UNAMID calls for restraint in face of recent clashes in Darfur

El Fasher, 16 February 2010 – The African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint following recent hostilities in Jebel Marra, South Darfur, and Jebel Moon, West Darfur. The clashes over the past few days have left many dead and caused thousands to flee their homes.

In response, UNAMID’s peacekeeping forces are increasing their security presence in and around the region, to prevent a further escalation in the violence. The Mission is also collaborating closely with aid agencies to urgently meet the humanitarian needs of the newly displaced peoples.

Joint Special Representative (JSR) Ibrahim Gambari, who has recently been in Doha speaking with representatives from both the Sudanese government and rebel groups, has expressed his grave concern over the events. “Such confrontations may negatively affect the ongoing peace process, which has recently seen significant strides towards bringing stability to the region,” he said.

The JSR reaffirmed that the Mission’s focus lay in helping to secure lasting peace and stability in the region by enhancing the security of civilians and internally displaces persons in the region.