Sudan Tribune

June 29, 2017 (WAU) – The minister for physical infrastructure in South Sudan's Wau state, Peter Upieu said three companies were awarded the contract to rehabilitate Jur River Bridge with work expected to begin next week.

A bridge between Juba and kajo-Keji road (sshada)

The minister said rehabilitation of the project, to be undertaken by the German-owned Mediterranean Company, would cost $12 million.

“There is a company called Mediterranean, it is a Germany company working in South Africa. The is a national company called Trist Stars and another sub-contracted company called Ayat which is well known in Wau and South Sudan,” he said.

Rehabilitation of the bridge is expected to take eight months.

The project consultant engineer, Lolik Ladu said the foundation of the bridge will be handled by Mediterranean would deal with the foundation while Ayat will handle roads and supply the materials.

“The contract was handed over to Trist Stars who will be using Mediterranean and Ayat as sub-contracting companies,” he said.

Last year, a high level delegation from the national government led by the Road and Bridges minister, Rebecca Joshua Okuaci visited Wau to inspect the bridge, which was nearly collapsing.

The facility, built in 1973, has already developed some technical problems.

It is currently the only bridge in South Sudan, which connects Northern Bahr el Ghazal to Abyei region and Sudan to the west of the young nation.

(ST)

June 29, 2017 (KHARTOUM) - Seven U.S. groups called on the Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to take into account the lack of religious freedoms and the persecution of religious minorities in Sudan in the ongoing process for the lift of economic embargo on the east African country.

By the 12 July, based on an interagency report including the State Department the President Donald Trump is expected to issue a decision on whether to maintain or to remove the lift of economic sanctions on Sudan.

According to an agreement reached by the administration of the former President Barak Obama, the process includes five tracks: the fight against terrorism, cessation of hostilities in the conflict areas, humanitarian access, Uganda's Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), Sudan's role in the peace process in South.

The seven groups voiced that Sudanese religious and ethnic minority groups and faith-based charitable organisations face discrimination, detention, violence, and the destruction of churches by the regime in Khartoum.

"Substantial minority of Sudanese do not follow the state-endorsed school of Islam," said the statement adding that those residing in the Nuba Mountains of South Kordofan state, and southernmost parts of the Blue Nile state face discrimination and deprived of their rights due to their religious convictions.

The signatories further reminded that Sudan is designated a Country of Particular Concern by the U.S. State Department since 1999 and that the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom recommending that Sudan remains on the list in its 2016 review.

"This critical issue of religious freedom must be addressed in U.S. policy, and we urge the State Department both to be cognizant of this issue in relation to its current reporting as well as create a new track engagement with the Sudanese Government that is centered on issues of peace and human rights that fully addresses the conduct of the Sudanese Government in relation to religious freedom and the persecution of religious minorities," they stressed.

The signatories of the call are Enough Project, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, Foundation for Defense of Democracies, National Association of Evangelicals, Samaritan's Purse, Sudan Relief Fund and Sudanese Human Rights Initiative.

U.S. Chargé d'Affaires in Khartoum recently brushed aside calls to link the normalisation process of bilateral relations with the situation of human rights in Sudan saying the process embargo aimed to end Khartoum's support for terrorist groups and bring peace in Darfur.

However, rights groups again and again keep calling on the need to define a new track for peace and human rights in Sudan before to decide on the permanent lift of sanctions.

Enough Project Founding Director John Prendergast who was part of President Clinton's Administration when the embargo was decided in 997 went to say that the sanctions were driven by a desire to impose a consequence for the regime's atrocious human rights record.

State Department officials who are backing the lift of sanctions say the lift of embargo aims to bring Khartoum to cooperate with Washington on other files, stressing that sanctions approach has been proved unproductive.

(ST)

June 29, 2017 (ABYEI) – The United Nations Interim Security Force in Abyei (UNISFA) on Monday facilitated the retrieval and handing-over of the 58 stolen herd of cattle to its rightful owner, a Ngok Dinka pastoralist in Todach village, 17 kilometres north from Abyei

An officer from the UN peacekeeping mission in Abyei (UNISFA) on patrol in the disputed region, which is claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan (AFP)

Ngok Dinka leaders and Misseriya pastoralist groups from the eastern, southern and central migration corridors expressed their gratitude to UNISFA for the efforts in combating cattle rustling.

“With the absence of a functioning government in our area, we are truly grateful that UNISFA is around to help deal with criminal activities such as cattle rustling, a problem that has haunted us for so many years and has been the source of disputes and clashes between individuals and communities,” said Jahid Omer, the head of the pastoralists in the eastern corridor of Abyei region.

“The United Nations is here in Abyei to protect you and all communities living here, as well as your properties. We exert all efforts to ensure that you run a normal and secure life,” Brig Gen Assefa Gebru Workneh, UNISFA Chief Liaison Officer for Abyei, emphasized during the hand-over ceremony.

Alan Doyle, UNISFA's Chief of Mission Support and Col Hailu Gebrehiwot, the North Sector commander attended the event.

“We will continue to keep an eye out for any potential rustlers during the reverse migration,” Gen Assefa assured the pastoralists.

The owner of the livestock, Majej Tong Ngor, conveyed his appreciation to UNISFA troops for retrieving some of his animals.

“I lost 264 animals during a raid on 18 June this year in Arik area near Athony. I hope that over the next weeks, they will be able to facilitate the retrieval of the rest of the stolen animals,” said Ngor.

UNISFA said with the coordination and cooperation from communities in the Abyei area, its hopes to retrieve the rest of the stolen livestock in weeks to come.

Ngok Dinka leaders and Misseriya pastoralist groups expressed concerns over the proper handling of criminals or animal rustlers.

“We want them to be arrested and handed over to the traditional courts, given the absence of a police service in Abyei. We will continue to cooperate with UNISFA to minimize, if not to stop, these cattle rustling activities,” Omer stated.

Cattle rustling is one of the biggest challenges facing communities in the Abyei. Since the start of 2017, three major cases of cattle rustling and one case of cattle killing were reported to UNISFA.

