News

Talks on South Sudan referendum progress in Khartoum, Sudan Tribune (2009)

The details of the agreeement on the 2011 referendum law according to which the South could secede with a simple majority if the voter turnout equals two-thirds is being discussed in Sudan with some signs of progress.

Monitors worried about Sudan election, freedoms; Reuters (2009)

Election observers are concerned about the harassment of political parties and funding delays as voters begin to register for Sudan's first multi-party elections in 24 years.

Darfur rebels threaten Sudan election workers, Reuters (2009)

Rebels from Darfur threatened to attack any election officials that would come into their territory as officials started the voter registration process for the April 2010 elections.

Sudan opposition demand more time to register voters, Reuters (2009)

Accusing President al Bashir's National Congress Party of registration fraud, Sudan People's Liberation Movement and other opposition parties asked the National Elections Commission to extend the period for voter registration by another two weeks.

Sudan delays elections by six days, Reuters (2009)

In order to make up for the registration delays, Sudan will postpone its long awaited elections by six days. Voter registration is therefore extended until December 7, 2009 and the election will be re-scheduled to April 11, 2010.

Sudan opposition delays election boycott decision, Reuters (2009)

Due to the extended time for voter registration as well as the Muslim Eid holiday, the Sudan People's Liberation Movement and 20 other opposition parties, which had threatened to boycott the 2010 elections and accused the National Congress Party of fraud, decided to postpone their decision whether to boycott the elections. The parties will meet on November 30 to decide on further steps.

African Union Darfur panel shifts focus to Sudanese elections, VOA News (2009)

The focus of the African Union Darfur panel is now going to be on fostering a democracy transition in Sudan, firstly by ensuring credible national elections in April 2010. The leader of the panel, former president of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki said one of the greatest challenges will be to persuade people to participate in the elections and have faith in the electoral process.

Sudan parties mull alliance in looming elections, Reuters (2009)

In order to challenge the president, more than 20 Sudanese parties including Sudan People's Liberation Movement consider fielding joint candidates in April 2010 elections. President al-Bashir and his party criticised and dismissed the move.

UN condemns Sudan crackdown on pro-reform rally, The New York Times (2009)

Three senior southern Sudanese politicians were arrested during the rally calling for reforms ahead of the national and presidential elections, organized by the Sudan's People Liberation Movement and some other opposition groups. The UN expressed its concern, as such reactions and consequent developments might not only have an adverse effect on the peaceful conduct of elections, but also on the overall peace in the country.

Election observers concerned over Sudan crackdown, Reuters (2009)

The election observers in Sudan expressed their grave concern about the government crackdowns on opposition rallies. International observers from the Carter Centre call on the government to investigate the police brutality and end the arbitrary arrests of people who were protesting.

Sudan: National police undertake UN-backed pre-election training in Darfur, UN News Centre (2010)

UN-backed security training sessions were conducted in Darfur region of Sudan, as part of the preparation for the April 2010 national elections. In addition to security issues, the focus of the training was on election rules and crisis management.

Sudan rejects UN monitoring for elections, Sudan Tribune (2010)

According to the ruling National Congress Party, the UN cannot be monitoring the April 2010 elections since it would be outside of the scope of the National Election Law, which authorizes specific countries and parties to participate in election observation. The statement was a reaction to remarks made by Umma Reform and Renewal Party leader Al-Fadil who called for free and fair elections administered by the UN in a manner similar to countries such as DRC or Afghanistan.

Sudan President Bashir starts re-election bid, BBC News (2010)

The ruling National Congress Party has now officially nominated current President Omar al-Bashir to stand for presidential elections in April 2010. President Bashir stepped down as a commander-in-chief in accordance with the electoral law, so that he can become a presidential candidate. The southern SPLM party is also expected to announce its candidate later this week, while violence in the South is still ongoing.

Sudan: SPLM's presidential candidate says confident of election victory, VOA News (2010)

Sudan People's Liberation Movement presidential candidate, Yassir Arman, who was recently arrested after participating in a protest for democratic reforms, said the election will be credible despite vote rigging allegations. With a program aiming at giving "just position to Darfur" and struggling for transformation and democratization, the SPLM leader said he's confident of winning the election.

