Sudan: Chad Mediates With Darfur Rebels

Khartoum — Chadian President Idris Deby discussed peace Thursday with the leadership of the rebel Justice and Equality Movement – military council (JEM-MC) which just signed a cessation of hostilities and good will agreement earlier this week.

Deby facilitated the contacts between the Sudanese government and the rebel faction following its dissidence from JEM mainstream led by Ibrahim Khalil in August 2012.

Tijani Taher Karshoum, member of the interim military council said following the meeting they briefed the Chadian president about the talks held in Doha with Khartoum and the signed deal.

Mohamed Bashar , JEM-MC leader told Deby that peace is their strategic choice, and he pointed out to the need to have a comprehensive and inclusive agreement, Karshoum said.

He further said they have no objection to unite their group with the other groups willing to join the peace process before the talks which are expected to start in November.

Karshoum disclosed they are in dialogue with other members of the movement in order to persuade to join them, stressing that they expect that JEM external sections will join them soon.

The groups of splinting commanders accused Gibril Ibrahim of administrating the group in a authoritarian manner since the death of JEM founder and his brother Khalil Ibrahim.

The rebels said they intend to hold a general conference in November before to start negotiations with the Sudanese government in Doha. Khartoum expressed hopes that a peace deal can be signed before a donors conference scheduled for December of this year.

Gibreel Adam Bilal, JEM spokesperson, issued a statement on Wednesday distancing the movement from the move of their former comrades.

He further stressed that whatever money the Sudanese government gives them, it would not be a solution for the problem and will not realise an equal wealth sharing.