Press Release/Commentary by JEM posted on August 17, 2006 at 18:34:26: EST (-5 GMT)

Press Release: AU Effectively Dismantles the CFC and the JC in Darfur

Dr. Abdullahi Osman El-Tom, JEM
August 17th, 2006

In a reckless move, the AU suspended the DPA non-signatories from the CFC (Ceasefire Commission) and the Joint Commission (JC). The non-signatories consist of JEM, the G19 and other members of the National Redemption Front (NRF). Given the might of the block made of these bodies in Darfur conflict, the decision effectively dismantles the CFC, the JC and all related ceasefire Agreements and Protocols that have been painfully negotiated in Darfur crisis.

Much more ominously, the AU decision also puts an end to any claim to neutrality which the AU enjoyed and which continued despite the Abuja May 5th fiasco. Bizzare as it may be, an AU statement on the matter reads: “the government of Sudan declared that it cannot guarantee the security of the personnel of the non-signatory parties in the Ceasefire Commission”. Rather than challenge the GoS and attempt to patch ceasefire agreements in Darfur, the AU effectively disowns any claim to residual neutrality and turns itself into an executive body for Albashir’s junta.

The NRF holds the AU responsible for any negative outcome that follows this shameful turn of events.

Dr. Abdullahi Osman El-Tom, JEM
August 17th, 2006