A UN official said the international body will defend the rights of the southern Sudanese people and ensure that they take part in the upcoming referendum in a peaceful atmosphere.
James Fandus made this statement on behalf of UNMIS Lakes State team during an ecumenical prayer service on Saturday, Good News Radio reported.Mr. Fandus said UNMIS supported a peaceful referendum process, explaining that Southern Sudanese people had the right to take part in the plebiscite in a peaceful context.
He urged the public to avoid acts of revenge, adding that they could hamper the referendum process.
Mr. Fandus revealed that the UNMIS team in Lakes State was involved in capacity building with the local judiciary and civil society organizations to help citizens to take part in the referendum.
He acknowledged the commitment of the state and the churches towards a successful referendum.
The international community and the UN have a crucial role to play while the country prepares for the historical moment of the referenda for Southern Sudan and Abyei slated for January 9, 2011.