Sudan extends deadline for election nominations, Reuters (2010)

Taking into consideration the candidates' complaints that they haven't had enough time to prepare the nominations for the April 11 elections, the election officials extended the deadline until January 27. However, this should not affect the election date.

Sudan's ousted Sadiq al-Mahdi enters election race, BBC News (2010)

Sudan's former prime minister Sadiq al-Mahdi, who was elected in the last multi-party elections in 1986 and overthrown by the current leader Omar al-Bashir, announced that he will contest in the upcoming presidential elections.

Sudan: Chaos before stability, Pambazuka News (2010)

This article gives Savo Heleta's analyses on Sudan’s current political situation and asks how suitable and feasible the planned April 2010 elections are.

Sudan: Upper Nile gearing up for elections, Relief Web (2010)

The Upper Nile State High Committee has identified 420 polling stations and counting on the help of the UNMIS to distribute elections materials to remote areas.

Sudan archbishop says April election can begin Sudan's transformation, US Catholic (2010)

The Archbishop of Sudan has appealed the voters to know more about the candidates before casting their votes and says this election can begin Sudan's transformation.

Protesters march against Sudan vote "clampdown", Reuters (2010)

A rare public rally held by more than 200 political activists in Khartoum on 4 March accusing authorities of clamping down on meetings and campaigns weeks ahead of elections.

AU Security Body Upbeat on Sudan Election Prospects, VOA News (2010)

The African Union Peace and Security Council says Sudan's elections for president and parliament have a reasonable chance of success in an outlook for Sudan's upcoming national elections.

South Sudan election candidate complains of arrests, Reuters (2010)

Dozens of supporters of a leading independent contesting the governorship of the region's main oil state South Sudan's government have been arrested.

Lack of Sudan voter awareness a major concern: EU, Reuters (2010)

A lack of Sudanese voter education is the major concern for the European Union's chief elections observer, who launched her mission on 11 March to monitor Sudan's first multi-party polls in 24 years.

Sudan: Darfur's election dilemma, BBC (2010)

Arranging an election in an area where many people live in refugee camps is far from straightforward in Darfur.

Sudan's Upper Nile youth on prevention of elections hostilities, Sudan Tribune (2010)

The youth from the Upper Nile state in Sudan held an awareness meeting on election hostility, with the aim to prevent the occurrence of violence during the upcoming elections. They fear that the campaigns will polarize communities and will degenerate into violence during elections, especially as many people are inexperienced voters. Therefore, they want to extend the initiative to other counties in the Upper Nile state and beyond.

South Sudan Journalists Facing Intimidation Before Election, VOA News (2010)

The Agency for Independent Media says since January, security forces in South Sudan have been clamping down on local media for broadcasting or printing content not approved by government officials

Sudan board partially delays election in South Kordofan, Sudan Tribune (2010)

The electoral process in South Kordofan state of Sudan has been partially postponed by the elections commission, following an accord reached by the two peace partners.

Sudan prez threatens to expel election observers, Washington Post (2010)

This article is on the threatening of Sudan's president to expel foreign observers over their recommendations to delay the country's first multiparty elections in decades due in April.

Q&A on Sudan elections, BBC (2010)

These are questions and answers on Sudan's first democratic election in 24 years when voters head for the polls from 11-13 April to elect their next president. They will also vote for members of the 450-seat National Assembly and governors for the county's 25 states, as well as members of state assemblies. Voters in the semi-autonomous southern region will additionally elect a president of the South Sudan government and members of its 171-seat Assembly.

UN: Clashes on Rise in South Sudan as Polls Near, VOA News (2010)

The incidents of inter-tribal violence have escalated in South Sudan before key elections, killing 450 and displacing nearly 60,000 since the beginning of this year , a U.N. official says. The April vote is to be Sudan's first multi-party polls in 24 years.

Southern Sudan Official Wants Mechanism to Prevent Election Violence, VOA News (2010)

A top official in the Government of Southern Sudan is expressing confidence that steps will be taken to prevent violence in the upcoming general elections scheduled for April 11-13.

