Troika condemns ‘ethnic cleansing’ in Darfur

The Troika countries, comprising the United States, Norway, and the United Kingdom, have condemned what they termed ethnic cleansing in Darfur, Sudan.

In a statement seen by The City Review, the Troika condemned the “escalating violence” and human rights abuse in Sudan, mostly linked to Rapid Support Forces in West, Central and South Darfur.

“Mass killings include ethnic targeting of non-Arab and other communities, killings of traditional leaders, unjust detentions, and obstruction of humanitarian aid.  We are also concerned about reports of violence in the town of Jebel Aulia, on the White Nile River, where there are reports of targeting civilians,” the statement read in part.

“We reiterate that there is no acceptable military solution to the conflict and call for an end to the fighting.”

Troika urged the two warring parties to abstain from activities that would divide the Sudanese along the ethnic line.

 “Both sides need to deescalate and engage in meaningful discussions that lead to a ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access.”

However, the Troika welcomed the recent resumption of the talks in Jeddah, sponsored by Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

They also recognised the initial humanitarian commitments made by the parties on November 7.

“Achieving a sustainable solution requires ending violence and resuming a civilian-owned political process to form a civilian government and restore Sudan’s democratic transition. We welcome the efforts of the Sudanese people as they work to support humanitarian responses, demand an end to the war, and resume the stalled political transition,” the statement read in part.

The conflict in Sudan started on April 15 in the Sudanese capital Khartoum and has now spread to most parts of the country.

About 90,000 people have been killed and the UN said the number is underestimated and it could go beyond that.