Nyala, 21 August 2014 - The Head of the African Union – United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) and Joint Chief Mediator, Mohamed Ibn Chambas, visited Nyala, South Darfur, to defuse tension in the area following recent security operations carried out by State authorities in camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and to coordinate with local authorities on tribal reconciliation and community development. During the two-day visit, Mr. Chambas met with Government authorities, IDP leaders and representatives of UN agencies operating in the state.

In the Kalma IDP camp, where the displaced civilians are anticipating an intervention similar to the ones conducted by Sudanese authorities in other camps and villages in the area, the JSR met with the camp’s leaders and emphasized that UNAMID will work tirelessly with the Government and with the IDPs, as mandated, to support all legitimate law enforcement activities conducted with due respect to human rights and rule of law. Mr. Chambas commended camp residents for identifying and handing over to UNAMID and Government of Sudan police criminal elements in IDP camps for prosecution.  

“Unfortunately, we have seen a widespread escalation of banditry and criminality in some parts of Darfur,” said the JSR. “Nobody is safe from it; we expect communities across Darfur to fully cooperate with Government authorities, whose purpose is to identify criminals and bring them to justice in the interest of stabilizing the communities and bringing harmony back to South Darfur.”

In a meeting with the South Darfur Wali (Governor), Mr. Adam Mahmoud Jar Alnabi, the Head of UNAMID acknowledged the positive impact of the recent security measures adopted and urged Government authorities, in conducting the security operations, to respect international human rights standards. The Wali assured the JSR that Government entities will engage UNAMID in all future search procedures and operations designed to deter criminality. “We assure you that we respect human rights,” the Wali said. “Cooperation with UNAMID at this stage is very important; all our movements within the camps will be in full collaboration with the Mission.”

In addition to addressing the security concerns that have emerged in recent days, the Head of UNAMID urged the IDPs with whom he spoke to participate in Darfur Internal Dialogue and Consultation process and to impress upon leaders of the non-signatory movements to participate in the the national dialogue as a means to achieve comprehensive peace. “Please be part of these processes and help us find a lasting solution that can enable you to go back to living normal, decent, ordinary lives in your communities,” the JSR said.

On 21 August 2014, the Joint Special Representative Mohamed Ibn Chambas talks with IDPs representatives in UNAMID's base in Kalma IDP camp, South Darfur.