jabal Marra area, and Korma area all spoke about security agents and janjaweed asking about "Mudarressein" i.e. "Teachers". In some places the security agents have lists of names of the teachers.
The Government of Sudan knows exactly what it is doing, and is going forward in its plan of the "Final Solution" of the Darfuri problem. The sad question is: what is the plan of the international community, namely The United States of America, to counter the evil plan of the Government of Sudan?
( Is "NEVER AGAIN" still true??!!)
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Day 168 - Sept. 22nd
- An eyewitness in ElFasher told Radio Dabanga that he counted 263 vehicles filled with Army and militias supporting the Government of Sudan. The eyewitness said that the convoy of the vehicles is headed out of ElFasher and headed towards Korma and Jabal Mara, where military activities still are going on. The eyewitness added that he saw two Antonove bombers take off from ElFasher airport and heading west (Korma and Jebel Marra direction). Elfasher is where UNAMID is headquartered.
- The night before, I was getting bad news from almost all Darfur (North, South, and West Darfur).
The UNAMID is turning blind eye.
- In North Darfur, in the area of Dereik, UNAMID Helicopter was almost hit by Antonove bomb. Eyewitness said the Helicopter immediately aborted landing and flew towards Kutum (large town north-west of ElFasher). UNAMID claim they get reports of such attacks from either rebels or other sources. This incident was one of many that UNAMID officials and pilots were eye witnesses to such government attacks, needless to say that the Government attack airplanes conduct their sorties from the same airports that are used by UNAMID. The officials can see GoS airplanes take off, loaded with bombs and return empty to refuel and reload with more bombs.
- In the town of Korma ( south of Jebel Marra and west of Alfasher), on friday and Suturday the janjaweed entered the town and deja vu all over again ( looting, killing, raping, and burning).
- Civilians in thousands (number put by more than 2 people I spoke with) were fleeing the villages around Jebel Marra, Ain Siero, and in the North Darfur in Donkey Housh area. Some fled to the already crowded IDP camps.
- This is supposed to be the happiest days in the year (End of Ramadan and beginning of Eid), yet Government of Sudan is determined to deprive Darfuris of any happy moment.
- Darfuris in Darfur see the GoS has a free hand in killing Darfuris with impunity, free hand more than before.
- The night before, I was getting bad news from almost all Darfur (North, South, and West Darfur).
The UNAMID is turning blind eye.
- In North Darfur, in the area of Dereik, UNAMID Helicopter was almost hit by Antonove bomb. Eyewitness said the Helicopter immediately aborted landing and flew towards Kutum (large town north-west of ElFasher). UNAMID claim they get reports of such attacks from either rebels or other sources. This incident was one of many that UNAMID officials and pilots were eye witnesses to such government attacks, needless to say that the Government attack airplanes conduct their sorties from the same airports that are used by UNAMID. The officials can see GoS airplanes take off, loaded with bombs and return empty to refuel and reload with more bombs.
- In the town of Korma ( south of Jebel Marra and west of Alfasher), on friday and Suturday the janjaweed entered the town and deja vu all over again ( looting, killing, raping, and burning).
- Civilians in thousands (number put by more than 2 people I spoke with) were fleeing the villages around Jebel Marra, Ain Siero, and in the North Darfur in Donkey Housh area. Some fled to the already crowded IDP camps.
- This is supposed to be the happiest days in the year (End of Ramadan and beginning of Eid), yet Government of Sudan is determined to deprive Darfuris of any happy moment.
- Darfuris in Darfur see the GoS has a free hand in killing Darfuris with impunity, free hand more than before.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Day 167 - Sept. 21st
- A child and a man have been injured at Hassaheissa displaced camp in Zalingei yesterday (Sunday) morning. After random shootings were heard at Hassaheissa, the camp inhabitants started to look for the cause of shootings. But sources told Radio Dabanga that the so called Central Reserve Police, locally known as Abutera together with some militia-members were firing randomly. For unknown reasons bullets hit the shoulder of a child and a man was injured in his chest. They both were transferred to Zalingei hospital for treatment .The displaced people were angered and denounced the action of the armed men. According the witnesses the shootings and threatening took place in front of some UNAMID peacekeepers.
- Security forces have arrested a student Eishag Adam, of the Secondary school in Abu Shok camp. He disappeared with the forces on Thursday morning, a relative informed Radio Dabanga. The relatives went also to the Human Rights department of UNAMID. They requested the immediate release of the student. They expressed fears that the student might be tortured and harassed. According to sources the security has the student still in detention in their premised of the southern section of the security.
- Security forces have arrested a student Eishag Adam, of the Secondary school in Abu Shok camp. He disappeared with the forces on Thursday morning, a relative informed Radio Dabanga. The relatives went also to the Human Rights department of UNAMID. They requested the immediate release of the student. They expressed fears that the student might be tortured and harassed. According to sources the security has the student still in detention in their premised of the southern section of the security.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Day 166 - Sept. 20th
- From Sudan Tribune:
18 people killed in recent government attacks in Darfur
Sunday 20 September 2009.
(PARIS) — Some 18 people are killed and 26 other wounded during attacks carried out by government army and militias on the positions of Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) of Abdel Wahid Al Nur near Jebel Marra this week.
Since the beginning of this month of September Sudanese army staged a series of air ground attacks on the position of the SLM-AW near Jebel Marra particularly in Ain Siro and Korma in North Darfur. This week the government troops attacked the rebel positions in Korma on Thursday and Friday.
The Sudanese army during the six-year-long conflict failed to dislodge the SLA- AW rebels from Jebel Marra, the highest region of the Sudan which inhabited by the Fur ethnic group. Also, since the start of the conflict many civilians and IDPs settle in the areas controlled by the rebel group saying they protect them from attacks by militias.
Hussein Abu Sharati the IDPs spokesperson on Saturday told Sudan Tribune that at least 18 civilians are killed during the attacks by the army and militias in 10 villages around Korma. He went further to say that the government backed militias killed the civilians deliberately despite the absence of rebels in the attacked villages.
"The number of the newly displaced civilians is over 5000 people, they went mainly to El Fasher Kutum camps," he said.
He also urged international humanitarian assistance to the displaced populations following this week adding that the humanitarian situation is very difficult.
"We make this appeal because we spoke with the UNAMID to provide shelter and food but they did intervene till now," Abu Saharti said adding "They are in dire need for relief and cannot wait more."
The areas held by the SLA-AW, like Korma and Jebel Marra generally, constitute "a no go areas" for the UNAMID and AMIS before it since 2006 following the signing of Darfur Peace Agreement.
The UNAMID spokesperson, Noureddine Mezni yesterday told Sudan Tribune they are waiting for the green light from the rebel movement to enter the area.
Abu Sharati also spoke about the difficult situation of some 200,000 IDPs in Wadi Saleh, 180 klm from El Geneina the capital of western Darfur state, not far from the border with Chad.
He described the humanitarian situation there as alarming. He also said women have become victims of rape by the militias massed by the government near the border.
According to the United Nations reports, around 300,000 people have died and 2.7 million fled their homes since rebels in Darfur first rose up against the Arab-dominated government in Khartoum in February 2003. However, the government says 10,000 people have been killed.
