Khartoum, Sudan – (African Boulevard News) – Sudanese citizens in Nyala, South Darfur’s state capital, have expressed mixed opinions over the recent call-to-arms by Darfur’s pro-army governor, Mini Minawi, to defend their belongings.
Minawi, who was also a former Darfur rebel leader, made the call-to-arms during a public rally in Nyala on Friday, stating that citizens should take up arms to defend themselves against bandits and militias ravaging the region. He argued that the security situation in Darfur has been deteriorating, pointing to the recent surge in abduction cases and clashes between farmers and herders.
While some Sudanese citizens support Minawi’s call-to-arms, others are skeptical, citing that arming civilians may exacerbate the current security situation and lead to more bloodshed. Others fear that the call-to-arms will further aggravate the fragile peace accord brokered by the government and several rebel groups last year.
Ahmed Ibrahim, a Nyala resident, supports the governor’s proposal, stating that “we have to defend ourselves and our property from the criminal gangs that roam our streets.” However, his fellow resident Aisha Mohammed opposes Minawi’s proposal, stating that “we don’t want to see more weapons in the hands of civilians; this will only lead to more violence and chaos.”
The United Nations and civil society organizations have also expressed concerns about the call-to-arms, stating that promoting self-defense without proper regulation and oversight could lead to human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings and displacement.
The UN Secretary-General’s Spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, has urged the Sudanese authorities to ensure that any initiative to protect civilians is consistent with human rights law and international humanitarian law.
Meanwhile, the Sudanese government has yet to comment on the matter.
The situation in Darfur has remained fragile since the 2003 conflict that left thousands dead and millions displaced. While the peace accord has reduced violence in the region, sporadic clashes and kidnappings by bandits and militias have increased in recent months.
The call-to-arms by Minawi has raised concerns about the future of the peace accord and the security situation in the region. However, it remains to be seen how the Sudanese authorities will address the concerns raised by the citizens and international organizations.
In conclusion, the call-to-arms by Darfur’s pro-army governor has elicited mixed reactions from the Sudanese citizens, with some supporting the initiative, while others are skeptical. The UN and civil society organizations have also expressed concerns about the potential human rights violations that may arise from promoting self-defense without proper regulation and oversight. The situation in Darfur remains tense, with sporadic clashes and kidnappings by bandits and militias. The call-to-arms may further aggravate the fragile peace accord brokered by the government and several rebel groups last year.