(ST)

June 29, 2017 (WASHINGTON) - As it was announced in the decision of the African Union earlier this month, the UN Security Council Thursday reduced the peacekeepers deployed in Darfur region. But it stressed that the end of the hybrid mission can only be decided after the signing of a lasting peace deal.

The 15-member body adopted Resolution 2363, in which it extended the mandate of the UN-African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) until 30 June 2018.

Also, the Council also decided that from 31 January next year, UNAMID's troop and police ceiling shall be reduced to consist of up to 8,735 military personnel and 2,500 police personnel, including individual police officers and members of formed police units.

The decision was taken upon a joint review conducted by the African Union and the United Nations underscoring the improvement of the relative security situation on the grounds and the drastic reduction of violence.

Nonetheless, it pointed to the existence of several holdout groups that the government needs to reach a negotiated settlement with them and the presence of nearly two million internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the camps since 2003.

In response to the Sudanese government's demand for an exit strategy end the presence of Darfur peacekeeping operation, the Council, however, mentioned the need to fulfil the benchmarks defined it is previous resolutions particularity the conclusion of a political agreement with the armed groups.

The Council "takes note that the Secretary-General, in his report of 26 May 2015 (S/2015/378), emphasises that a political settlement in Darfur and direct talks between Government and the non-signatory armed movements, starting with a cessation of hostilities in Darfur, is essential to re-establishing peace in Darfur and is primary to the achievement of these benchmarks," reads the resolution.

Also, in order to monitor the impact of troops withdrawal, the resolution asks to report to the Council every 60 days on the political, humanitarian and security situation in Darfur, including attacks against civilians, especially sexual and gender-based violence.

Based on this reports, the Council can decide to stop the troops' withdrawal if there is a recrudescence of violence against civilians or a renewal of intercommunal fighting.

The Sudanese ambassador to the United Nations praised the reduction of UNAMID troops and called to support the government efforts for development in the region.
He also said that Darfur today is free of armed groups and pointed to rebel "attempts to destabilise peace and security" last May, stressing on the readiness of Sudanese government troops to support peace and protect civilians.

The Sudanese diplomat further pledged to cooperate with the UNAMID to achieve its mandate.

However, a human rights expert and a Senior Policy Advisor at Enough Project, Omer Ismail regretted the troops' cuts saying it was based on " a fundamentally flawed analysis of the situation in Darfur".

He said the withdrawal of troops from many areas while still exists a high risk of conflict potentially endangers the lives of civilians.

"The withdrawal of these UNAMID military forces and the closure of bases will make several key areas unsafe for humanitarian operations," he stressed.

According to the resolution, the hybrid mission will be reduced by withdrawing the military personnel by 44% and that of the police component by 30%, the closure of 11 team sites in the first phase and the withdrawal of the military component from another 7 team sites in the second phase.

An international official told the AFP that the cuts in the 13 peacekeeping missions have been decided as a result of U.S. pressure.

The U.S., which is the biggest financial contributor to the peacekeeping operations, announced it would cut nearly $1.3 billion of its contribution to the UN peacekeeping operations.

(ST)

June 29, 2017 (JUBA) - Members of South Sudan's armed opposition faction (SPLM-IO) in Australia have disowned their leader, William Orule, after the announced his defection the country's First Vice-President, Taban Deng Gai.

South Sudan first vice president Taban Deng Gai arrives in Bor May 9, 2017 (ST)

Orule, who headed the armed opposition faction in Australia, declared allegiance to Gai amid criticisms from the other group members.

The armed opposition faction, in a statement, strongly criticized Orule's move to join a rival faction led by its former chief negotiator.

“We would like to inform the public, the region and the world at large that the IO movement respects the right of individual who decides to leave or join us. This is a core principle of our democracy and freedom of choices or speech. Comrades Orule had decided to leave. We view this as his right. Let continue the fight against genocide regime as usual,” partly reads the statement.

Some members of the armed opposition faction, however, vowed to continue backing former First Vice-President, Riek Machar despite what they referred to as his “illegal” detention in South Africa.

South Sudan was plunged into conflict in December 2013 as the rivalry between President Kiir and Machar, turned into a civil war. Since then, the fighting, which has often been along ethnic lines, triggered Africa's worst refugee crisis, with over three million people fleeing their homes.

(ST)

June 29, 2017 (JUBA) - South Sudan President, Salva Kiir on Thursday convened an emergency security meeting, a day after unknown gunmen killed nine people and wounded dozens on Juba-Bor road.

The security meeting chaired by President Salva Kiir in the capital, Juba, June 29, 2017 (ST)

The victims, mainly traders, were travelling from Mogiri to Juba. The attack occurred at Kubri Muhandisin, about 8 kilometers from the capital, Juba.

A number of officials, who included First Vice-President Taban Deng Gai attended the meeting held at the army headquarters in Bilpam.

South Sudan's interior minister, Michael Chiangjiek Geay the meeting was convened to tackle causes of increased insecurity in the nation.

President Kiir, the minister said, asked the committee to investigate the Juba-Bor road incident in which nine civilians lost their lives.

The president tasked the committee to investigate increased insecurity and to report back within nine days, the minister stated.

The Mangala county commissioner, Elario Paul Fataki said one person died from Juba Teaching hospital, making it nine in total.

Fataki called on the transitional government of national unity to work hard in collaboration with the local leaders to improve on security on the Juba- Bor road where several people have died in recent days.

The meeting was also attended by ministers of National Security, Interior, Petroleum, Finance, Justice, deputy Defense Minister, Chief of Defense Forces, Inspector General of Police, Head of Criminal Investigation Department, Director of Military Intelligence and Boma state governor, Ismail Konyi.

Road ambushes are common in South Sudan. Last month, a similar attack on Juba-Bor road claimed over 20 people, mainly women and children.

