Abyei Administration for Calls Calm During UN Delegation Visit

Ngor Arol Garang

19 May 2011

Abyei — Local authorities in the oil producing region of Abyei on Thursday issued strong orders, vowing to enforce the directives of the Chief Administrator by arresting any person engaged in acts of violence during the visit of a UN Security Council delegation on 23 May, regardless of their political affiliation.

Members of high-level government and diplomatic delegations from the Government of South Sudan (GoSS) has started arriving Abyei ahead of the scheduled day on which 15 members of the UN Security Council will visit the contested oil-producing region.

Minister of finance in the Abyei administration, Acuil Akol Miyen, said in an interview with Sudan Tribune, “We expect people to demonstrate respect and responsible behaviour to the guests”.

He warned that the police will “arrest any person who may attempt to incite or participate in any acts of violence, regardless of his or her affiliation with any of the political parties or organizations”.

The official said delegation are coming to the area for “first-hand information” on the situation in Abyei, rather than “depending on media reports and statements from third parties.”

They will meet chief administrator, executive members, members of local council, UN Mission in Sudan, and members of civil society organisations and faith based groups.

“It is because of the sensitivity of the visit that I would like to urge all stakeholders, political parties, civil society and other interest groups to work closely with the police to remain calm during the visit”, said Miyen.

He explained that the police “will work with all involved, including the media, the church, civil society and other organizations, to ensure that meetings are peaceful”.

(ST)

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