A new House Resolution on Sudan was introduced on Friday, July 30th, just as many Sudan activists prepared to take advantage of the Congressional summer district work period to lobby their members of Congress in their districts. Representative Capuano introduced House Resolution 1588 with cosponsors Representatives McCaul, Payne, Wolf and Chris Smith. Declaring that Sudan stands at a crossroads, the resolution stresses “the importance of the full implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement to help ensure peace and stability in Sudan during and after the mandated referenda.”
Outlining the current landscape in Sudan, the resolution notes the irregularities that marked Sudan’s national elections in April; the numerous provisions of the CPA that have not been properly implemented; the widespread human rights violations that occurred during the elections period and have continued throughout Sudan; and the ongoing conflict in Darfur. It declares that it is essential that free, fair and credible referenda in South Sudan and Abyei are held on time, “and that if the outcome of the southern Sudan referendum is independence, two stable and viable democratic states result.”
House Resolution 1588 calls for sustained pressure and engagement from the United States and the international community in support of the CPA and upcoming referenda. It notes the need for diplomatic and/or technical support for post-referendum negotiations; the popular consultation processes in Southern Kordofan State and Blue Nile State; conduct of the referenda and voter education programs; and capacity-building and rule of law in South Sudan.
A welcome complement to the Save Darfur Coalition’s policy goals and advocacy plans, this strongly-worded resolution remains open to co-sponsors. To add weight to its call for urgent action to support peace in Sudan, please contact your Member of Congress and ask him or her to cosponsor House Resolution 1588.







