ICG Warns of Potential Conflict in Central Sudan

Violent conflict could erupt in the Central Sudanese state of Southern Kordofan unless long-standing grievances are addressed urgently, the International Crisis Group (ICG) has warned. ICG regional Project director Fouad Hikmat says local communities in Southern Kordofan are deeply polarized along political and ethnic lines, fuelled by animosity over resources, representation and interests. According to the ICG, the Nuba community especially feels neglected, marginalized and frustrated by both the Khartoum government and the semi-autonomous South’s governing SPLM. Southern Kordofan lies on the border between the North and South, and is occupied by majority African tribes and alongside Misseriya and Hawazma Arabs.[PE]