Khartoum, Sudan - The United Nations-African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) has expressed concern over renewed heavy fighting in Sudan's Darfur region, calling on all belligerents to exercise self control at a time their representatives are meeting in Qatar to resolve the lingering crisis. A UNAMID statement obtained by PANA here this weekend said the Joint Special Representative (JSR) and mission head Ibrahim Gambari had expressed grave concern over renewed armed clashes between the forces of the Government of the Sudan and of the rebel movements in North Darfur.

It said the heavy clashes, which have continued intermittently in the region since mid-December 2010 and included attacks on civilians, have resulted in loss of life, injuries, destruction of property, the renewed displacement of thousands and the withdrawal of humanitarian workers.

“The Joint Special Representative is particularly disturbed about reports of the most recent recrudescence of violence between Government of the Sudan soldiers and a combined group of elements from several rebel movements, in the region of Shangil Tobaya, 66 kilometres South-west of Fashir, the capital of North Darfur,” The statement said.

It quoted Gambari as calling on all belligerents to cease all offensive actions, refrain from further armed confrontation, and allow unfettered access by the humanitarian community and UNAMID to areas and population in need.

The statement said the JSR reminds all concerned that, at this time, ongoing negotiations and political dialogue hold the promise of a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Darfur, and urges all parties to engage fully in the peace process, exercise restraint and ensure the protection of civilians.

It is however not clear which of the many Darfurian rebel movements is currently engaged in the fighting. The Government has yet to react to UNAMID’s statement.

Pana 21/02/2011