Sudan Update 11

I must start by apologizing for the delay in updates. I returned from leave (vacation) on Monday but instead of telling you about that, I would like to use this update to provide you with some information on the current situation in Sudan. Please note that this email is only my personal view on the situation and does not represent the UN in any way.

First, let me begin by assuring you that I am safe and in one of the most secure sectors in the mission. As the countdown to 9 July secession date approaches, we are experiencing increased tribal, military, and civil conflict within South Sudan. There are numerous factions, for a multitude of reasons, that are working quite hard to destabilize the region and create an insecure environment. The most notable areas of violence are, predictably, along the contested borderline of North and South Sudan. It is heart wrenching, disappointing, and at times shocking to observe such horrific acts of violence, anger, and hatred. Many team sites are unable to patrol as they are being told, by the parties to the CPA (Comprehensive Peace Agreement), that our mandate is complete and consequently their safety cannot be guaranteed.

Those of us in areas that are still able to patrol are continuing to note an increase in denial of freedom of movement and some negative vibes from local populations. In my sector, there has recently been a UN smear campaign by local newspapers and radio stating that the UN is supplying the LRA (Lord's Resistance Army of Uganda) with weapons, so you can imagine some of the delicate situations we are now dealing with. The UNMIS chain of command quickly countered these negative propaganda attacks and we have been working diligently this past month to broadcast our true mandate and improve public relations. We have encountered some angry mobs and lost a few vehicle windows. That being said, I was patrol leader today to RINGASI and noticed that most locals still smiled and waved as we drove past, definitely a good sign.

Despite the slightly negative tone of this update, I want to leave you with the assurance that many of us within the mission and the local population remain exceedingly positive and hopeful for a bright, secure, and peaceful future for the people of both the North and South Sudan. I imagine that the next few weeks will bring much media attention and spotlight on this newly emerging country, please take the reports that you hear with a grain of salt and send your best wishes and prayers for the future of this fragile, beautiful nation.