Sudan elections put U.N., U.S. in an awkward spot, The Foreign Policy (2010)

The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court reminded the world how politically awkward the April 11-13 vote could prove: Sudanese President Omar Hassan al-Bashir, the first sitting head of state the court has charged with war crimes, may have his rule legitimized through a U.N.-backed election.

Reports That LRA's Kony is Hiding in Darfur Alarm South Sudan, VOA News (2010)

Following reports that the leader of the Ugandan Lord's Resistance Army rebels may be hiding in a Khartoum-controlled region of Darfur in Sudan, a researcher for the Washington-based Enough Project says it is still not clear where he is. There is concern that LRA forces are preparing to launch attacks in South Sudan during next month's national elections.

Sudan's Bashir threatens southern referendum, Reuters (2010)

Sudan's president warned former southern rebels on 29 March that if they refused to take part in April's elections, a southern referendum on secession would not happen.

Sudan’s Ruling Party Rigged Upcoming Vote, Crisis Group Says, Bloomberg (2010)

Sudanese President Umar al-Bashir’s government is rigging the country’s first multiparty elections in 24 years scheduled for next month, especially in the western region of Darfur.

Election Observers must monitor human rights during Sudanese Elections, Amnesty International (2010)

International observers deployed to Sudan for the presidential and parliamentary elections in April must monitor human rights as a key part of their brief, Amnesty International said on Friday.

Sudan Expert Says Yasir Arman's Withdrawal from Election Significant, VOA News (2010)

Officials from the former rebel group, the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM), said late Wednesday that their candidate, Yasir Arman, pulled out of the election because of electoral irregularities and continued conflict in Darfur.

Sudan urged to end political curbs, Aljazeera (2010)

The US has urged Sudan to eliminate restrictions on political parties in the run-up to general and presidential elections. Sudan is to hold the elections from April 11 to 13 - its first national poll since 1986.

Analysts: Coming Elections in Sudan Perilous for the Country's Present, Future, VOA News (2010)

Analysts in the United States say little good will come of the vote; as Sudan's opposition parties go back and forth over whether they will participate in next week's general elections April 11-13, with many parts of Darfur are still experiencing fighting despite a ceasefire.

Southern Sudan Party Widens its Boycott of Sunday's Election, VOA News (2010)

The main political party in Sudan's southern region – the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) – has decided to widen its planned boycott of next week’s national elections.

FACTBOX-Sudan's complex elections due to begin on April 11, Reuters (2010)

Sudan's first multi-party polls in 24 years are due to begin on Sunday, but they have already been marred by fraud accusations and boycott threats from political parties. Here are some key facts about the presidential, legislative and gubernatorial elections.

Sudan opposition Umma party will boycott elections, Reuters (2010)

Sudan's Umma Party, one of the main opposition parties, said on Wednesday it would boycott next week's presidential, legislative and gubernatorial polls, blighting their credibility.

Sudan: EU Withdraws Election Observers From Darfur, VOA News (2010)

The European Union is withdrawing its election observers from Sudan's Darfur region, just four days before Sudan begins national elections.

Campaigning ends in Sudan polls, Aljazeera (2010)

As presidential, parliamentary and regional elections are taking place on Sunday, April 11, incumbent president al-Bashir makes the final push for votes today, which is the last day of campaigning. As two of the largest opposition parties decided to boycott the elections, al-Bashir is virtually guaranteed re-election. As claims of widespread fraud loom, international observers are concerned about the elections, and parliamentarians from 12 other countries have called for close monitoring of any irregularities.

Sudan's landmark polls off to an uncertain start, BBC (2010)

While the Elections'process generally went well in the capital Khartoum into its second day, voters faced obstacles in several states from the Red Sea in the north to the far south.

Poll Observer: First Day of Sudan Voting was Peaceful, VOA News (2010)

A top official of the Carter Center’s poll observer team says Sudanese were generally interested in voting as the election continues into the second day in the scheduled three-day general election that began 11 April. David Carroll, director of the democracy program at the Carter Center said voting so far has been peaceful.

Voters head to the polls in Sudan, Aljazeera (2010)

Voters in Sudan went to the polls on 11 April in the country's first multi-party elections for 24 years. The elections have been hit by allegations of fraud and vote-rigging biased towards Omar al-Bashir's ruling National Congress Party, and the major opposition candidates have pulled out of key races in protest.

