Tell President Obama To Appoint the Right Diplomat to Sudan Who Will Implement the Right Policy

President Obama, Appoint the Right Diplomat to Sudan to Implement the Right Policy

Greetings Mr. President,

Dear President Obama,

I am extremely concerned about the growing renewal of violence and overall stability plaguing Sudan. Now, with the opening left by Special Envoy Scott Gration, who you have nominated to become the new U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, there is a fresh opportunity for your administration to engage in a fresh way with the Sudanese government at this critical point in its history.

As you know, in January southern Sudan largely voted for independence from the rest of Africa’s largest nation. Despite the referendum vote being an important component of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), much work remains to be done to ensure the south peacefully separates from the north. Of particular concern in south Sudan is the presence of Khartoum-backed militias, who threaten to destabilize the south and destroy all hopes of a peaceful separation. In once incident along in early February 0f 2011, armed militia under the command rebel leader George Athor massacred over 200 defenseless civilians. The southern government has blatantly stated Khartoum backs and funds Athor, and this also raises considerable concern that Khartoum is continuing to fund and support the Lord’s Resistance Army.

Meanwhile, in Darfur, violence against civilians has increased to alarming levels as the government continues its military campaign to crush rebel groups in the region, threatening the now nearly defunct peace process. The regime in Khartoum has made powerful efforts to keep international media from reaching the region as a new humanitarian crisis has forced tens of thousands of more defenseless civilians to flee.

These disturbing patterns of violence being instigated by the Sudanese government require the United States to replace current U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan Scott Gration, who you have nominated to become the new U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, with a seasoned diplomat experienced in conflict prevention/resolution, African affairs, as well as Sudan itself. This diplomat should also be willing and instrumental in enforcing your policy of a balanced approach regarding pressures and incentives.

The diplomat you select should place his immediate focus on the following:
• Ensure peace negotiations for Darfur take place outside of Sudan.
• Reinvigorate Darfur peace negotiations
• Engage civil society in both south Sudan and Darfur so that their voices may be heard concerning peace efforts and the issues which plague them
• Fight to empower UNAMID to better protect civilians in Darfur
• Heavily push for a democratic, secure, and peaceful transition of southern Sudan into a sovereign state.

Mr. President, please follow through on your promises to the Sudanese people by focusing on the above steps and selecting the right envoy to end current conflict and prevent future violence in Sudan.

[Your name]