AU Criticizes SLM for Torture Incident

UNCLAS KHARTOUM 001876

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PHUM PREL KPKO PGOV AU SU
SUBJECT: AU Criticizes SLM for Torture Incident


1. On August 1, the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) released
a statement regarding a recent incident of alleged torture that
occurred on the AMIS compound in El Fasher, Darfur. The statement
calls on the SLM to cease such actions, investigate the incident,
and to hold those accountable to blame.


2. The text of the statement is as follows:

(Begin text)

August 1, 2006

Statement by the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the
African Union Commission on the practice of torture by the SLA, Mini
Minawi

The attention of the Special Representative of the Chairperson of
the African Union Commission in the Sudan, Ambassador Baba Gana
Kingibe has been drawn to allegations of the practice of torture by
the forces of the SLM loyal to Mr. Mini Arkoi Minawi. These
persistent and consistent allegations were brought to the attention
of the SLA authorities.

The Special Representative is, however, shocked and horrified at the
incidence of torture which occurred in the SLA quarters in El Fasher
whereby a middle aged unidentified individual was brutally beaten
and blooded all over, including severe blows to his head, on two
successive days, the 17th and 18th July, 2006. When members of the
AMIS Force Headquarters Company led by their company commander
attempted to intervene, they were rebuffed by SLA elements who
dragged the victim back into their compound. Colonel Ali Mokhtar,
the leader of the group claimed that the victim was an SLA soldier
under discipline. The fate of the victim is not known.

This incident lends credence to the previous incessant allegations.
Ambassador Kingibe deplores the practice of torture and abuse of
Human Rights even if it involves a member of the SLA. He urges Mr.
Minawi to order an immediate end to this practice. He further
demands a thorough investigation of this particular incident and the
culprits made accountable. The AMIS is prepared to continue
extending non military assistance within its means to the Sudanese
parties as required by the DPA, but such cooperation cannot be
expected by any party that condones torture and inhumane treatment
of its own members, much less the civilian population in Darfur.


(End text)

HUME