Sudan vote begins despite boycott, Aljazeera (2010)

The president of Sudan, has cast his ballot in an election that will decide whether he wins another term, despite few alternatives. Yasir Arman, a northern Muslim representing the former southern rebel Sudan People's Liberation Movement(SPLM), and Sadiq al-Mahdi of the Umma Party,have both withdrawn from the race.

Sudan extends landmark elections after ballot mix-ups, BBC (2010)

Sudan's election has been extended by two days, officials say, after delays in delivering ballot papers.

Sudan vote errors hit turnout: officials, Reuters (2010)

Sudanese politicians said on Tuesday poor logistics were preventing hundreds of thousands of voters from taking part in the country's first full election in 24 years, with some early turnout figures below 10 percent.

Sudan elections show up deep divides, Reuters (2010)

Sudan's elections were set up under a peace deal designed to unify the country, but in Khartoum they are showing up the oil-producing nation's deep divides.

Sudan mulls limited re-runs over election errors, Reuters (2010)

Sudanese election officials on Wednesday said they were considering re-running ballots in a very few constituencies to correct errors in voting forms, as the troubled poll entered its fourth day.

Rights Activists Describe Sudanese Elections as Rigged, say U.S. Not Tough Enough, VOA News (2010)

Human rights activists sharply criticized the Obama administration’s efforts in Sudan Wednesday and described the ongoing Sudanese elections as rigged and a sham.

Sudan Election Should Not Legitimize Bashir, Says Ambassador Frazer, VOA News (2010)

The former U.S Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs says Sudan’s general election scheduled to end Thursday reinforces the status quo which will allow President Omar Hassan Al-Bashir and his National Congress Party (NCP) to further dominate the country’s politics.

Sudan's Ruling Party Invites Opposition into Government, VOA News (2010)

Sudan's ruling party says it will invite opposition groups to join the government if it wins the ongoing elections.

Sudan begins counting in polls marred by boycotts, Reuters (2010)

Sudan began counting millions of ballots on Friday after five days of voting in the first open polls in 24 years, tainted by boycotts and accusations of fraud.

Sudan parties lure voters with budgets and buses, Reuters (2010)

This article shows stories from the Sudanese elections and the unequal party budgets.

Polls close in Sudan's first elections in two decades, BBC (2010)

The elections are the first multi-party polls in the country since 1986 and are part of a north-south peace deal which ended two decades of war in 2005. But the presidential, parliamentary and local polls have also been marred by voting irregularities and alleged rigging.

Analysts Say Sudan Elections Have Only Losers, VOA News (2010)

As vote counting begins in Sudan's week-long general elections, analysts are giving the dire assessment that there will be no winners, and only losers in the process.

Credibility of Sudan's Vote Thrown into Further Doubt, VOA News (2010)

The legitimacy of Sudan's elections has been thrown into further doubt following reports from observation teams the election will not meet international standards. Opposition parties in Khartoum say the vote was rigged and that they will not accept its results.

SPLM Official Disagrees with Observers on Transparency of Northern Sudan Vote, VOA News (2010)

An official with the AU observer mission – Kunle Adeyemi -- was quoted as saying that while the vote was not perfect, the group found no evidence of fraud.

African and Arabs organisations praise the conduct of Sudanese elections, Sudan Tribune (2010)

The African Union and Arab League Observation missions praised on Sunday the Sudanese elections rejecting reports by Carter Center and EU observer teams who said it did not meet the international standards.

Britain, Norway and US say Sudan Elections Marred by Irregularities, VOA News (2010)

Britain, Norway and the United States say Sudan's elections were marred by poor preparation and other suspected irregularities.

Sudan opposition claims video shows election fraud, BBC (2010)

Sudanese opposition activists have said a video which apparently shows election officials stuffing ballot boxes proves their claims of poll rigging.

No Date Yet for Final Sudan Election Results, VOA News (2010)

Sudan's elections commission says it has not determined when it will announce final results from last week's polls, the country's first multi-party elections in 24 years.

Sudan to reveal election results, BBC (2010)

Sudan's elections commission is due to announce the results of this month's landmark elections, with President Omar al-Bashir expected to retain power.