(ST)

June 29, 2017 (JUBA) – The National Dialogue Committee Co-Chairman Angelo Beda, flanked by several senior officials, Wednesday arrived in South Africa to consult with the exiled former First Vice President turned rebel leader, Riek Machar.

South Sudan's rebel leader Riek Machar addresses a press conference in his private residence in Addis Ababa, Saturday, Feb. 13, 2016. (Photo AP/Mulugete Ayehe)

The delegation is yet to arrange how and when it will meet Machar in coordination with authorities of the host country.

Machar has been under solitary confinement since he left Sudan for South Africa. His departure was decided by the IGAD leader and backed by the American administration. However, South Sudanese officials say his accommodations are paid by Juba.

Officials in Juba, in the past months, said they do not want to involve the rebel leader personally in any negotiated settlement and suggested that he can designate any of his aides to represent him.

Beda told Sudan Tribune on Thursday that the delegation comprises himself, former Agriculture Minister Betty Achan Ogwaro, Rev. Mathiang, former Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Lily Albino Akol Akol, and former permanent representative to the United Nations Francis Mading Deng as well as several other officials

The delegation, he said, met President Kiir before they left the country.

“Our mission for coming here is not secret, we went to President Salva Kiir before we left and he approved. So we are here for one mission, to bring peace and stability to the country,” said Beda.

The co-chair went on to talk about the objectives of the visit and whether he and his team were to meet with Machar directly.

"We cannot afford to let the country go down the way it is before our own eyes. We have therefore taken it upon ourselves and with trust and confidence in Almighty God the Father, our mission will be successful".

He said they want to meet with Riek Machar and his groups to consult with them and to hear their views, adding they are preparing to do the same thing with other stakeholders.

The elder politician stressed that such political engagements, with various stakeholders, will help the committee gain first-hand perspectives and will go on to form the agenda of the National Dialogue.

The SPLM-IO leader has several times repeated they believe that the national dialogue cannot replace talks on the implementation of 2015 peace agreement.

Also, the Former Detainees faction point to the need to end the war and to agree on the implementation of the peace agreement, stressing all these measures can create a conducive environment for the national dialogue.

(ST)

June 22, 2017 (JUBA) - South Sudan's ambassador to Nigeria, Riek Puok has dismissed as “fake” reports that he was arrested at Cairo airport after he was allegedly found in possession of huge money.

South Sudan's foreign affairs spokesperson, Mawien Makol (Photo: Citizen News)

Puok, in a statement, said information circulating that he carried $40,000 while enroute to Juba from Nigeria has completely surprised him.

“I wish I could have the amount ($40,000). It would make my leave even more enjoyable. The news is wrong. The figure reported is not right. The main point is that I am fine and traveled safely to my final destination with all my belongings and luggage,” he said Thursday.

The ambassador said the report was “inconsistent” to actual facts.

“I was not caught but was almost robbed and the robbery went wrong. I am on a personal leave. The money I have is total mine and not looted ($17,000)”, he further explained on his Facebook page.

However, despite the ambassador's denial, a security source was quoted saying the South Sudanese diplomat caused a commotion at Cairo International Airport after being stopped from carrying $ 40,000, prompting security officials at Cairo airport to contact Egypt's deputy assistant foreign affairs minister for diplomatic passports, Ashraf Munir, who advised Puok to abide by the Egyptian laws.

South Sudan's foreign affairs ministry also confirmed that its ambassador to Nigeria was stopped by Egyptian officials on Sunday.

The ministry's spokesman Mawien Makol told Radio Tamazuj that they asked their ambassador in Cairo to look into the issue.

“The ambassador's [Puok] flight was cancelled because he was carrying a lot of money. You know the ambassador did not inform the South Sudanese embassy in Cairo when he was returning back to Juba,” he said.

Makol, however, said the ministry was not aware of the money in possession of its ambassador to Nigeria, stressing that the South Sudanese envoy to Nigeria was in Cairo on a private mission.

(ST)

June 22, 2017 (JUBA) – A maiden meeting for the newly formed Republican Party of South Sudan (RPSS) has pledged to lead a non-violent change process in the world's youngest nation.

The Republican Party of South Sudan leader Lewis Anei speaking to reporters (ST)

Members of the new party, at their meeting, also elected Lewis Anei Kuendit, a former governor of Warrap state, as the party's chairperson.

Kuendit, who spoke to reporters soon after his election, described South Sudan ruling party (SPLM) as a “failed” and “deformed” party.

The meeting of about 500 members also passed the party's constitution, by-laws as well as the new party's manifesto.

Kuendit, a career politician, formed RPSS in February this year.

Describing the new party as “a result of the ongoing political situation” of war in South Sudan and propagated its objectives on nonviolent, inclusivity and fighting corruption, Kuendit said the RPSS met the registration requirements set forth by South Sudans' Political Parties Council, which included the signatures of at least 4,000 supporters from at least eight of South Sudan's former 10 states.

He reiterated demands for political space in the East African country where political dissents are reportedly not tolerated.

“We are a nonviolent party that has come to make a peaceful change in the country. This country needs someone with a program to lead, fight corruption and ensure inclusive participation of all citizens through democratic elections,” he said.

Kuendit wondered why the South Sudanese ruling party now consisted of different factions who oppose its original ideology.

“How many factions of the SPLM are out there now? SPLM in government, SPLM in Opposition, SPLM former political detainees and SPLM Democratic Change,” explained the RPSS chairman.

“We cannot change the SPLM from within because there is too much stagnation and there is a ruling clique within the SPLM. We cannot salvage the SPLM, but we are salvaging the nation,” he added.

The official blamed South Sudan's president Salva Kiir, saying his
“failed” leadership created war that displaced millions of people.

“We are asking the youth, who are being killed by failed leadership that created war that this is your party,” he added.

Kuendit, a former member of the Jieng Council (JCE) of elders, downplayed the potential obstacles his party members would encounter in the course of opposing Kiirs' security apparatus.

The meeting was attended by politicians from other smaller opposition parties. The SPLM declined an invitation to attend.

