The Current Situation

The SPLM/A is slowly dismantling
parts of its army (United Nations)

Beginning in February 2010, the Sudanese government opened up communications with the rebel belligerents of Southern Sudan. The peace talks ended December 19, 2010, both parties having agreed to the core principles of the peace agreement, including who would control what areas of Sudan. Leaders of the LJM and JEM released a statement claiming to have fully accepted the peace agreements proposed at the peace talks of the previous year. In an official press conference, a Chadian official said “The cease-fire between the Justice and Equality Movement and the Sudanese government takes effect immediately.” (VOA). Negations that would give rebel groups full or at least partial autonomy over southern Sudan are still underway. Reports say that most of the rebel groups have integrated themselves into the Justice and Equality movement, “The establishment of the new rebel group had been announced hours before the signing of a framework agreement including a temporary ceasefire between the Sudanese government and the Justice and Equality Movement.” (Sudan Tribune). Previously stated integration makes the JEM the largest umbrella organization of rebels in the Sudan. In the years to come it is expected that Sudan will split into two different countries due to ethnic differences, one predominately black, the other Arab.

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Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of Southern Sudan
and chairman of the SPLM/A (Rockett)