A local NGO has called on the governments of South Sudan and Sudan to commit on the Abyei referendum that they agreed in principle to be conducted by the end of the year.
The two negotiating parties agreed on Saturday in Addis Ababa to hold a referendum on self-determination to the people of Abyei before the year ends.Edmon Yakani chairs CEPO, the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization. He told the press today in Juba that his organization appreciated the remarkable effort made by South Sudan and Sudan to agree on the Abyei referendum, Bakhita Radio reported.
He added that CEPO urged the two parties to commit themselves to implement the Abyei referendum.
The official urged the parties to set up the referendum commission, and agree on eligibility and finances.
Mr Yakani said the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and the ruling of the International Arbitration Court are enough to determine who has the right to vote in the Abyei referendum.
He called upon both governments in Juba and Khartoum to commit to finance the process with the support of the international community.
CEPO called upon the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton – who is visiting the country this week – to put the Abyei referendum among the priorities to be discussed with the Government of South Sudan and with the US administration when she returns home.