(ST)

June 23, 2017 (KHARTOUM) - Sudanese President Omer al-Bashir Thursday discussed with the new crown prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, bilateral relations and regional developments.

Last Monday, al-Bashir arrived in Jeddah to meet with King Salam over the ongoing split with Sudan's close regional ally Qatar.

However, on Wednesday morning, the Saudi monarch appointed his son, Mohammed, as new Crown Prince, in a major reshuffle in the country.

The Saudi Press Agency said al-Bashir congratulated the Crown Prince for his selection adding that the meeting reviewed cooperation between the Saudi Arabia and Sudan in various fields, and discussed developments in the region.

The Crown Prince further accompanied al-Bashir to Jeddah Airport as he ended his four-day to Saudi Arabia.

No reports filtered about al-Bashir talks on the split with Qatar.

Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt and Bahrain severed diplomatic ties with Qatar over alleged accusations that Doha was supporting terrorist groups who are threats to the region's peace and security including Hamas. Also, they say that Qatar is siding Iran. But, Doha rejects all these accusations.

The Associated Press reported in the early morning of Friday that Saudi Arabia and two other Gulf countries demand that Qatar cut ties with Iran and close Al-Jazeera TV channel.

The 13 point list further demands the closure of a Turkish military base in Qatar, and to sever all ties with the Muslim Brotherhood and with other groups including Hezbollah, al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.

The new agency indicated that it " obtained a copy of the list in Arabic from one of the countries involved in the dispute".

The presentation of the list is considered by the U.S. backed Kuwaiti mediators as the first step for indirect talks between the four Gulf countries to end the split

(ST)

June 22, 2017 (KHARTOUM) - Sudanese First Vice President and Prime Minister Bakri Hassan Salih discussed the lift of economic sanctions on Sudan with the U.S. Chargé d'Affaires, Steven Koutsis on Thursday.

The meeting took place after a three-day visit by the American diplomat to three states in the western Sudan region of Darfur where he inspected the humanitarian situation of the internally displaced civilians and South Sudanese refugees.

In press statements after the meeting reported by the official news agency SUNA, Koutsis said he briefed the First Vice President on his visit to Darfur and discussed with him bilateral relations.

"The meeting touched on the Sudanese-US relations, especially the (permanent) lifting of the US sanctions on Sudan," said the Chargé d'Affires.

He said he spoke with FVP about the positive developments and the stability in the region.

The diplomat further said they discussed the presence of the hybrid peacekeeping mission in Darfur (UNAMID), which would be reduced by a half soon. He added that Taha pledged that his government would play its role in maintaining security and stability in Darfur.

Sudanese officials seem confident that the President Donald Trump would approve the permanent revocation of the economic embargo on Sudan on 12 July.

Last week, Bloomberg reported that U. S. officials involved in the process are supportive for the permanent lift of sanctions on Sudan.

A week before to leave office on 13 January 2017, former President Barak Obama decided to reduce some economic sanction on Sudan, saying it would be effective next July after an interagency report on Khartoum's commitment to a five track deal concluded between the two countries.

Obama was keen to indicate that the decision intends to acknowledge Sudan's efforts to reduce internal conflict, improve humanitarian access to people requiring aid and curtail "terrorism".

On Thursday, the International Crisis Group (ICG) backed the lift of sanctions on Sudan pointing that Washington should continue to press Khartoum for political reforms.

The independent group stressed that the east African country did limited progress but the revocation at least would bring the Sudanese government to cooperate with Washington and boost the American leverage.

The U.S. “should also make clear that it stands ready to impose new targeted financial sanctions should Khartoum renege on its commitments,” the ICG said on Thursday.

Officials at the State Department insist that Washington has sufficient sanctions and measures at hand to punish Khartoum, adding the lift of embargo will bring the Sudanese government to cooperate with them in its efforts to end the war and achieve democratic reforms.

However, the Enough Project doesn't agree with this soft approach and called on President Donald Trump to delay his decision.

In a report released on Thursday, the group said that " the senior U.S. government officials responsible for Africa policy who would typically play central roles in such an important decision are not yet in place, and thus are unable to weigh in on this critical decision".

"A six-month delay in the decision would give the Trump administration time to pursue a separate, new and independent track for peace and human rights in Sudan," said John Prendergast, Founding Director at the Enough Project.

The report further says that Washington lacks " the verifiable information" confirming that Khartoum has observed the agreed five-tracks.

Pointing Khartoum's commitment to protect civilians in Darfur, Omer Ismail, Senior Policy Advisor at the Enough Project said "there is ample evidence of the Sudanese government's disregard of the safety of civilians or outright targeting of civilians,'' he said pointing to the attacks by government army and militias.

(ST)

June 22, 2017 (JUBA) – South Sudan and Sudan have extended for one year a memorandum of understanding allowing river and land transit of international humanitarian assistance for the South Sudanese civilians.

“My colleague, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid in Sudan has agreed to extend our cooperation on humanitarian delivery for one more year to enable the World Food Programme (WFP) to transport relief from Sudan to South Sudan,” said Paul Dhel Gum, the Deputy Commissioner of South Sudan Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (SSRRC).

Mohamed Elsinari Mustafa and Paul Dhel Gum signed a commitment that was witnessed by representatives of the United Nations WFP in both South Sudan and Sudan. Tito Nikodimos, along with Peter Schaller represented the WFP Sudan.

The memorandum of understanding will come into effect from 1 July 2017- 30 June 2018. According to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the UN WFP will submit a corridor operation projections to Sudan to deliver up to 900,000 metric tonnes of food assistance from July 2017 to June 2018.

The government of Sudan will authorise air delivery from El-Obeid as an alternative mode of delivery to areas where it is needed in South Sudan. The transport from Kosti will also be used in coordination with the knowledge and in coordination with the government of South Sudan.

Last April, Sudan accepted to open an Airbridge to deliver food assistance to South Sudan during the rainy season.

In July 2014, the two countries signed a MoU to open a humanitarian corridor to deliver food assistance to vulnerable South Sudanese through the Nile river or by road.

