CEPO’s Yakani Urges Accountability in Sudan-South Sudan Atrocities

Mr. Edmund Yakani, the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has publicly acknowledged the efforts of His Excellency Moussa Faki, the Chairperson of the African Union (AU), for responding to calls for justice regarding human rights violations during the Sudan Armed Forces’ recapture of Wad al-Medeni. 

In a statement released on Monday, Yakani emphasized the importance of accountability in the aftermath of the reported atrocities, urging both Sudan and South Sudan to investigate the situation comprehensively and transparently. He noted the commitment shown by some elements within the Sudan Armed Forces, as well as similar abuses perpetrated against Sudanese citizens in South Sudan during retaliatory actions linked to human rights violations against South Sudanese refugees.

“Many from the Rapid Support Force have been implicated in the atrocities, and we have seen disturbing images demonstrating these human rights violations,” Yakani stated. He applauded the leadership in Sudan for establishing an investigative committee to address these concerns but stressed the need for transparency and accuracy in the investigation to ensure justice for the victims.

Yakani also directed a distinct message to the South Sudanese government, calling for the formation of a similar committee to scrutinize the atrocities suffered by Sudanese citizens in Juba. “Both Juba and Khartoum must uphold justice and accountability for all innocent citizens affected by these conflicts,” he asserted.

Emphasizing that justice should not be selective, Yakani reiterated the need for both governments to collaboratively respond to the AU’s call for a thorough investigation. “We have lost lives on both sides of the border, and it is imperative that the sacrifice of these innocent lives is acknowledged and accounted for,” he added.

Under a new initiative named “Sudan and South Sudan Solidarity”, CEPO aims to advocate for the victims of human rights violations in both countries. “Our mission will continue until justice prevails against all those responsible for these heinous acts,” Yakani promised.