Ex-Sudan leader appeals for help

A FORMER governor of Sudan’s stricken Darfur region yesterday appealed to the Irish Government to intervene to help solve what has become the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.

The conflict has already killed tens of thousands and driven an estimated 1.2 million civilians from their homes.

Ahmed Ibrahim Diraige, who met yesterday with Development Minister Tom Kitt, said it was vitally important Darfur's displaced people were saved.

"The most critical issue is the issue of the displaced people who are living in very difficult and precarious positions," he said.

Mr Diraige a guest of the African Solidarity Centre stressed the need for Ireland and the international community to pressure the Sudanese Government into reaching a political settlement for the region.

Last night GOAL's John O'Shea, who is due to raise the issue with Taoiseach Bertie Ahern today, called for the UN to get tough.

"We know the Government there has given the UN the two fingers. Is the security council just going to lie down and do nothing?" he said.

A spokesman for the Department of Foreign Affairs said the Government regarded the ongoing crisis in Darfur with increasing concern and would continue to work through its EU and UN partners to resolve the crisis. Last week the UN stopped short of sanctions.

A fresh UN resolution may include a call for a much tougher stance against the Sudanese government.