18 people killed in recent government attacks in Darfur
Sunday 20 September 2009.
(PARIS) — Some 18 people are killed and 26 other wounded during attacks carried out by government army and militias on the positions of Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) of Abdel Wahid Al Nur near Jebel Marra this week.
Since the beginning of this month of September Sudanese army staged a series of air ground attacks on the position of the SLM-AW near Jebel Marra particularly in Ain Siro and Korma in North Darfur. This week the government troops attacked the rebel positions in Korma on Thursday and Friday.
The Sudanese army during the six-year-long conflict failed to dislodge the SLA- AW rebels from Jebel Marra, the highest region of the Sudan which inhabited by the Fur ethnic group. Also, since the start of the conflict many civilians and IDPs settle in the areas controlled by the rebel group saying they protect them from attacks by militias.
Hussein Abu Sharati the IDPs spokesperson on Saturday told Sudan Tribune that at least 18 civilians are killed during the attacks by the army and militias in 10 villages around Korma. He went further to say that the government backed militias killed the civilians deliberately despite the absence of rebels in the attacked villages.
"The number of the newly displaced civilians is over 5000 people, they went mainly to El Fasher Kutum camps," he said.
He also urged international humanitarian assistance to the displaced populations following this week adding that the humanitarian situation is very difficult.
"We make this appeal because we spoke with the UNAMID to provide shelter and food but they did intervene till now," Abu Saharti said adding "They are in dire need for relief and cannot wait more."
The areas held by the SLA-AW, like Korma and Jebel Marra generally, constitute "a no go areas" for the UNAMID and AMIS before it since 2006 following the signing of Darfur Peace Agreement.
The UNAMID spokesperson, Noureddine Mezni yesterday told Sudan Tribune they are waiting for the green light from the rebel movement to enter the area.
Abu Sharati also spoke about the difficult situation of some 200,000 IDPs in Wadi Saleh, 180 klm from El Geneina the capital of western Darfur state, not far from the border with Chad.
He described the humanitarian situation there as alarming. He also said women have become victims of rape by the militias massed by the government near the border.
According to the United Nations reports, around 300,000 people have died and 2.7 million fled their homes since rebels in Darfur first rose up against the Arab-dominated government in Khartoum in February 2003. However, the government says 10,000 people have been killed.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Day 165 - Sept. 19th
- Ten civilians were killed and 8 others were injured so far in government's attack on 12 villages around Korma (west of ElFasher) yesterday, a rebel leader told Radio Dabanga. The rebel said in an interview to the radio that the attack was by air and land where he stated that about 120 vehicles loaded with pro-government militia participated in the attack on the villages. He added that many civilians fled to the mountains.
This in addition to the reported news yesterday that similar attacks by the Government of Sudan on villages in North Darfur (north of ElFasher).
This in addition to the reported news yesterday that similar attacks by the Government of Sudan on villages in North Darfur (north of ElFasher).
Friday, September 18, 2009
Day 164 - Sept. 18th
- Security agents have arrested two Internally-displaced-persons from the camp of Alriyad in west Darfur. A leader in the camp told Radio Dabanga that a unit from the security agency (Government of Sudan) entered the camp and arrested Yahya Mohamed and Peter Magok and took them to undisclosed location. The refugee added that he fears that the two will be subjected to torture.
- A leader in the IDP camp of Hamidiyah told Radio Dabanga that new comers to the camp told him that their agricultural lands ( around their village of Toro) are confiscated by armed militia of Janjaweed and they (the Janjaweed) started to install water pumps in the wells ready to use the land for agricultural purposes.
- Urgent: via phone from a reliable source:
Government of Sudan in the past few days and till today is engaged in aerial bombings in the north area of North Darfur. Eyewitness reported that the Sudan Air Force is bombing villages of: Hilif, Berdik, Donkey Housh, and Um Sidr. In Um Sidr an old man (80 years old) was seriously injured, in addition to killing many . Another eyewitness reported that the Army, Jenjaweed, and Mujahideen from Khartoum are amassing in the town of Mallit (north of Elfasher) in preparation for an attack (most probably on those villages which are bombed by Sudan Air Force in the past days). The Eyewitness counted more than 88 vehicles loaded with Army and pro-government militias chanting war songs and others shouting that they are going to " clean Darfur" from the enemies of the nation.
- Reuters reported on the attacks by Government of Sudan (GoS):
Darfur rebels accuse Sudan army of attacks
Fri Sep 18, 2009 1:36pm EDT
By Andrew Heavens
KHARTOUM (Reuters) - Darfur rebels accused Sudanese government forces of attacking their positions on Thursday and Friday, weeks after a senior peacekeeper said the region was no longer in a state of war.
The reports came after a period of relative calm in the region, where more than six years of fighting has driven an estimated 2.7 million from their homes.
Commanders from an arm of the rebel Sudan Liberation Army (SLA) told Reuters Sudan's army, backed up by allied militias, launched ground and air attacks on their positions in territory around the North Darfur area of Korma.
An official from Darfur's joint U.N./African Union UNAMID peacekeeping force said it had received confirmation of the attack from non-rebel sources -- and peacekeeping troops had heard explosions coming from the area. No one was immediately available to comment from Sudan's army.
UNAMID's departing commander Martin Agwai sparked controversy last month when he said Darfur was no longer in a state of war, saying rebels were too fragmented to mount long-term campaigns or hold new territory.
But he also warned there might be a rise in fighting toward the end of the current rainy season as rebel and government forces tried to strengthen their positions ahead of the resumption of troubled talks, scheduled in Doha in October.
International sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, said there had been a build-up and regular movement of government forces in recent days and weeks around Korma, about 90 km (60 miles) west of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, and other parts of the district.
Another source said regular flights to the nearby town of Kutum had been suspended on Friday, often a sign of military activity on the ground.
"There is heavy fighting going on now around Korma," said Ibrahim al-Helwu, a commander from the branch of the rebel group loyal to Abdel Wahed Mohamed Ahmed al-Nur.
"They attacked our forces at 1pm (1000 GMT) on Thursday and all through today. They want to force us to negotiate with them. Our fighters have seen Antonovs and helicopter gunships."
Nur, who is based in Paris, has refused to join talks between Khartoum and Darfur's rebel Justice and Equality Movement (JEM), demanding security on the ground first.
Helwu said many civilians had fled to the hills of Jabel Marra and would need help from the United Nations and aid groups. He said government troops also attacked SLA positions further southwest toward Jabel Marra.
The UNAMID official, who asked not to be named, said peacekeepers had not seen the fighting themselves.
"We heard from independent sources ... that government of Sudan forces launched an attack with about 70 vehicles. Several sources including locals and UNAMID personnel heard explosions."
Darfur's conflict flared in 2003 when mostly non-Arab rebels took up arms against Sudan's government, demanding better representation and accusing it of neglecting the region.
Khartoum mobilized mostly-Arab militias to crush the uprising, unleashing a wave of violence which Washington and some activists have called genocide. Khartoum denies the charge.
