AUHIP Lauds Sudanese Leaders In The Implementation Of The Referendum

8 February 2011 – (Khartoum) – The chairperson of the African Union High Implementation Panel says that the successful conduct of the southern Sudan self-determination referendum is a clear indication that northern and southern Sudan will continue to co-exist peacefully.

The AUHIP congratulated the Sudanese leaders for their commitment in safeguarding the CPA up to the referendum which was one of the crucial provisions of the CPA.

Addressing Sudanese leaders and diplomats shortly after the announcement of the final referendum results in Khartoum on Monday, the AUHIP chairperson, Thabo Mbeki said the success of the referendum in Sudan will help promote democracy in Africa.

[Thabo Mbeki]: “This success confirms the commitment of the Sudanese people and leaders never to return to war. And if at all to resolve any differences that may arise, exclusively by peaceful means. It continuous to say that, Sudan has the utmost importance to the African continent. It spells the diversity of our continent bringing our people together in a great melting pot. And the achievement of peace and democracy and development in southern and northern Sudan promise to help lift the entire continent.”

Thabo Mbeki added that although the referendum attested Africa’s ability to resolve conflicts in the continent and achieve its common goal, the people Sudan should continue nurturing peace in both independent states.

[Thabo Mbeki]: “Sudanese ability to overcome the formidable obstacles in its path stands as the testament to Africa capacity to resolve it conflict and achieve our common goals. And conversely African cannot afford to see Sudan plunged into war again. We express African solidarity with the entire Sudanese people and welcome equally north and south Sudan in emerging post referendum issues as building pots for the ongoing projects of African integration.”

Thabo Mbeki urged the SPLM and the NCP to swiftly settle the remaining items in the post-referendum arrangements.