Dream election result for Sudan's President Bashir, BBC (2010)

President Omar al-Bashir got exactly what he wanted from these elections. His 68% share of the vote was convincing, and his party swept the North.

Sudan's imperfect but important elections, Los Angeles Times (2010)

The ruling party's President Omar Hassan Ahmed Bashir won 68% of the vote. Despite being opposed in advance and severely condemned by many critics, these elections will permit this war-torn nation to move toward a permanent peace and strengthen its quest for true democracy.

Fears of renewed violence after Bashir wins Sudanese election, Open Democracy (2010)

South and North Sudan at risk of violence after election results contested.

US envoy visits Sudan for first time since poll, Middle East Online (2010)

US envoy Scott Gration returned this week to Sudan, his first visit there since last month's controversial elections, to pursue efforts to stabilize both southern and western parts of the country.

Sudan: UNMIS Will Continue With Mandate, VOA News (2010)

This article is on extending the mandate of the UNMIS in Sudan.

Carter Center questions Sudan election accuracy, BBC (2010)

This article is on a report issued by Carter Centre questioning the accuracy of results for the Sudanese Elections

Sudan arrests opposition leader Turabi, Gulf Times (2010)

The Islamist opposition leader Hassan al-Turabi has been arrested by the Sudanese authorities yesterday and closed his newspaper, party officials said, sparking a furious reaction from the country’s opposition.

Sudanese president starts new term amid boycott calls, CNN (2010)

This article discusses the call for a boycott of the inauguration of the president of Sudan as many international observers raise concerns over voting irregularities. The elections were established as a part of the 2005 peace deal and the article also mentions an upcoming referendum on southern Sudan independence.

Sudan's Bashir Sworn In to Another 5-Year Term, VOA (2010)

Omar al-Bashir was sworn in as president in spite of a controversial election that was questioned by international elections monitors.

Sudan’s partial re-run elections to begin tomorrow, Sudan Tribune (2010)

The Sudanese National Elections Commission (NEC) have completed preparations for the elections re-run that will take place in 33 national and state electoral constituencies after they were canceled due to various factors including errors on the ballots.

Sudan: Referendum can be conducted without demarcated borders - Machar, Sudan Tribune (2010)

This article discusses the possibility of holding a referendum on South Sudan's independence and self-determination before clear and complete boundaries are drawn.

Sudanese president submits cabinet formation to NCP, swearing-in expected Monday, Sudan Tribune (2010)

This article discusses the nomination of a new government following April elections marred by accusations of fraud.

South Sudan ruling party losses Jonglei’s election rerun , Sudan Tribune (2010)

This article discusses the provisional results that indicate that an independent candidate has won in Jonglei's election rerun.

Sudan:Workshop for Voter Education Evaluation in W. Equatoria ends in Yambio, Sudan Tribune (2010)

A two-day workshop evaluating voter-education for last April's general election was held. Poor voter education has been cited as part of the reason for low-voter turnout and mistakes at the polling stations.

Sudan Parliament Appoints Commission to Prepare for Referendum, VOA (2010)

Lawmakers in Sudan have voted to establish a commission to manage a referendum on the separation of the country. The commission will be responsible for, amongst other things, voter registration across the country.

Sudan: Widespread Abuses Bode Ill for Referendum - Hold Security Forces Accountable for Violations in April 2010 Elections, All Africa (2010)

A report from the group Human Rights Watch indicates that there were considerable incidents of human rights violations and electoral fraud during last April's elections. The concerns are especially significant in light of the upcoming referendum in the country.

Investigate election-related abuses, rights body tells Sudan, Sudan Tribune (2010)

Human Rights Watch has urged Sudanese authorities to take action against perpetrators of election violence during last April's presidential vote. The group issued a report that noted incidents of intimidation, restrictions on free speech and physical violence.

Sudan:Observer group pledges commitment towards Referendum, Sudan Tribune (2010)

The Sudanese Network for Democratic Elections (SuNDE) has pledged to encourage transparency and public confidence in the system by documenting and reporting its findings for the observation of the upcoming referendum.

