In case you missed, a release from the
Sudan’s ‘Smoke and Mirrors Show in Overdrive’ Following New Peace, Ceasefire Proposals
Fowler: ‘Experience has taught us that Bashir’s promises should be presumed empty until and unless they are proven true.’
WASHINGTON, NOV. 13, 2008 – The Save Darfur Coalition today cast a suspicious eye toward new promises and proposals from Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir - promises that included ending the Darfur hostilities and forging a lasting peace in the war-torn country. These promises and proposals come conspicuously close to pending action from the International Criminal Court, whose response to arrest warrant requests for the Sudanese president are anticipated in the coming months. Jerry Fowler, president of the coalition, said history clearly shows us that al-Bashir’s promises must be “presumed empty” unless proven otherwise.
“With their latest batch of hollow proposals and promises, Khartoum’s smoke and mirrors show is in overdrive trying to suspend the ICC case against President al-Bashir.
“We’ve been down this road before. Time will tell if the Sudanese regime is for the first time serious about abiding by their newly declared ceasefire and bringing an end to this shameful chapter in Sudan’s history. Hard experience has taught us, however, that Bashir’s promises should be presumed empty until and unless they are proven true.
“Only real, verified security on the ground, coupled with a just and inclusive peace agreement and justice mechanisms broadly acceptable to the Darfuri people, would justify any consideration of suspension of the ICC case. The suffering of Darfuri civilians must be brought to an end. Any who would continue to threaten that must be held to account.”
