The 8th Assembly of the Sudan Ecumenical Forum noted recent events that cast doubts on the commitment of the negotiating parties.
In a communiqué, it said those events include «significant violations of the cessation of hostilities agreement, notably in Western Upper Nile and Akobo, the conducting of the war by proxy through armed groups, and the mobilization and forced recruitment on both sides.»
The forum met here Feb. 24-26. The meeting was organized by South African churches.
The assembly acknowledged previous efforts to restore peace in Sudan, highlighting progress made at the Machakos talks between the Khartoum government and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army.
It said, «We welcome the Machakos framework agreement, and in particular the incorporation of the right of self-determination for the people of South Sudan.»
The clerical group members «strongly commend the cessation of hostilities subsequently achieved in most parts of the South and urge that it be fully respected and continued while the parties strive to achieve a successful conclusion to the peace talks.»