Estimates of the death count range from 10,000 according to Khartoum to up to 300,000 according to U.N. humanitarian chief John Holmes.
http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE58H4R320090918
- A leader in the IDP camp of Hamidiyah told Radio Dabanga that new comers to the camp told him that their agricultural lands ( around their village of Toro) are confiscated by armed militia of Janjaweed and they (the Janjaweed) started to install water pumps in the wells ready to use the land for agricultural purposes.
- Urgent: via phone from a reliable source:
Government of Sudan in the past few days and till today is engaged in aerial bombings in the north area of North Darfur. Eyewitness reported that the Sudan Air Force is bombing villages of: Hilif, Berdik, Donkey Housh, and Um Sidr. In Um Sidr an old man (80 years old) was seriously injured, in addition to killing many . Another eyewitness reported that the Army, Jenjaweed, and Mujahideen from Khartoum are amassing in the town of Mallit (north of Elfasher) in preparation for an attack (most probably on those villages which are bombed by Sudan Air Force in the past days). The Eyewitness counted more than 88 vehicles loaded with Army and pro-government militias chanting war songs and others shouting that they are going to " clean Darfur" from the enemies of the nation.
- Reuters reported on the attacks by Government of Sudan (GoS):
Darfur rebels accuse Sudan army of attacks
Fri Sep 18, 2009 1:36pm EDT
By Andrew Heavens
KHARTOUM (Reuters) - Darfur rebels accused Sudanese government forces of attacking their positions on Thursday and Friday, weeks after a senior peacekeeper said the region was no longer in a state of war.
The reports came after a period of relative calm in the region, where more than six years of fighting has driven an estimated 2.7 million from their homes.
Commanders from an arm of the rebel Sudan Liberation Army (SLA) told Reuters Sudan's army, backed up by allied militias, launched ground and air attacks on their positions in territory around the North Darfur area of Korma.
An official from Darfur's joint U.N./African Union UNAMID peacekeeping force said it had received confirmation of the attack from non-rebel sources -- and peacekeeping troops had heard explosions coming from the area. No one was immediately available to comment from Sudan's army.
UNAMID's departing commander Martin Agwai sparked controversy last month when he said Darfur was no longer in a state of war, saying rebels were too fragmented to mount long-term campaigns or hold new territory.
But he also warned there might be a rise in fighting toward the end of the current rainy season as rebel and government forces tried to strengthen their positions ahead of the resumption of troubled talks, scheduled in Doha in October.
International sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, said there had been a build-up and regular movement of government forces in recent days and weeks around Korma, about 90 km (60 miles) west of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, and other parts of the district.
Another source said regular flights to the nearby town of Kutum had been suspended on Friday, often a sign of military activity on the ground.
"There is heavy fighting going on now around Korma," said Ibrahim al-Helwu, a commander from the branch of the rebel group loyal to Abdel Wahed Mohamed Ahmed al-Nur.
"They attacked our forces at 1pm (1000 GMT) on Thursday and all through today. They want to force us to negotiate with them. Our fighters have seen Antonovs and helicopter gunships."
Nur, who is based in Paris, has refused to join talks between Khartoum and Darfur's rebel Justice and Equality Movement (JEM), demanding security on the ground first.
Helwu said many civilians had fled to the hills of Jabel Marra and would need help from the United Nations and aid groups. He said government troops also attacked SLA positions further southwest toward Jabel Marra.
The UNAMID official, who asked not to be named, said peacekeepers had not seen the fighting themselves.
"We heard from independent sources ... that government of Sudan forces launched an attack with about 70 vehicles. Several sources including locals and UNAMID personnel heard explosions."
Darfur's conflict flared in 2003 when mostly non-Arab rebels took up arms against Sudan's government, demanding better representation and accusing it of neglecting the region.
Khartoum mobilized mostly-Arab militias to crush the uprising, unleashing a wave of violence which Washington and some activists have called genocide. Khartoum denies the charge.
Estimates of the death count range from 10,000 according to Khartoum to up to 300,000 according to U.N. humanitarian chief John Holmes.
http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE58H4R320090918
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Day 163 - Sept. 17th
- From Radio Dabanga:
The kidnappers of two staff members of UNAMID peacekeepers in Darfur have asked a ransom of 3 million Sudanese pounds (about 1,3 million dollar) to release the UN staff members. The kidnappers told Radio Dabanga today (Wednesday) that the negotiators on behalf of the government rejected their request. They keep their hostages in Jebel Konjyo, between four to ten kilometres north-west of Zalingei. The kidnappers allowed one of the hostages to speak to Radio Dabanga.
The kidnappers said that they do not trust the negotiators, since they are identified as ‘Janjaweed’. The kidnappers call themselves the Martyrs of Darfur (Feda’yin Darfur). They consider Ahmed Hussein as their Commander in Chief. The group consists of members of the Abbala-ethnicity having Arab ancestors mainly living in West Darfur. The spokesman Fatha Al Rahman, who is also a commander of the group, told Radio Dabanga that: ‘Our tribe is deceived by the government and now we want to get our rights. We want them to give us 3 billion pounds (3 million new Sudanese pounds – editor) to be given through the head of the native administration (Idara Ahlia). No matter from which ethnic group he might be”. Asked how they would receive the money he answered: ‘We want to receive it cash form the native administration and not by the banking system’. The kidnappers allowed Radio Dabanga to talk to one of their hostages, named Patrick. He spoke briefly to Radio Dabanga in English stating that he was ‘fine but tired’. The UN staff member also said that his colleague felt sick and was not able to talk for the telephone. She suffered from rashes. The spokesman of kidnappers took the mobile phone back and added that the sick UN-colleague ‘was provided with medication’. The two kidnappers disappeared two weeks ago from their UNAMID compound in Zalingei (West-Darfur).
An other group of kidnappers in North Darfur are negotiating with the government concerning the release of two international aid workers of the Irish NGO Goal. They are taken hostage since the beginning of July.
The kidnappers of two staff members of UNAMID peacekeepers in Darfur have asked a ransom of 3 million Sudanese pounds (about 1,3 million dollar) to release the UN staff members. The kidnappers told Radio Dabanga today (Wednesday) that the negotiators on behalf of the government rejected their request. They keep their hostages in Jebel Konjyo, between four to ten kilometres north-west of Zalingei. The kidnappers allowed one of the hostages to speak to Radio Dabanga.
The kidnappers said that they do not trust the negotiators, since they are identified as ‘Janjaweed’. The kidnappers call themselves the Martyrs of Darfur (Feda’yin Darfur). They consider Ahmed Hussein as their Commander in Chief. The group consists of members of the Abbala-ethnicity having Arab ancestors mainly living in West Darfur. The spokesman Fatha Al Rahman, who is also a commander of the group, told Radio Dabanga that: ‘Our tribe is deceived by the government and now we want to get our rights. We want them to give us 3 billion pounds (3 million new Sudanese pounds – editor) to be given through the head of the native administration (Idara Ahlia). No matter from which ethnic group he might be”. Asked how they would receive the money he answered: ‘We want to receive it cash form the native administration and not by the banking system’. The kidnappers allowed Radio Dabanga to talk to one of their hostages, named Patrick. He spoke briefly to Radio Dabanga in English stating that he was ‘fine but tired’. The UN staff member also said that his colleague felt sick and was not able to talk for the telephone. She suffered from rashes. The spokesman of kidnappers took the mobile phone back and added that the sick UN-colleague ‘was provided with medication’. The two kidnappers disappeared two weeks ago from their UNAMID compound in Zalingei (West-Darfur).
