UNSG renews call on Sudanese parties to cease hostilities in S. Kordofan

Sudan
July 7, 2011 (UN News)

The United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, has voiced his disappointment over the continued fighting in Sudan's South Kordofan state and called on the parties to agree to a cessation of hostilities. In a statement issued by his spokesperson on Wednesday, Ban deplored the grave humanitarian impact of the fighting between northern and southern forces.

"The Secretary-General calls on the parties to immediately cease hostilities, ensure the protection of civilians and provide all support necessary for the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those in need," the statement said.

The fact that the parties have not agreed to a cessation of hostilities is particularly concerning in light of the fact that the mandate of the UN Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) will end on 9 July, when the interim period of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement comes to an end, the steament added.

It is also the same day that South Sudan officially becomes independent after the referendum staged in January in accordance with the provisions of the CPA.

Ban offered the UN's continued support to the Sudanese government and all stakeholders toward resolving the conflict, implementing a ceasefire, and facilitating the provision of humanitarian assistance to those in need.

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