Sudan slams negative position from referendum campaign, Sudan Tribune (2010)

The opposition forces' attitude towards the issue of 2011 referendum was criticized by a presidential adviser saying that they are not joining the government's efforts and campaign to preserve Sudan’s unity.

Ruling party warns against secession advocacy ahead of Sudan Referendum, VOA News (2010)

A prominent member of Sudan’s ruling National Congress Party (NCP) said any campaign or promotion of south Sudan’s secession contravenes the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), as well as the country’s interim constitution.

South Sudan opposition No 2 defects to SPLM, Gulf News (2010)

The deputy head of a key opposition party in south Sudan and other top officials defected to the ruling party yesterday 19 July, less than six months before a referendum on independence for the region.

African CSOs calls for free, fair referendum for Southern Sudan, Afrique Avenir (2010)

African civil society organizations (CSOs) on Tuesday urged the African Union Commission and the international community to redouble their efforts to make the impending Sudanese referendum free, fair and meet international standards.

EU Council conclusions on Sudan, EU (2010)

The Council of the European Union has issued a press release included conclusions on Sudan.

Sudan: Domestic observer group taunts NEC, calls for early referendum arrangements, Sudan Tribune (2010)

Sudan Domestic Election Monitoring and Observation Programme (SuDEMOP) mentioned in its latest report, that Sudan’s general elections fell below internationally agreed standards largely due to lack of transparency and proper coordination within the National Elections Commission (NEC),

Sudanese polls a milestone, says Ban, calling for greater expansion of democratic space, UN News Centre (2010)

Presidential and parliamentary elections in Sudan in April marked an important milestone in the implementation of the peace agreement that ended civil war in the country despite operational challenges, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says in a new report, urging both parties to the deal to continue their efforts to expand the democratic process.

UN mulling panel to monitor south Sudan referendum, Times of India (2010)

A panel of three eminent persons are to be appointed by UN chief Ban Ki-moon to monitor next January's landmark referendum in south Sudan, his top advisor on peacekeeping said Wednesday 4 August.

Sudan: Domestic observer group taunts NEC, calls for early referendum arrangements, Sudan tribune (2010)

A local observer group appealed to the bodies formed for purposes of the referendum, to collaborate and coordinate with NGOs, civil society organizations, media and local artists to conduct early massive civic education campaigns across the country.

South Sudan Official Warns People Not Ready For January Vote, VOA (2010)

There are concerns about what is described as the referendum commission’s ill-preparedness to organize the scheduled January 9 2011 vote, according to chief coordinator for the International Campaign Countdown to South Sudan’s referendum.

Q&A-What are Sudan's former north-south foes negotiating?, Reuters (2010)

Here are answers to questions on the talks between the northern ruling National Congress Party and south Sudan's dominant Sudan People Liberation Movement (SPLM) have restarted talks on post-plebiscite arrangements, negotiations which could lead to a new state.

Sudan's North-South Leaders Begin Referendum Talks, VOA (2010)

Leaders from northern and southern Sudan are holding negotiations on how to run the country after next year's referendum that will determine if the south becomes an independent state.

South Sudan Task force to organize voters in the Diaspora for referendum, Sudan Tribune (2010)

The Task force established in Southern Sudan has resolved to organize Southern Sudanese in the Diaspora into referendum coordinating committees in their respective countries, particularly in the locations which the referendum law allows residents to vote during the seven-day referendum.

Sudan Referendum Commission Chairman Seeks Successful Vote Despite Delays, VOA News (2010)

The chairman of Sudan’s Referendum Commission told VOA his organization is working to ensure the scheduled 9th January vote is successful, despite sharp disagreements that have led to delays in some of the activities of the commission.

South Sudan plans to bring home 1.5 million referendum voters, Reuters (2010)

South Sudan plans to bring home 1.5 million displaced southerners from the north in time to vote in an independence referendum in January, according to government documents.

“Don’t register if you cannot vote,” Sudan’s Machar cautions, Sudan Tribue (2010)

The Vice President of the semi-autonomous Government of Southern Sudan (GoSS) Riek Machar has cautioned potential voters not to only register, but also vote during the referendum’s seven-day voting exercise scheduled to starting on January 9, 2011.