An other group of kidnappers in North Darfur are negotiating with the government concerning the release of two international aid workers of the Irish NGO Goal. They are taken hostage since the beginning of July.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Day 162 - Sept. 16th
- The death squads in Darfur are still spreading death and terror in the cities and camps of Darfur. Death squads are formed by Janjaweed forces. this is the latest crime as reported by Radio Dabanga:
Sergeant Abdullah Adam, known as Abdullah Madaga, has been killed on Saturday night in his house at Sad Al Hali in Nyala. Eyewitnesses told Radio Dabanga that four gunmen riding in a car belonging to the border intelligent guards fired the deadly bullets. The shooting and killing has been confirmed. The formerly known Janjaweed and other militias have been integrated in the border guards part of the Sudanese Armed Forces. In a separate attack on Monday, a police man called Nasser Al Dakery was killed in Nyala by unknown gunmen. In El Fasher two policemen were shot dead by unknown gunmen at bus station in Al Fasher on Saturday night. The names of them are Ali Amar Mohamed and Ahmed Adam Younis.
- Leaders in the internally-displaced-persons (IDPs) camps of AbuShouk, Shadad, and Kassab told Radio Dabanga this morning that the camps face acute shortage in food and clean water now. They said that the level of food supply, medicine, clinic services, and clean water were below adequate since the expulsion of the 13 international NGOs.
Sergeant Abdullah Adam, known as Abdullah Madaga, has been killed on Saturday night in his house at Sad Al Hali in Nyala. Eyewitnesses told Radio Dabanga that four gunmen riding in a car belonging to the border intelligent guards fired the deadly bullets. The shooting and killing has been confirmed. The formerly known Janjaweed and other militias have been integrated in the border guards part of the Sudanese Armed Forces. In a separate attack on Monday, a police man called Nasser Al Dakery was killed in Nyala by unknown gunmen. In El Fasher two policemen were shot dead by unknown gunmen at bus station in Al Fasher on Saturday night. The names of them are Ali Amar Mohamed and Ahmed Adam Younis.
- Leaders in the internally-displaced-persons (IDPs) camps of AbuShouk, Shadad, and Kassab told Radio Dabanga this morning that the camps face acute shortage in food and clean water now. They said that the level of food supply, medicine, clinic services, and clean water were below adequate since the expulsion of the 13 international NGOs.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Day 160 - Sept. 14th
- This morning Radio Dabanga interviewed the U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan General Gration who is visiting Darfur these days. Gration told Radio Dabanga that he met with the representatives of the IDPs (Internally-Displaced-Persons) in AbuShouk camp. Gration mentioned in the interview that the security situation is bad, and so are the water and sanitation situations in the camps. The S.E. added that the IDPs got wrong information about him advocating for their return to their villages while security situation remains remains dangerous.
In a separate interview, an IDP representative who was among others met with the S.E. told Radio Dabanga that the S.E. apologized to the IDPs about his statement regarding "remnants of genocide" and his inaccurate statements regarding the improvement of humanitarian and security situations in the camps in Darfur. The IDP leader said they submitted a list of their demands to the S.E. which include security and protection, disarming the janjaweed, improving the humanitarian situation, justice, and no elections to be held under current situation.
In a separate interview, an IDP representative who was among others met with the S.E. told Radio Dabanga that the S.E. apologized to the IDPs about his statement regarding "remnants of genocide" and his inaccurate statements regarding the improvement of humanitarian and security situations in the camps in Darfur. The IDP leader said they submitted a list of their demands to the S.E. which include security and protection, disarming the janjaweed, improving the humanitarian situation, justice, and no elections to be held under current situation.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Day 159 - Sept. 13th
- Darfur IDPs (Internally-Displaced-Persons) have tough words for the U.S. Special Envoy.
From Sudan Tribune:
Darfur IDP’s have tough words for US special envoy
September 13, 2009 (PARIS) — The US President Barack Obama’s special envoy for Sudan, Major General J. Scott Gration, faced hostile audience today during a meeting with Darfur displaced people who charged with complicity with Sudanese government going as far as demanding his resignation.
Gration who arrived in North Darfur state on Saturday met today with representatives of four Internally Displaced People (IDP)camps, Abu Shouk, Al-Salam, Zamzam, Koushab.
The meeting took place in Abu Shouk at 10:00 local time on Sunday.
The IDPs who had announced the boycott of Gration’s visit to the restive region said they changed their mind fearing reprisal by security services and also to use this opportunity to loudly voice their plight. The special envoy was accompanied by a large number of journalists.
They also said wanted to tell him why they reject any dealings with him and call on Obama to replace him "not only because of his failure to improve the security and humanitarian situations, but also because he is acting against their interests in the areas of peace and justice,".
Speaking to Sudan Tribune from Abu Shouk, the IDP’s representative from the four camps queried Gration about what he did since his previous visits to Darfur and their demands for security and protection.
"We asked him about demand for security and protection. We explained to him that we are still subjected to militias’ attacks and detention by security services," said one of the representatives who requested not to be named.
"We also reminded him about our need to strengthen the mandate of the peacekeeping mission. What have you done for us Mr. Gration? We asked him?"
The camps residents further said they questioned the US special envoy about the aid groups that he previously said that Sudan had agreed to let them back in the region.
"We accused him of providing the cover to Khartoum and misleading the international community when he said that Sudanese government had negotiated with him the return of American nongovernmental aid groups to replace the 13 expelled groups".
"We have seen nothing till now and the situation is worsening every day. Gration is in part responsible for the deterioration we do believe. Because the international community thought he was telling the truth." another one said.
Sudan expelled 13 foreign aid groups on March 4 after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against Sudanese President Omer Al-Bashir for war crimes and crimes against humanity, which include murder, rape and torture.
Sudan, after talks with US envoy Scott Gration and US Senator John Kerry said that the expelled groups would not be allowed to return to Darfur but said it would consider new humanitarian aid.
The IDPs said they tackled the issue of the peace process in Darfur with the US special envoy who is involved in a unification process of some rebel factions parallel of another one conducted by Libya.
They reiterated to Gration their opposition to any peace process before the disarmament of the pro-government militias, return of IDPs to their homeland after individual and collective compensations. Also they reaffirmed their request to prosecute the responsible of Darfur crimes.
"We told him that we are against this so called unification because it encourages all the war traders and brokers to exploit our misery and benefit from it while we consider Abdel Wahid Al-Nur as our unique representative".
"This is why also we are opposed to the participation of ‘Civil Society’ in the talks because it is difficult to define who is civil society under the current repression and emergency law in Darfur," they further stressed.
During their hour long telephone interview the representatives of the four camps, also pointed out they spoke during their meeting with the American envoy about the government claims about the voluntary return.