The cross-border operation allows the World Foord Programmes (WFP) to reduce the costly airlift or airdrop operations in a time where the international agency faces serious financial challenges.

(ST)

By Tesfa-Alem Tekle

June 22, 2017 (ADDIS ABABA) - An Army General along with a group of 9 officers from the opposition faction of Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement (SPLM-IO) led by former Vice President, Riek Machar defect to join the faction of First Vice President Taban Deng Gai.

In a telephone conversation with Sudan Tribune, SPLM-IO Taban faction Army spokesperson, Dickson Gatluak said Brigadier General, Okot David Awai and the 9 officers arrived in the capital, Juba, Thursday afternoon from Kampala when an Ethiopian Airlines passenger plane they boarded on touched down at Juba Airport around 11 pm local time.

Upon arrival, the group of defectors were welcomed by Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth, Minister of Petroleum and top Army officials.

Their defection, Gatluak said was in response to country's call for peace.

The 10 defectors are mainly from the Acholli tribe.

The group of defectors will tomorrow meet FVP Deng in his office.

The latest defection comes as the youngest African nation struggles to bring about lasting peace and reconstitute the government and Taban faction armies under one unified command.

"Their return home demonstrates the level of commitment FVP Taban Deng attaches to the implementation of the compromised peace agreement" Said Gatluak.

FVP Taban Deng says his faction as a movement has duty and responsibility to bring back home all military officers and cadres who left the country following the civil war that erupted over 3 years ago.

"We urge all military commanders who took up arms against the government to return home and join the peace process," said Gatkuak.

He said the return of the deserters is a major step forward for the nation to rejoice for peace and stability to prevail in war-torn South Sudan.

"It further boosts the morale of forces and will bring the Army of SPLM-IO and the entire Army in South Sudan"

General Okot is one of the well-known Generals within Machar faction's Army.

Okot was a commander in charge of Magwi Brigade 9th in Anyanya division in Eastern Equatoria.

He was demoted and dismissed by Machar over allegations that the General had links with Juba.

Since South Sudan has fallen back into a bloody civil war in December 2013, some 1.8 million civilians fled to neighbouring countries.

UN chief, Antonio Guterres, Thursday urged South Sudanese leaders to end the war.

"South Sudan leaders haven't deserved the people they have," said Guterres after paying a visit to a refugee camp in northern Uganda.

He will participate in a UN-backed summit aimed at raising global awareness of South Sudan crisis in Kampala on Friday.

Uganda currently shelters around 900,000 South Sudan refugees most women and children who most arrived in the past year.

The UN said it needs USD 8 billion to help refugees and host communities over next four years.

(ST)

June 22, 2017 (ADDIS ABABA) - A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on peaceful uses of atomic energy Thursday was signed by the Ethiopian State Minister of Science and Technology, Afework Kassu Gizaw, and Russian Deputy Director General of ROSATOM Nikolai Spasskiy.

The first deal of its kind between the two countries was signed within the framework of IX International Forum ATOMEXPO 2017

“It envisages a bilateral cooperation in a wide range of spheres, i.e. development of nuclear infrastructure in Ethiopia, programs for raising public awareness of nuclear technologies and its application, radioisotopes and radio technologies' application in industrial, medical, agricultural sectors,” said Ethiopian Foreign Ministry.

The agreement embraces collaboration in nuclear, radiological and physical security, fundamental and applied researches, HR training, nuclear research centres based on multi-functional research reactors.

The joint working group of Russia and Ethiopia will define the scope of work for implementation of the initiatives mentioned above.

The parties agreed to cooperate in the feasibility of implementing common projects referred to the development of collaboration in peaceful uses of atomic energy was agreed to be developed under the Memorandum.

Among others, atomic energy could be used in the areas of power generation, healthcare, agriculture, food preservation, industry and research.

The State Atomic Energy Corporation ROSATOM is a Russian publicly-owned corporation, which is the leader in the global nuclear technologies market.

It brings together nuclear power and power engineering assets, as well as NPP design and construction. ROSATOM is the largest electricity generating company in Russia, producing 196.37 billion kWh of electricity in 2016 (or 18.3% of the country's total generation of electricity).

ROSATOM holds first place for the largest portfolio of foreign construction projects (34 NPPs in 12 countries). ROSATOM produces annually approximately 3,000 tonnes of uranium domestically, and some 5,000 tonnes in other countries.

ROSATOM with its 1/3 world market share takes the lead in global uranium enrichment services and covers 17.7% of the global nuclear fuel market

ROSATOM brings together over 300 enterprises and organisations, including the world's only nuclear icebreaker fleet. ROSATOM is tasked with implementing the uniform state policy on the uses of atomic energy as well as fulfilling the Russian Federation's international obligations on the peaceful uses of atomic energy.

(ST)

June 22, 2017 (JUBA) - Bad governance, corruption and lack of accountability in public institutions was the major cause of divisions and the ongoing war in South Sudan, a senior minister said on Thursday.

S. Sudan cabinet affairs minister Martin Elia Lomoro (Photo KT Press)

The cabinet affairs minister, Martin Elia Lomuro made these remarks while speaking at a consultative symposium on good governance and democracy organised by the parliamentary affairs ministry.

He said the conflict, bad governance, corruption and nepotism caused the conflict that has killed thousands and displaced millions.

“I know all sorts of malpractices in the government have contributed negatively to the perception of the citizens and the challenges of infancy of any young country. And addressing these issues now require political will to adopt and embrace practices aimed at encouraging democratic governance to make sure all government institutions are functioning according to rules and processes”, said Lomuro.

According to the minister, all the people of South Sudan, including the church and the existing mosques, should all rise against corruption instead of pointing accusing fingers and passing the buck.

Fighting corruption, he said, was not a popular agenda, but an apparent realisation of the negative impact of corruption has promoted the fight against graft as a measure of good governance.