In daring step, young activists promote democracy in Sudan, Boston Globe (2010)

A story of young Sudanese activists who needed a name. They picked Girifna, Arabic for “we are fed up.’’ They chose orange for their color and the V for victory sign as a logo, then began distributing their first pamphlet. Challenging the ruling party was risky in a country where political dissent is rarely tolerated, the activists said. But they saw a small opening before elections in April, as the United States and European Union pressed the government to ensure a free and fair vote.

Sudan referendum body agrees post to end deadlock, Reuters (2010)

This article is about appointing Mohamed Osman al-Nujoomi in the position of the Secretary General to the Sudanese National Election Mission. He has previously worked in the finance ministry and the President would appoint al-Nujoomi to the post.

NCP Official: Sudan Will Not Undermine Referendum, VOA News (2010)

This article is about a top official of Sudan’s dominant National Congress Party (NCP) denying reports that the government will use the military to destabilize the semi-autonomous south Sudan ahead of the January referendum.

Clinton: Southern Sudan Independence Vote 'Inevitable', VOA News (2010)

This article refers to a statement by U.S. Secretary of State said that a secession vote by the people of southern Sudan in January is "inevitable." Clinton telephoned senior leaders of the coalition government in Khartoum as part of a U.S. diplomatic effort to make the expected north-south split as peaceful as possible.

Southern Sudan Referendum Commission Expects to Register Voters in October, Bloomberg (2010)

This news is from the commission organizing Southern Sudan’s referendum on independence which set for Jan. 9 plans to start registering voters next month, a spokesman for the body said.

International Community Urged to Fund South Sudan Referendum, VOA News (2010)

This article is on a statement by a former south Sudan envoy to Kenya who urged the international community to expedite the disbursement of promised funds to help with the organization of the scheduled 9th January referendum next year.

Sudan turns down U.S. incentives to ease referendum, Washington Times (2010)

This articles is on rejecting a set of incentives by the Sudanese government , delivered over the weekend from U.S. special envoy Scott Gration that included an offer to lift sanctions.

South Sudan independence vote stokes concerns, Los Angeles Times (2010)

This article is on the southern region which is expected to pass a referendum in January to secede from the north, but the U.S. and others, who support the vote, fear it could ignite a civil war.

Sudan slow to act on referendum, official says, Washington Times (2010)

This article describes the delaying the Jan. 9 referendum on whether to divide Sudan into two countries would create instability and renew violence in the African nation, as the Sudanese First Vice President Salva Kiir, president of southern Sudan warned.

Sudan delays referendum voters' registration, BBC (2010)

This article is on Sudan which is delaying the registration of voters for January's referendum on secession for the south until November, raising tensions over the timetable.

Sudan's Ruling Party Sets Conditions for Vote, VOA (2010)

This article is on NCP official says failure of southern Sudan's autonomous government to follow guidelines will invalidate January 9 referendum

Central Sudan tribe warn of war if no referendum vote, Reuters (2010)

This news is on Sudan's powerful Missiriya tribe has warned it would fight anyone who prevented its members voting in a referendum on whether the oil-producing central Abyei region will join the south in a likely secession.

Carter Center Deploys International Referendum Observers in Sudan, Carter Centre (2010)

This press release announced that the Carter Center has deployed 16 long-term observers from 12 nations this week to assess the referendum process in Southern Sudan and in the areas in the North where voting will occur. Four two-person observer teams have been deployed in Southern Sudan, three teams in Northern Sudan, and one team in Abyei.

UN could police parts of north-south Sudan border, Reuters (2010)

The article talks on the U.N. peacekeepers that they could create limited buffer zones in hotspots along the border of north and south Sudan before a referendum on independence is held in the south of the country, Security Council diplomats said .

NGO Official Warns Disputes Could Undermine Sudan Referendum, VOA (2010)

This article is about an official of the International Crisis Group, a non-governmental organization (ICG); has warned that the ongoing accusations and counter accusations between the Sudan’s ruling National Congress Party (NCP) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) could endanger the scheduled 9th January referendum.

Abyei referendum to be delayed, say northern officials, Open Democracy (2010)

This article is on the news that Vote in Abyei to be delayed, say northern officials, stoking fears of a return to conflict in Sudan.