They said the camps populations are increasing not decreasing as the authorities say. They said Zamzam and Dali camps received recently news IDPs after attacks on Korma near Jebel Marra.
They further spoke about the ongoing preparations to hold general elections and expressed their rejection to the electoral process before a lasting and just peace.
EXCUSE TO DARFUR PEOPLE AND RESIGNATION
In a mark of defiance to Scott Gration, the IDPs representatives after detailing their positions of Darfur conflict accused the special envoy of titling Sudanese government and favoring it.
They further asked him to apologize for Darfur and resign from his position because of his statements on "remnants of genocide" and his request before the Congress to ease economic sanctions on Sudan.
"We told him it is better to apologize to Darfur people about his statements on genocide, and Sudanese government support to terror groups or the left of sanctions" they said.
"We hope that the journalists who came with him will report what we said, but also we want Sudan Tribune to report our message to President Obama and the American people," they further said.
Gration yesterday addressed the opening session of the Third General Conference of the National Congress Party (NCP) in North Darfur where he praised the efforts done by the government to improve the humanitarian situation, the official SUNA reported.
He also spoke about his efforts to reunite rebel groups and organize civil society organizations.
Hussein Abu Sharati, the spokesperson of Darfur IDPs said on Friday that Gration is not welcome in Darfur adding he ignored their demands for security and did nothing to ease the bad humanitarian situation particularly after the expulsion of 13 foreign aid groups last March.
During a visit to South Darfur on July 18, Gration met with 48 IDPs representatives of Darfur camps in Kalma. The US official sought to hear their claims and points of view on the Doha peace process.
From Sudan Tribune:
Darfur IDP’s have tough words for US special envoy
September 13, 2009 (PARIS) — The US President Barack Obama’s special envoy for Sudan, Major General J. Scott Gration, faced hostile audience today during a meeting with Darfur displaced people who charged with complicity with Sudanese government going as far as demanding his resignation.
Gration who arrived in North Darfur state on Saturday met today with representatives of four Internally Displaced People (IDP)camps, Abu Shouk, Al-Salam, Zamzam, Koushab.
The meeting took place in Abu Shouk at 10:00 local time on Sunday.
The IDPs who had announced the boycott of Gration’s visit to the restive region said they changed their mind fearing reprisal by security services and also to use this opportunity to loudly voice their plight. The special envoy was accompanied by a large number of journalists.
They also said wanted to tell him why they reject any dealings with him and call on Obama to replace him "not only because of his failure to improve the security and humanitarian situations, but also because he is acting against their interests in the areas of peace and justice,".
Speaking to Sudan Tribune from Abu Shouk, the IDP’s representative from the four camps queried Gration about what he did since his previous visits to Darfur and their demands for security and protection.
"We asked him about demand for security and protection. We explained to him that we are still subjected to militias’ attacks and detention by security services," said one of the representatives who requested not to be named.
"We also reminded him about our need to strengthen the mandate of the peacekeeping mission. What have you done for us Mr. Gration? We asked him?"
The camps residents further said they questioned the US special envoy about the aid groups that he previously said that Sudan had agreed to let them back in the region.
"We accused him of providing the cover to Khartoum and misleading the international community when he said that Sudanese government had negotiated with him the return of American nongovernmental aid groups to replace the 13 expelled groups".
"We have seen nothing till now and the situation is worsening every day. Gration is in part responsible for the deterioration we do believe. Because the international community thought he was telling the truth." another one said.
Sudan expelled 13 foreign aid groups on March 4 after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against Sudanese President Omer Al-Bashir for war crimes and crimes against humanity, which include murder, rape and torture.
Sudan, after talks with US envoy Scott Gration and US Senator John Kerry said that the expelled groups would not be allowed to return to Darfur but said it would consider new humanitarian aid.
The IDPs said they tackled the issue of the peace process in Darfur with the US special envoy who is involved in a unification process of some rebel factions parallel of another one conducted by Libya.
They reiterated to Gration their opposition to any peace process before the disarmament of the pro-government militias, return of IDPs to their homeland after individual and collective compensations. Also they reaffirmed their request to prosecute the responsible of Darfur crimes.
"We told him that we are against this so called unification because it encourages all the war traders and brokers to exploit our misery and benefit from it while we consider Abdel Wahid Al-Nur as our unique representative".
"This is why also we are opposed to the participation of ‘Civil Society’ in the talks because it is difficult to define who is civil society under the current repression and emergency law in Darfur," they further stressed.
During their hour long telephone interview the representatives of the four camps, also pointed out they spoke during their meeting with the American envoy about the government claims about the voluntary return.
They said the camps populations are increasing not decreasing as the authorities say. They said Zamzam and Dali camps received recently news IDPs after attacks on Korma near Jebel Marra.
They further spoke about the ongoing preparations to hold general elections and expressed their rejection to the electoral process before a lasting and just peace.
EXCUSE TO DARFUR PEOPLE AND RESIGNATION
In a mark of defiance to Scott Gration, the IDPs representatives after detailing their positions of Darfur conflict accused the special envoy of titling Sudanese government and favoring it.
They further asked him to apologize for Darfur and resign from his position because of his statements on "remnants of genocide" and his request before the Congress to ease economic sanctions on Sudan.
"We told him it is better to apologize to Darfur people about his statements on genocide, and Sudanese government support to terror groups or the left of sanctions" they said.
"We hope that the journalists who came with him will report what we said, but also we want Sudan Tribune to report our message to President Obama and the American people," they further said.
Gration yesterday addressed the opening session of the Third General Conference of the National Congress Party (NCP) in North Darfur where he praised the efforts done by the government to improve the humanitarian situation, the official SUNA reported.
He also spoke about his efforts to reunite rebel groups and organize civil society organizations.
Hussein Abu Sharati, the spokesperson of Darfur IDPs said on Friday that Gration is not welcome in Darfur adding he ignored their demands for security and did nothing to ease the bad humanitarian situation particularly after the expulsion of 13 foreign aid groups last March.
During a visit to South Darfur on July 18, Gration met with 48 IDPs representatives of Darfur camps in Kalma. The US official sought to hear their claims and points of view on the Doha peace process.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Day 158 - Sept. 12th
- (From Radio Dabanga):
A refugee leader from the camp of Kalma (South Darfur) told Radio Dabanga this morning that at 2:00 am in the morning, a suspicious fire has destroyed storage shack that belongs to one of the expelled NGOs (CFI Organization). The leader said that the the storage shack used to house sewing machines (for training women of sewing skills), books, and other educational and training materials.
- The refugees in Kalma camp this morning voiced their complaints regarding lack of medicine and mosquito nets in the camp. A refugee told Radio Dabanga this morning that malaria and other rain-associated diseases are rampant in the camp. He pointed such deteriorating health conditions in camp to the lack of competent NGOs handling the camps now in comparison to those expelled on 4th of March.
- The security agents of the Government of Sudan (GoS) in Darfur have arrested Zhara Abaker, an IDP (internally-displaced-person) from Abu Shok camp, for unknown reasons. This happened on the 9th of September after she was released from the central police station. Eyewitnesses told Radio Dabanga Zhara was ordered to enter a car. Her whereabouts is unknown.
