France on Thursday called for the immediate withdrawal of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) from the northern sector of the disputed Abyei region, warning that the conflict in Sudan is worsening instability in the area and raising the risk of spillover into South Sudan.
Speaking to the U.N. Security Council, France’s deputy ambassador Jay Dharmadhikari said the presence of RSF fighters in Abyei violated the 2011 agreement on the contested border area and was “intimidating local populations.”
He also accused the RSF of rights violations in Abyei, saying such abuses were fuelling insecurity alongside intercommunal violence and criminal activity.
The French diplomat said there was an “urgent need” for Sudan’s army and the RSF to resume negotiations and agree to a ceasefire, adding that this should lead to an inclusive and credible political process.
France warned that tensions in Sudan and South Sudan were exacerbating instability in Abyei, where the U.N. peacekeeping mission UNISFA operates.
Dharmadhikari urged Sudanese and South Sudanese authorities to remove obstacles hindering UNISFA’s operations, reiterating Security Council expectations including the withdrawal of armed forces from the demilitarised zone, progress on border demarcation talks, and the establishment of joint security arrangements.
He also called for visas to be issued for mission personnel and for the appointment of a civilian deputy head of mission.
France welcomed UNISFA’s work in protecting civilians and facilitating humanitarian access, but said the mission was operating in a “dangerous environment.”
The French envoy condemned a drone attack on a peacekeeping base in Kadugli last December that killed six Bangladeshi peacekeepers, and said those responsible must be held accountable. He also reiterated condolences to Bangladesh.
France further expressed support for U.N. mediation efforts by the Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa aimed at implementing the 2011 and 2012 agreements on Abyei.
“The return of peace and resolution of conflicts affecting Sudanese and South Sudanese peoples remains essential,” Dharmadhikari said.
Abyei, an oil-rich region claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan, remains a flashpoint for violence between the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities. A unilateral referendum held in the area by the Ngok Dinka community in October 2013 was not recognized by either country.
The area was granted special administrative status under the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement that ended Sudan’s north-south civil war.
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