Release International

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has told the Sudanese military it must withdraw its troops from southern Sudan -- for the sake of peace.

In a report to the UN Security Council, Ki-moon said he was disappointed that the Sudanese Armed Forces had not pulled out its troops by July 9, the deadline agreed in the 2005 north-south peace deal. He was also concerned that the formation of joint military units comprising troops from the north and south was behind schedule.

Ordinary people would continue to be at risk, he said, until government troops, former southern rebels and local militias were properly marshalled. Southerners, who are mostly Christian or animist, suffered appalling atrocities at the hands of northern Islamic troops and militias during Sudan's long civil war.

Furthermore, the north and south have yet to agree where the north-south border will lie; the ownership of several oilfields is also still disputed. 'In southern Sudan, the activities of some regular armed forces and local militias, the exploitation of oil resources and tribal insecurity continue to pose challenges for the protection of civilians,' Ki-moon said. The Sudan Tribute reports that the UN Secretary General is, however, encouraged by
evidence of intense negotiations between north and south, commending them on their commitment to 'strengthen partnership and overcome mistrust'.

Pray for real progress on the elements of the north-south peace accord -- such as wealth-sharing -- which have yet to be implemented.

Continue to pray that politicians of the north and south of Sudan remain committed to building a lasting peace for the sake of the Sudanese people.

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