“We must take away the proceeds of illicit enrichment and remove negative role models in our society. I know that each arm of government has its responsibility and we must respect the separation of powers under our constitution,” said Lomuro.

“At the same time, we must have an acute and common perception of our problem and do all that is necessary to mitigate the impact of corruption in our society”, he added.

Lomuro said fighting corruption was to correct certain wrong doings.

“The aim of fighting corruption is most importantly, to remedy the dark sides of bad governance, such as poverty, unemployment, hunger and disease, as well as improving the well-being of the citizens, hence, we must pay equal attention to the economy which is the bedrock of all-round development,” stressed the minister.

“The beginning of getting leadership right is to make the electoral system transparent and credible to ensure that only the choices of the people are actually elected into electable political offices,” he added.

Meanwhile the parliamentary affairs minister, Peter Bashir Gbandi challenged public institutions to come up with clear actions plans and strategies capable of helping to resolve the leadership challenge in the country to usher in the desired development.

He, however, called on government officials and lawmakers to lead the way through effective leadership for a solid footing for the country's citizens to see.

(ST)

June 22, 2017 (KHARTOUM) - The Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) Agar called on the American administration under President Donald Trump to invite Sudanese opposition forces to Washington to discuss peace in Sudan.

The call comes after reports about a consultations meeting that the Cater Center plans to hold next July in Atlanta, Georgia between the warring parties in Sudan to explore ways to support the stalled African Union efforts for peace in Sudan.

In a statement extended to Sudan Tribune on Thursday, the SPLM-N Agar spokesperson, Mubarak Ardol, warned against the use of Cater meeting to cover the lift on the economic embargo.

"If the opposition is invited to Washington why it is not invited by the (American) Administration as the former administration has been inviting the regime? And this should be apart from any meetings with the government," said Ardol.

He further said that such a meeting will provide the opportunity for the opposition to present its point of view, in particular, there is a new administration with which they would like to raise the opposition's view on Sudan's current situation.

Last Sunday, Gibril Ibrahim the leader of Justice and Equality Movement, confirmed to Sudan Tribune they had been approached by the Carter Center for the meeting but he stressed they do not expect the meeting takes place soon, adding they have not yet received an official invitation until now.

Ardol said they didn't receive an invitation from the Cater Center for the consultations.

But he added they had been reached by international circles to explore our views on the initiative of Carter Center to gather the government and the opposition to meet in Atlanta, Georgia, "and asked questions from the Carter Center about how to represent the SPLM-N".

In December 2016, the SPLM-N declined an invitation by the Carter Center for a workshop in Nairobi to discuss how to bring peace in Sudan gathering the opposition forces.

The African Union High-Level Implementation Pane (AUHIP)has been seeking to end the conflict for several years. However, since last August, the peace talks are deadlocked over the cessation of hostilities and humanitarian access deals.

Already, Germany and Uganda had organised unofficial consultations meetings between the government and armed opposition groups in order to narrow the gaps between the warring parties without tangible progress.

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June 21, 2017(BOR) - The Rome-based Vatican has announced a $500,000 donation from Pope Francis to support South Sudan crisis.

Pope Francis recieves the flag of South Sudan from Choul Laam (Vatican photo)

The donation, according to a statement, would be channelled through Caritas along with other two Catholic groups working in South Sudan to support education, health and agriculture projects in the country.

Caritas International made this announcement on 21 June.

South Sudan, the United Nations say, has nearly 2 million people are on the brink of starvation and that an estimated 6 million people were likely to experience severe food insecurity in the coming weeks.

“The Holy Father does not forget the unheard and silent victims of this bloody and in human conflict, and he does not forget all those people who are forced to flee their native country as a result of abuse, injustice and war,” partly reads Caritas's statement.

Caritas International's Secretary General, Michel Roy said the Pope wants much more to be done to end the suffering in South Sudan.

“The world needs to follow the example of Pope Francis and not abandon South Sudan,” said Roy.

He called for an increase in humanitarian support for South Sudan.

The donation from the Pontiff will reportedly cover three projects, including supporting two hospitals run by the Comboni sisters in Wau and Tombura in Gbudue states. Others are for the purchase of seeds and tools in Tombura, Yei, Torit, Malakai and Juba for 2,250 families.

Also earmarked to benefit from the fund are teachers, nurses, midwives, agriculturalists and the community leaders in Yambio.

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June 22, 2017 (RUMBEK) – At least 35 people have been killed in revenge attacks that occurred in South Sudan's Western Lakes state between Rup and Pakam communities of Rumbek Central county.

Map detail showing South Sudan's Lakes state in red

The clashes, local officials told Sudan Tribune, erupted when a pastoralist was reportedly shot dead by a suspected armed youth.

Up to 40 people were reportedly wounded during the same attack.

A Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officer in Rumbek County described it as the ever fight that ended without state intervention.

Meanwhile the Commissioner of Alor County, Stephen Mathiang Deng denied allegations that security forces failed to intervene.

He urged the national government to seek a quick solution to end cycles of revenge attacks in Western Lakes state capital, Rumbek.

Cycles of revenge attacks become rampant in the region in the aftermath of Matur Chut Dhuol's re-appointment as governor by President Salva Kiir early this year. Dhuol replaced Abraham Makoi Bol.

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June 21, 2017 (KHARTOUM) - U.S. Chargé d'Affaires, Steven Koutsis Wednesday reiterated the support of his country for a stable Sudan, adding that the African Union roadmap remains the only way for a peaceful solution.

Koutsis made his remarks at the end of a three-day visit to North, Central and East Darfur states that he described as "fruitful".

He said the visit enabled him to see the consequences of war and the positives effects of humanitarian assistance to the civilians in the war-affected areas.

"I reiterated the United States' support for a peaceful and stable Sudan. I have also made it very clear ?that negotiations for a lasting peace based on the African Union roadmap is the only way to settle differences. Returning to war is not an option," he said in a written statement posted on the embassy's page on Facebook.

He further called on all the warring parties to sign a humanitarian cessation of hostilities and to join the negotiating table to achieve peace and stability.

