Sudan and Rebel Leaders Seal Peace Deal

A peace agreement between Sudan's transitional government and a number of rebel groups was signed, in Juba, South Sudan, Saturday, October 3.

In attendance were Sudan's Sovereign Council Chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, South Sudan's President Salva Kiir, and Chad President Idriss Deby. Observers hope this will end nearly two decades of conflict in war-torn regions of the country, including Darfur.

Burhan said it was a great day for the destiny of Sudan’s people, since the nation achieved the goal of a revolution — which is peace — after many years of war, ending bloodshed and giving the people a decent standard of living.

Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok thanked all factions and leaders that joined the peace accord, ending his country's bloody 17-year conflict, and he urged the two remaining factions, which have not signed the peace deal, to come on board.

He said there could be no development without peace, and no peace without fair and equitable development, all of which contribute to democracy.

Kiir thanked the international community for its "support and encouragement" in brokering the deal, insisting that "our work is not done, and we will not relax until our aspirations for a peaceful region are achieved." He warned the world that Sudan "needs its help and aid."

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