DARFUL CRISIS NEEDS DIPLOMATIC SOLUTION

Rwandan peacekeepers stationed in the volatile western Sudan region of Darfur have come under attack leading to loss of lives. The two attacks, happening within two days, are clearly designed to achieve certain sinister objectives. By attacking peacekeepers on a humanitarian mission, the elements behind the killings hope to derail the peacekeeping efforts in the Darfur region. It must be recalled that the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) have been in Darfur since 2004, and for all the years the RDF have been there, they have carried out their duties with distinction and professionalism that is their hallmark. Indeed the fact that the commander of UNAMID is an officer of the RDF attests to the fact that the force is held in high esteem, internationally. That the peacekeepers are being targeted confirms is an indication that, not all involved in the Darfur conflict wish to see a peaceful resolution. It is a cowardly act that must be condemned by all. However, such violence cannot break the will of the RDF under UNAMID to carry out their duty, and there is a lot of evidence from its history to show that it’s a resilient force. The United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, has called on the Khartoum government to make sure that the gunmen responsible for the attack, are identified and brought to justice. Indeed it is important that a diplomatic solution is found as soon as possible. Ends