The government and armed groups failed in August 2017 to ink a cessation of hostilities and a humanitarian agreement to reach the needy in the war-affected zones. Washington has made some proposals to encourage the parties but in vain.

For the Blue Nile and South Kordofan states, a recent rift in the group is delaying the resumption of talks as the SPLM-N has suspended its participation in the peace process until the settlement of the internal crisis.

For Darfur, the divergence over the framework of the political process prevented any progress. The mediation and facilitators are struggling to find a common group between Khartoum and the armed groups.

"I hope to return soon to Darfur to see the progress the government and people have made in securing peace," Koutsis said.

The American diplomat concluded on Wednesday was in East Darfur State to visit South Sudanese refugees who fled violence and hunger in South Sudan. He celebrated World Refugee Day in El-Nimir camp in Ed Daein.

He discussed with representatives ?of East Darfur Humanitarian Aid Commission and Commission for Refugees the ongoing aid operation to South Sudanese refugees

"We commended them on the work they have done to respond to the refugee crisis and their efforts in facilitating NGO and UN agencies' access to all areas of East Darfur," he said.

(ST)

By Salman M.A. Salman

A summit of the head of states of the Nile Basin countries is planned for June 22, 2017, in Entebbe, Uganda, to discuss the impasse over the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA). The summit is to be preceded by a meeting of the ministers of foreign affairs of the Nile countries on June 20 – 21, 2017. The purpose of this Note is to clarify the differences over the CFA, and to propose a roadmap for resolving these differences.

The CFA and the Differences Thereon

The Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) was born on February 22, 1999, in Dar-es-Salam, Tanzania, following the signing of the minutes of the meeting by nine of the Nile ministers of water resources in attendance. The NBI was facilitated by a number of donors led by the World Bank and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The NBI was established as a transitional arrangement to foster cooperation and sustainable development of the Nile River for the benefit of the inhabitants of those countries. The NBI is guided by a shared vision “to achieve sustainable socio-economic development through equitable utilisation of, and benefit from, the common Nile Basin water resources.”

Work started immediately on the CFA, and lasted ten years. However, by 2009, major differences over some basic issues erupted, and could not be resolved, neither at the technical, nor at the political levels, leading to the impasse on the CFA. These major differences persisted as a result of the resurfacing and hardening of the respective positions of the Nile riparians over the colonial treaties, as well as the Egyptian and Sudanese claims to what they see as their acquired uses and rights of the Nile waters, and the rejection of these claims by the upper riparians.

The first difference related to water security. Article 14 of the CFA required the Basin states to work together to ensure that all states achieve and sustain water security. However, this paragraph did not satisfy Egypt and Sudan who wanted to ensure, through an additional clause, that their existing uses and rights are fully protected under the CFA. Consequently, Egypt and Sudan demanded and insisted that Article 14 of the CFA should include a specific provision, to be added at the end of the Article, that would oblige the Basin states “not to adversely affect the water security and current uses and rights of any other Nile Basin State.” This demand was rejected by the upper riparians who saw it as a denial of the basic principle of equitable and reasonable utilisation, and a breach of the vision of the NBI itself.

The second major difference related to the concept of notification, demanded by Egypt and Sudan and rejected by the upper riparians. The upper riparians saw it as a means for Egypt and Sudan to invoke the colonial treaties and their claim of veto power.

While the impasse persisted, on May 14, 2010, four of the Nile riparians (Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda) signed the CFA in Entebbe, Uganda. They were joined five days later by Kenya, and by Burundi on February 28, 2011. The CFA has thus far been ratified by Ethiopia, Tanzania and Rwanda. It needs a total of six instruments of ratification/accession to enter into force. Egypt and Sudan continue to vehemently reject the CFA.

Developments Since Conclusion of the CFA

The upper riparians continued with their projects on the Nile notwithstanding the impasse over the CFA, and the erosion of the NBI. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which commenced in 2011, has proven a major challenge to, and a source of a bitter dispute between Ethiopia on the one hand, and Egypt and Sudan on the other. However, by December 2013, Sudan broke ranks with Egypt and declared its full support of the GERD.

Egypt followed, albeit reluctantly, fifteen months later. Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia concluded in March 2015, through their head of states the Agreement on Declaration of Principles on the GERD (DoP). Egypt and Sudan basically accepted, through the DoP, the GERD and declared for the first time ever “the significance of the River Nile as a source of livelihood and the significant resource to the development of the people of Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan.” The three countries agreed further “to cooperate based on common understanding, mutual benefit, good faith, win-win, and the principles of international law, (as well as) in understanding upstream and downstream needs in its various aspects.” The DoP went on to state explicitly that “the purpose of the GERD is for power generation to contribute to economic development, promotion of transboundary cooperation and regional integration…”

The DoP included other provisions on equitable and reasonable utilisation, the obligation not to cause significant harm, as well as a peaceful settlement of disputes. It also contained explicit provisions on the GERD, including cooperation on filling its reservoir, as well as its safety. The DoP was confirmed nine months later through the signature by the three countries of the Khartoum Document in December 2015 at their 4th tripartite meeting.

Breaking the Impasse

These developments clearly annulled Egypt and Sudan previously held a position of securing all the Nile waters for their exclusive use through existing uses and rights and the veto power over other Nile countries' projects. Equality of all the riparians, as pronounced by the Permanent Court of International Justice in the 1929 River Oder case, and reconfirmed by the International Court of Justice in the 1997 Gab?íkovo-Nagymaros Project case, is now fully accepted by Egypt and Sudan. Similarly, Egypt and Sudan have confirmed their acceptance of the basic and cardinal principle of international water law of equitable and reasonable utilisation.

The consequent and logical step for Egypt and Sudan is to drop their demand for recognition of their existing uses and rights as a part of the water security paragraph of the CFA. Indeed, the whole section of the CFA on water security is no longer needed, given that the CFA includes the same provisions of the United Nations Watercourses Convention (UNWC) on equitable and reasonable utilisation, as well as on the obligation not to cause significant harm. It is worth mentioning that the UNWC includes no provisions on water security, as this is not a legal concept – merely a political pronouncement.

