Khartoum; 9th February,2004
HONORABLE CITIZENS,
You have closely followed the regrettable events that look place in Darfur
States in the last few months. The events were clear infringement of law
which caused disastrous losses in human life, private and public property.
The Government has undertaken its full duties and responsibilities through
decisive auction in the face of these events, and managed to restore
security and protect human life and property. The Armed Forces with other
Regular Forces and Popular Defense Forces, through commendable efforts and
distinguished performance, managed to curb the violence and restore law and
order.
Based on the above, I have the pleasure to announce the following :-
First: The end of the main military operations, now that the Armed Forces
are in full control of all the theatres, and that they shall remain on the
alert and readiness to deter any armed insurgency; in defense of human life,
property and maintaining public security and order.
Second: An amnesty for those who took arms against the State, provided they
hand-in their weapons to the nearest military or police unit, within one
month, starting this day. The Ministry of Justice shall take prompt
necessary actions accordingly.
Third: An immediate commencement of handling the humanitarian conditions
involving the Internally Displaced Persons and those affected by the events.
A quick action plan is to be established with the aim of reconstructing and
resettling the IDPs into their villages and nomadic habitats.
Fourth: Opening the corridors for National and International Organizations
to deliver relief for the needy.
Fifth : Relevant Government offices are to start immediate contacts with the
Higher Commissions for Refugees and the Government of Chad, to arrange for
the return of those citizens who took refuge in Chad.
Sixth : All Federakl Ministries and Institutions are directed to continue
work in the development and service projects within the comprehensive
development plan in cooperation with the State Governments.
Seventh : The Armed Forces and the Security Organs are directed to take the
necessary arrangements to control the possession of weapons, and collect
them from citizens and groups throughout Darfur, so that weapons are placed
under their direct control and supervision.
Eighth : The establishment of a National Committee to restore the social
fabric, peaceful coexistence, reconciliation and to contribute in rallying
popular efforts to participate in the resettlement process. The Committee
shall comprise tribal chiefs, sophists confreres, civil society
organizations and political forces.
Ninth : In assurance of the Government's responsibility towards partnership
and consultation, I invite all the sons of Darfur, as represented in their
various formations, to attend an all-inclusive conference on development,
peace and coexistence in Darfur. Pariticipation is open for all without
exclusion even of those who are covered by the amnesty declared in this
announcement. Here, I declare the Government's sponsorship of the conference
and the realization of its resulting recommendations and resolutions.
I extend my wholehearted greetings and gratitude to all the citizens Darfur,
their social and tribal leaders who have distanced themselves from violence
and war and committed themselves to law and justice. Their postive stance
has facilitated the Government's task in restoring order and security and
put an end to the insurgence. Here I also record with appreciation the
valuable contribution and the lofty national response by the business
community, Federal Ministries and States, incorporated in participating in
the relief for and alleviating harm off their brethrens in Darfur. I would
like to express with honour and appreciation my thankfulness for the immense
role performed by H.E. President Idriss Deby, The President of the Republic
of Chad; which is a genuine embodiment of the good relations and
neighbourhood. The People of Sudan will safeguard this role with gratitude
and acknowledgement. I also extend my gratitude to the regional and
international public opinion and community for the interest they have shown
and the contribution they have made to handle the humanitarian situation.
Dear Brothers,
Our country is looking forward to a comprehensive peace, and it is my hope
that it will result in the well-beign and prosperity for the whole country.
I renew my call on all particularly the sons of Darfur, to join their
efforts to attain peace and prosperity.
May God safeguard peace in our land and assist us in maintaining overall
security and justice.
I thank you