- he security for Darfur aid workers and peacekeepers has not improved according to the statistics provided by the humanitarian coordinating office (UNOCHA). The number of killed, injured and detained aid workers in the first 8 months of 2009 has already almost reached the levels of total figures for the years 2008 and 2007. The recently departed head of the peacekeeping mission in Darfur UNAMID, Rodolphe Adada, claimed that the situation for aid workers had improved. But the UN-OCHA provided today (10 September) a Darfur Security scorecard for 2009 as of the end of August. It summarizes the casualties and assaults:
- 7 national humanitarian staff and 3 UNAMID staff have been killed.
-12 humanitarian staff and 10 UNAMID staff have been wounded or injured.
-11 humanitarians (7 international) have been kidnapped.
-26 humanitarians and 3 UNAMID staff have been physically or sexually assaulted.
-18 humanitarians and 11 UNAMID staff have been abducted during carjackings.
-44 humanitarians and 12 UNAMID staff have been arrested or temporarily detained by the Government of Sudan.
-64 humanitarian vehicles and 31 UNAMID vehicles have been hijacked or stolen.
-There have been 103 assaults or break-ins on humanitarian agency premises and 22 on UNAMID premises.
A refugee leader from the camp of Kalma (South Darfur) told Radio Dabanga this morning that at 2:00 am in the morning, a suspicious fire has destroyed storage shack that belongs to one of the expelled NGOs (CFI Organization). The leader said that the the storage shack used to house sewing machines (for training women of sewing skills), books, and other educational and training materials.
- The refugees in Kalma camp this morning voiced their complaints regarding lack of medicine and mosquito nets in the camp. A refugee told Radio Dabanga this morning that malaria and other rain-associated diseases are rampant in the camp. He pointed such deteriorating health conditions in camp to the lack of competent NGOs handling the camps now in comparison to those expelled on 4th of March.
- The security agents of the Government of Sudan (GoS) in Darfur have arrested Zhara Abaker, an IDP (internally-displaced-person) from Abu Shok camp, for unknown reasons. This happened on the 9th of September after she was released from the central police station. Eyewitnesses told Radio Dabanga Zhara was ordered to enter a car. Her whereabouts is unknown.
- he security for Darfur aid workers and peacekeepers has not improved according to the statistics provided by the humanitarian coordinating office (UNOCHA). The number of killed, injured and detained aid workers in the first 8 months of 2009 has already almost reached the levels of total figures for the years 2008 and 2007. The recently departed head of the peacekeeping mission in Darfur UNAMID, Rodolphe Adada, claimed that the situation for aid workers had improved. But the UN-OCHA provided today (10 September) a Darfur Security scorecard for 2009 as of the end of August. It summarizes the casualties and assaults:
- 7 national humanitarian staff and 3 UNAMID staff have been killed.
-12 humanitarian staff and 10 UNAMID staff have been wounded or injured.
-11 humanitarians (7 international) have been kidnapped.
-26 humanitarians and 3 UNAMID staff have been physically or sexually assaulted.
-18 humanitarians and 11 UNAMID staff have been abducted during carjackings.
-44 humanitarians and 12 UNAMID staff have been arrested or temporarily detained by the Government of Sudan.
-64 humanitarian vehicles and 31 UNAMID vehicles have been hijacked or stolen.
-There have been 103 assaults or break-ins on humanitarian agency premises and 22 on UNAMID premises.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Day 154 - Sept. 8th
- Over the past few days serious fighting have occurred near Korma in North Darfur. The clashes started five days ago between Sudan Armed Forces and rebels of the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) belonging to the faction of Abdel Wahid Al Nur. During the weekend people in Korma heard heavy exchange of gunshots at a distance from the village. Abdel Rahman Nimr, military spokesperson of SLM-Abdel Wahid, told Radio Dabanga that the clashes started already five days ago at Ain Sirro area in North Darfur. The SLM-spokesman says his troops defeated the Sudan Armed Forces. He further explained that the Korma clashes were aimed at dispatching farmers and citizens away from their plots and prevented them from cultivating and harvesting. Eyewitnesses from the area confirmed to Radio Dabanga the reports about fighting.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Day 153 - Sept. 7th
- Government of Sudan will miss outgoing UNAMID's Adada.
From Sudan Tribune:
Sudan awards outgoing UNAMID’s chief Nilein Order
September 7, 2009 (KHARTOUM) — Sudanese President has awarded today the outgoing chief of Darfur peacekeeping force, Rodolphe Adada, the Nilein Order, first class in recognition of his efforts in Darfur peacekeeping mission.
Before to grant him one of the country’s top honours during a farewell visit to the Sudanese President, Omer Al-Bashir last week praised Adada and disclosed that the Joint Special Representative had resigned to protest the renewal of his job.
"The enemies of Sudan did not like Adada’s report on Darfur, and this is why they refused to renew him" Bashir said last Thursday. "Adada resigned embodying the dignity of African man," he further said.
A UN official confirmed to Sudan Tribune Bashir’s remarks adding the UN renewed him only for six months instead of one year. Adada considered the UN Secretariat’s decision as disapproval of his action.
Rodolphe Adada, a former foreign minister of the Republic of Congo, stepped down from his duties as UNAMID chief on August 31. UN Secretary General accepted his resignation and wished him continued success in his "future role with the Government of the Congo."
The resignation of the head of the joint peacekeeping mission sparked difference between the two institutions. Darfur operation is the first hybrid peacekeeping mission between the African and the United Nations.
The AU Executive Council said concerned "at the way the decision of renewing Mr. Adada’s contract was handled by the UN Secretariat," said a statement issued in Tripoli on August 31.
The African Union urged "the UN Secretariat to ensure that all decisions relating to the senior management of UNAMID are taken after due consultations with the AU Commission and to avoid re-occurrence of such situations."
Adada’s issue and the difference in the evaluation of his action could impact the future cooperation between the two institutions but also risks to complicate the work of the next Joint Special Representative, said two western analysts to Sudan Tribune.
From Sudan Tribune:
Sudan awards outgoing UNAMID’s chief Nilein Order
September 7, 2009 (KHARTOUM) — Sudanese President has awarded today the outgoing chief of Darfur peacekeeping force, Rodolphe Adada, the Nilein Order, first class in recognition of his efforts in Darfur peacekeeping mission.
Before to grant him one of the country’s top honours during a farewell visit to the Sudanese President, Omer Al-Bashir last week praised Adada and disclosed that the Joint Special Representative had resigned to protest the renewal of his job.
"The enemies of Sudan did not like Adada’s report on Darfur, and this is why they refused to renew him" Bashir said last Thursday. "Adada resigned embodying the dignity of African man," he further said.
A UN official confirmed to Sudan Tribune Bashir’s remarks adding the UN renewed him only for six months instead of one year. Adada considered the UN Secretariat’s decision as disapproval of his action.
Rodolphe Adada, a former foreign minister of the Republic of Congo, stepped down from his duties as UNAMID chief on August 31. UN Secretary General accepted his resignation and wished him continued success in his "future role with the Government of the Congo."