The quid pro quo for Egypt and Sudan agreeing to drop their demand for recognition of their existing uses and rights is to include provisions in the CFA similar to those of the UNWC on the notification. This should cause no alarm to the upper riparians as the basis of Egypt and Sudan of their veto power in case of notification – the colonial treaties – is no longer on the table since the two countries have accepted the principle of equality of all the riparians. Besides, a notification could take place through the Commission to be established under the CFA, or through the ministerial council of the Nile Basin States as happened in the latter years of the NBI before the differences erupted over the CFA.

This compromise would address the concerns of both Egypt and Sudan on the one hand and those of the upper riparians on the other. Its details can be successfully worked out through good faith negotiations if the political will among the Nile riparians exist. Indeed, this political will is urgently needed to resolve the differences over the CFA and conclude an agreement that is inclusive of all the Nile riparians, so as to pull the 250 million inhabitants of the Nile Basin out of their poverty, underdevelopment, hunger and darkness.The first difference related to water security. Article 14 of the CFA required the Basin states to work together to ensure that all states achieve and sustain water security. However, this paragraph did not satisfy Egypt and Sudan who wanted to ensure, through an additional clause, that their existing uses and rights are fully protected under the CFA. Consequently, Egypt and Sudan demanded and insisted that Article 14 of the CFA should include a specific provision, to be added at the end of the Article, that would oblige the Basin states “not to adversely affect the water security and current uses and rights of any other Nile Basin State.” This demand was rejected by the upper riparians who saw it as a denial of the basic principle of equitable and reasonable utilisation, and a breach of the vision of the NBI itself.

The second major difference related to the concept of notification, demanded by Egypt and Sudan and rejected by the upper riparians. The upper riparians saw it as a means for Egypt and Sudan to invoke the colonial treaties and their claim of veto power.

While the impasse persisted, on May 14, 2010, four of the Nile riparians (Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda) signed the CFA in Entebbe, Uganda. They were joined five days later by Kenya, and by Burundi on February 28, 2011. The CFA has thus far been ratified by Ethiopia, Tanzania and Rwanda. It needs a total of six instruments of ratification/accession to enter into force. Egypt and Sudan continue to vehemently reject the CFA.

Developments Since Conclusion of the CFA

The upper riparians continued with their projects on the Nile notwithstanding the impasse over the CFA, and the erosion of the NBI. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which commenced in 2011, has proven a major challenge to, and a source of a bitter dispute between Ethiopia on the one hand, and Egypt and Sudan on the other. However, by December 2013, Sudan broke ranks with Egypt and declared its full support of the GERD.

Egypt followed, albeit reluctantly, fifteen months later. Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia concluded in March 2015, through their head of states the Agreement on Declaration of Principles on the GERD (DoP). Egypt and Sudan basically accepted, through the DoP, the GERD and declared for the first time ever “the significance of the River Nile as a source of livelihood and the significant resource to the development of the people of Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan.” The three countries agreed further “to cooperate based on common understanding, mutual benefit, good faith, win-win, and the principles of international law, (as well as) in understanding upstream and downstream needs in its various aspects.” The DoP went on to state explicitly that “the purpose of the GERD is for power generation to contribute to economic development, promotion of transboundary cooperation and regional integration…”

The DoP included other provisions on equitable and reasonable utilisation, the obligation not to cause significant harm, as well as a peaceful settlement of disputes. It also contained explicit provisions on the GERD, including cooperation on filling its reservoir, as well as its safety. The DoP was confirmed nine months later through the signature by the three countries of the Khartoum Document in December 2015 at their 4th tripartite meeting.

Breaking the Impasse

These developments clearly annulled Egypt and Sudan previously held a position of securing all the Nile waters for their exclusive use through existing uses and rights and the veto power over other Nile countries' projects. Equality of all the riparians, as pronounced by the Permanent Court of International Justice in the 1929 River Oder case, and reconfirmed by the International Court of Justice in the 1997 Gab?íkovo-Nagymaros Project case, is now fully accepted by Egypt and Sudan. Similarly, Egypt and Sudan have confirmed their acceptance of the basic and cardinal principle of international water law of equitable and reasonable utilisation.

The consequent and logical step for Egypt and Sudan is to drop their demand for recognition of their existing uses and rights as a part of the water security paragraph of the CFA. Indeed, the whole section of the CFA on water security is no longer needed, given that the CFA includes the same provisions of the United Nations Watercourses Convention (UNWC) on equitable and reasonable utilisation, as well as on the obligation not to cause significant harm. It is worth mentioning that the UNWC includes no provisions on water security, as this is not a legal concept – merely a political pronouncement.

The quid pro quo for Egypt and Sudan agreeing to drop their demand for recognition of their existing uses and rights is to include provisions in the CFA similar to those of the UNWC on the notification. This should cause no alarm to the upper riparians as the basis of Egypt and Sudan of their veto power in case of notification – the colonial treaties – is no longer on the table since the two countries have accepted the principle of equality of all the riparians. Besides, the notification could take place through the Commission to be established under the CFA, or through the ministerial council of the Nile Basin States as happened in the latter years of the NBI before the differences erupted over the CFA.

This compromise would address the concerns of both Egypt and Sudan on the one hand and those of the upper riparians on the other. Its details can be successfully worked out through good faith negotiations if the political will among the Nile riparians exist. Indeed, this political will is urgently needed to resolve the differences over the CFA and conclude an agreement that is inclusive of all the Nile riparians, so as to pull the 250 million inhabitants of the Nile Basin out of their poverty, underdevelopment, hunger and darkness.

Dr. Salman M.A. Salman, an academic researcher and consultant on water law and policy and Editor-in-Chief of Brill Research Perspectives, International Water Law. Until 2009, he served as Lead Counsel and Water Law Adviser for the World Bank. He can be reached at SalmanMASalman@gmail.com.