8 December 2009 - A delegation led by the Assistant Secretary-General of UN Peacekeeping Operations, Mr. Edmond Mulet, arrived today in El Fasher, North Darfur, in a follow-up to his visit two years ago, when the African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) was first established. The delegation also included Mr. Craig Jenness, Director of the Electoral Assistance Division of the UN Department of Political Affairs (DPA).

The ASG first took the opportunity to make a hospital visit to peacekeepers wounded in this weekend’s attacks. He then met with the Wali (Governor) of North Darfur to discuss the worsening security situation in the region. Also on the agenda were the Government’s preparations for the national elections due to take place next year. The ASG was impressed by the record number people registered to vote, noting that it was “a good signal that the people of Sudan want peace and want to exert their voice in the upcoming elections.” He added that it was only through the democratic process that peace will come to Sudan.

Mr. Mulet later proceeded to meet with senior mission officials, before addressing UNAMID staff. After observing a moment of silence for the peacekeepers who recently lost their lives, the ASG expressed his “gratitude and appreciation for the engagement and dedication shown by UNAMID personnel.”

Two years after his last visit, the ASG observed that UNAMID had come a long way, making a positive impact on the lives of people in Darfur.