The resignation of the head of the joint peacekeeping mission sparked difference between the two institutions. Darfur operation is the first hybrid peacekeeping mission between the African and the United Nations.
The AU Executive Council said concerned "at the way the decision of renewing Mr. Adada’s contract was handled by the UN Secretariat," said a statement issued in Tripoli on August 31.
The African Union urged "the UN Secretariat to ensure that all decisions relating to the senior management of UNAMID are taken after due consultations with the AU Commission and to avoid re-occurrence of such situations."
Adada’s issue and the difference in the evaluation of his action could impact the future cooperation between the two institutions but also risks to complicate the work of the next Joint Special Representative, said two western analysts to Sudan Tribune.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Day 152 - Sept. 6th
- Darfur Activist Abdelmageed Sahleh still his whereabouts is not known as of tday.
Saleh was abducted last week in Khartoum by security forces of Government of Sudan (GoS).
Also more than 8 leaders in the internally-displaced-persons (IDP) camps of Abushouk and Alsalam near ElFasher (North Darfur), still detained by the security forces in Darfur. The detained leaders refused to sign statements (declarations) that they keep silent in the camps and not to participate in any "political activities" in the camps.
Saleh was abducted last week in Khartoum by security forces of Government of Sudan (GoS).
Also more than 8 leaders in the internally-displaced-persons (IDP) camps of Abushouk and Alsalam near ElFasher (North Darfur), still detained by the security forces in Darfur. The detained leaders refused to sign statements (declarations) that they keep silent in the camps and not to participate in any "political activities" in the camps.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Day 151 - Sept. 5th
- Outbreak of dangerous type of diarrhea in the camps of Zalengie (West Darfur) is reported. A leader in internally-displaced-persons (IDP) camp in Zalengie area told Radio Dabanga today that the bad conditions of this rainy season and due to lack of medicine and other preventive measures, a dangerous cases of diarrhea started to appear in the camps. The leader said the children are the most vulnerable to this diarrhea with blood discharge. He said that there are other diseases associated with rainy season and bad sanitation started to spread. The leader said that there are also cases of skin diseases among children (rashes) due to bites of weed insects and mosquito. The leader pointed out that there is big difference when those experienced NGOs (before their expulsion) were handling the preventive measures before the rainy season and they were always ready with medicine and qualified medical team, in comparison to the current NGOs.
- A leader in the camps around ElFasher (North Darfur) told Radio Dabanga that the ruling party NCP (National Congress Party) is embarked on an scheme these days to force refugees in the camps of Elsalam and Nivasha to return to their villages under the slogan of (Development and Rebuilding). The leader said that he is from the town of Tawilah (west of Elfasher where it was destroyed completely by the GoS and Janjaweed in the years 2003 and 2004), and now NCP is using some of its members from his town to make them return to Tawilah. The leader said that the NCP is using tactics such as intimidation, withholding ration cards (without it no food, medicine, or shelter could be attained), and empty rosy promises. The leader said the NCP is working on dismantling the refugees' camps under the program of (voluntary return).
- A leader in the camps around ElFasher (North Darfur) told Radio Dabanga that the ruling party NCP (National Congress Party) is embarked on an scheme these days to force refugees in the camps of Elsalam and Nivasha to return to their villages under the slogan of (Development and Rebuilding). The leader said that he is from the town of Tawilah (west of Elfasher where it was destroyed completely by the GoS and Janjaweed in the years 2003 and 2004), and now NCP is using some of its members from his town to make them return to Tawilah. The leader said that the NCP is using tactics such as intimidation, withholding ration cards (without it no food, medicine, or shelter could be attained), and empty rosy promises. The leader said the NCP is working on dismantling the refugees' camps under the program of (voluntary return).
Friday, September 4, 2009
Day 150 - Sept. 4th
- Darfuris were always skeptical about the periodic reports issued by UNAMID officials.
Many Darfuris in the Internally Displaced Persons' camps were not sorry to see two leaders of UNAMID depart, but the Government of Sudan was.
As reported by Sudan Tribune, Albashir (President of Sudan), expressed his sorrow in seeing these UNAMID leaders go:
Sudan says Adada resigned after UN refusal to renew him
Friday 4 September 2009
(KHARTOUM) — Sudanese President said today that the former head of Darfur hybrid peacekeeping mission (UNAMID) resigned to protest UN refusal to renew his contract.
Rodolphe Adada, left, greets members of the Chinese follow-up troop of engineering unit after their arrival in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur state of Sudan, Thursday, July 17, 2008 (AP)
Rodolphe Adada, a former foreign minister of the Republic of Congo, stepped down from his duties as UNAMID chief on August 31. UN Secretary General accepted his resignation and wished him continued success in his "future role with the Government of the Congo."
Speaking today at a breaking fast ceremony (Iftar) organized Sudanese Copt Church, Al-Bashir said "The enemies of Sudan did not like Adada’s report on Darfur, and this is why they refused to renew him" for another two years. "Adada resigned embodying the dignity of African man."
Last April, Adada speaking before the UN Security Council described the security situation in Darfur as "low-intensity conflict." He told the 15 members that around 130-150 people were dying each month due to violence in Darfur, adding the situation has changed from the period of intense hostilities in 2003-2004.
Adada also suggested that the International Criminal Court arrest warrant issued for Sudanese president Omer Hassan Al-Bashir last month has complicated prospects for a political process.
At the time, Adada remarks caused an outcry.
The US ambassador to the UN Susan Rice questioned the "low intensity conflict" labeling by Adada and suggested that he is contradicting his boss Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon’s reports. While UK and French delegates echoed the same view and criticized his allusion to a UNSC resolution suspending Bashir’s indictment.
UN figures say the war has claimed at least 300,000 lives from violence, disease and displacement. It also estimates some 2.7 million people were driven from their homes and at its height, in 2003-2005, it was called the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.
In an interview with the Associated Press published today, Adada maintained "We can no longer talk of a big conflict, of a war in Darfur." "I think now everybody understands it. We can no longer speak of this issue. It is over," he further said.
Nourredine Mezni, the UNAMID spokesperson told Sudan Tribune recently that Adada had resigned due to personal reasons and excluded any political motivations behind his anticipated departure.
Also, Ban Ki-Moon in a letter obtained by Sudan Tribune praised Adada efforts during the last two years. "You have led UNAMID with distinction during its most challenging initial deployment phase and in an environment of unprecedented difficulty," said the UN chief.
Despite criticisms made by western diplomats on UNAMID’s "ineffectiveness", it was not clear if Bashir statements reflect a real disaffection between Adada and the UN. Some observers say Sudanese President used to manipulate such situations and turns it for the credit of his government.
- The detained IDP leaders from Abu Shouk camp are still under detention by the Security Apparatus without any charges. The relatives of these leaders expressed today their deep anxiety to Radio Dabanga about the well-being and the whereabouts of the detained leaders.
Many Darfuris in the Internally Displaced Persons' camps were not sorry to see two leaders of UNAMID depart, but the Government of Sudan was.
As reported by Sudan Tribune, Albashir (President of Sudan), expressed his sorrow in seeing these UNAMID leaders go:
Sudan says Adada resigned after UN refusal to renew him
Friday 4 September 2009
(KHARTOUM) — Sudanese President said today that the former head of Darfur hybrid peacekeeping mission (UNAMID) resigned to protest UN refusal to renew his contract.
Rodolphe Adada, left, greets members of the Chinese follow-up troop of engineering unit after their arrival in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur state of Sudan, Thursday, July 17, 2008 (AP)
Rodolphe Adada, a former foreign minister of the Republic of Congo, stepped down from his duties as UNAMID chief on August 31. UN Secretary General accepted his resignation and wished him continued success in his "future role with the Government of the Congo."
Speaking today at a breaking fast ceremony (Iftar) organized Sudanese Copt Church, Al-Bashir said "The enemies of Sudan did not like Adada’s report on Darfur, and this is why they refused to renew him" for another two years. "Adada resigned embodying the dignity of African man."
Last April, Adada speaking before the UN Security Council described the security situation in Darfur as "low-intensity conflict." He told the 15 members that around 130-150 people were dying each month due to violence in Darfur, adding the situation has changed from the period of intense hostilities in 2003-2004.
Adada also suggested that the International Criminal Court arrest warrant issued for Sudanese president Omer Hassan Al-Bashir last month has complicated prospects for a political process.
At the time, Adada remarks caused an outcry.
The US ambassador to the UN Susan Rice questioned the "low intensity conflict" labeling by Adada and suggested that he is contradicting his boss Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon’s reports. While UK and French delegates echoed the same view and criticized his allusion to a UNSC resolution suspending Bashir’s indictment.
UN figures say the war has claimed at least 300,000 lives from violence, disease and displacement. It also estimates some 2.7 million people were driven from their homes and at its height, in 2003-2005, it was called the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.
In an interview with the Associated Press published today, Adada maintained "We can no longer talk of a big conflict, of a war in Darfur." "I think now everybody understands it. We can no longer speak of this issue. It is over," he further said.
Nourredine Mezni, the UNAMID spokesperson told Sudan Tribune recently that Adada had resigned due to personal reasons and excluded any political motivations behind his anticipated departure.
Also, Ban Ki-Moon in a letter obtained by Sudan Tribune praised Adada efforts during the last two years. "You have led UNAMID with distinction during its most challenging initial deployment phase and in an environment of unprecedented difficulty," said the UN chief.
Despite criticisms made by western diplomats on UNAMID’s "ineffectiveness", it was not clear if Bashir statements reflect a real disaffection between Adada and the UN. Some observers say Sudanese President used to manipulate such situations and turns it for the credit of his government.
- The detained IDP leaders from Abu Shouk camp are still under detention by the Security Apparatus without any charges. The relatives of these leaders expressed today their deep anxiety to Radio Dabanga about the well-being and the whereabouts of the detained leaders.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Day 149 - Sept. 3rd
- Darfuri groups and organizations in Darfur have protested the census in Darfur, reported Radio Dabanga this morning. The Radio said that Darfuri political parties in Darfur accused the ruling party, National Congress Party (NCP),of fraud in allocating the geographical seats where NCP intentionally ignored densely populated areas (non-supporters of the GoS) and allocated seats to empty geographical areas (in preparation to rig the elections in favor of GoS).
- Merchant Ahmed Abdallah (known as Azhary Sukker) was kidnapped in daylight in the largest city of Darfur, ElFasher, by armed militia, Radio Dabanga said today. The merchant was on his way from his his store to the bank to deposit large amount of money ( 8 million Sudanese Pounds) when he was intercepted by armed men on a pick-up. The armed men drove with him out of town where they took the money and then dropped him.
- Merchant Ahmed Abdallah (known as Azhary Sukker) was kidnapped in daylight in the largest city of Darfur, ElFasher, by armed militia, Radio Dabanga said today. The merchant was on his way from his his store to the bank to deposit large amount of money ( 8 million Sudanese Pounds) when he was intercepted by armed men on a pick-up. The armed men drove with him out of town where they took the money and then dropped him.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Day 148 - Sept. 2nd
- The Darfuri refugees in the camps in Eastern Chad issued a statement asking the African Leaders convening in Tripoli, Libya, to support the efforts of the International Criminal Court (ICC)to arrest the President of Sudan, reported Radio Dabanga. The ICC has issued arrest warrant of the President of Sudan, AlBashir, on 4th of March of this year. A refugee from the camp of Abu Nabag told Radio Dabanga that the African Leaders have a moral obligation to arrest Albashir for the sake of justice for the victims of Darfur.
- The Internal Displaced Persons (IDP) in the camp of Graidah complained to Radio Dabanga that they are facing acute shortage in foods. A leader in the camp told Radio Dabanga that now for more than a month they haven't received any food rations from the World Food Program.
- Human rights activist, Abdel Mageed Sahlih still his whereabout is not known. he was kidnapped by the security agents on Sunday 8/30 and his colleagues fear he will be subjected to torture and abuse. Salih is a Darfuri activist.
- The Internal Displaced Persons (IDP) in the camp of Graidah complained to Radio Dabanga that they are facing acute shortage in foods. A leader in the camp told Radio Dabanga that now for more than a month they haven't received any food rations from the World Food Program.
- Human rights activist, Abdel Mageed Sahlih still his whereabout is not known. he was kidnapped by the security agents on Sunday 8/30 and his colleagues fear he will be subjected to torture and abuse. Salih is a Darfuri activist.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Day 147 - Sept. 1st
- In Khartoum, the security agents of Government of Sudan (GoS) kidnapped a Darfuri activist AbdelMagid Salih with another friend and their whereabouts is not known. A reliable source said that the security agents have been trailing Salih lately and last time seen he was on his way to meet with some Darfuri women victims of rape. Salih is known as human rights activist and was instrumental in keeping the outside world informed about the human rights abuses against Darfuris in Darfur and Khartoum the capital.
- More than 400 Darfuris students in the universities Khartoum will become homeless today in Khartoum. The GoS refused to pay the rent for these students (females and males) starting September 1st. It is part of the peace agreement ( Darfur Peace Agreement) that the GoS through students fund trustee to pay the cost of living for students from Darfur who study in the universities and high education institutes in Khartoum. The war in Darfur has deprived Darfur students from continuing the college education, but GoS is, directly or indirectly, impeding the education of Darfuris in Khartoum.
- The kidnappers of the UNAMID personnel in Darfur are asking for $5 million as ransom.
- More than 400 Darfuris students in the universities Khartoum will become homeless today in Khartoum. The GoS refused to pay the rent for these students (females and males) starting September 1st. It is part of the peace agreement ( Darfur Peace Agreement) that the GoS through students fund trustee to pay the cost of living for students from Darfur who study in the universities and high education institutes in Khartoum. The war in Darfur has deprived Darfur students from continuing the college education, but GoS is, directly or indirectly, impeding the education of Darfuris in Khartoum.
- The kidnappers of the UNAMID personnel in Darfur are asking for $5 million as ransom.
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