South Sudanese agree on post-secession elections, census,Reuters (2010)

This article is on more than 20 southern Sudanese political parties which have agreed to hold a fresh census, new elections and rewrite the constitution if the south secedes as expected in less than three months.

UN Continues to Providing Support to Sudan Ahead of Referendum, All Africa (2010)

This article is about the readiness of the United Nations to assist the upcoming referendum that will decide whether southern Sudan declares independence from Africa's largest country, an official with the world body said today, with voter registration set to kick off in two weeks.

Sudan faces hard cash shortage before independence vote, Reuters (2010)

This article is on the shortage of foreign currency in Sudan, ahead of an independence referendum in the south has left many banks unable to meet demand or provide importers with letters of credit, bankers and clients said on Wednesday.

Sudan Referendum Commission Spokesman Denies Internal Rift, VOA News (2010)

The article says that the spokesman for Sudan’s referendum commission has denied reports that the alleged dictatorial management style of Mohamed Ibrahim Khalil, chairman of the organization, threatens to derail the scheduled 9th January referendum.

South Sudan begins registering for referendum on independence, France 24 (2010)

This news article shows that the people of South Sudan have begun signing up to vote in a January referendum on independence that could herald a split between the mainly Muslim north and the majority Christian and animist south.

British radio stations to air ads for Sudan referendum, The Independent (2010)

This news article says that the British listeners could soon be hearing radio adverts for a Sudanese referendum on independence after a group responsible for publicising the vote began bidding for airtime on British commercial stations.

SUDAN: Excitement, frustration as referendum registration gets under way, IRIN (2010)

This article says that officials in Southern Sudan have expressed satisfaction four days into registration for a landmark referendum due in January, in which voters are likely to opt to transform the semi-autonomous territory into an independent state.

A bombing Raid on Registration Center in South Sudan, VOA News (2010)

This news article reports from the spokesman for the Sudan People’s Liberation Army, Phillip Aguer, said a plane belonging to the Sudan Air Force bombed civilians at a voter registration center in Malual County in Northern Barh el Ghazal state. He claimed four soldiers and two civilians were wounded in the attack.

Sudan: UN Beefs Up Monitoring of Returnees in the South, All Africa (2010)

This news article is on the efforts of the UN to assist in the return of refugees and displaced persons in Sudan, that it has enhanced its monitoring of the number of people going back to their homes in the country's south.

Optimism, But No Deal, at Summit on Sudan Referendum, VOA News (2010)

This news article is about an East African regional summit on Sudan which has ended with no deal between north and south on key disputes threatening a referendum on southern independence. But the two sides did agree to keep talking as time for a deal runs short.

Sudan: Abyei: Bashir and Kiir set for talks over delayed referendum, Sudan Tribune (2010)

This news article is about plans to hold a referendum in the oil-producing Abyei region may remain on course after it emerged that Sudanese President Omar Hassan al-Bashir and his Government of Southern Sudan (GoSS) counterpart, Salva Kiir Mayardit are due to hold talks this weekend.

Sudan: Securing a peaceful divorce, IRIN (2010)

This analysis from IRIN is discussing issues related to the possibility of creating a new country.

Sudan Ruling Party Supports Extension of Voter Registration Period, VOA News (2010)

This news article is about a prominent member of Sudan’s ruling National Congress Party (NCP) who told VOA that his party and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) will soon hold discussions to extend the period of the ongoing voter registration process ahead of the 9th January referendum.

Sudan’s SSRC ignites fears of vote delay as it reopens ballot tender, Sudan Tribune (2010)

This new article says the commission organizing the vote on south Sudan independence has asked the United Nations (UN) to reopen the tender to print the referendum’s ballot cards for Sudanese bidders, fueling the already-existing fears of a vote postponement and possible manipulation.

UN panel welcomes conclusion of voter registration for south Sudan referendum, UN News Centre (2010)

This news article is on the registration of voters ahead of the next month’s referendum on the self-determination of Southern Sudan which has been concluded, the United Nations panel monitoring the process said today, welcoming the peaceful and orderly conduct of the exercise.

Sudan's Referendum in Abyei will not take place , Bloomberg (2010)

This news article shows that Sudan’s disputed border region of Abyei will not hold a scheduled referendum on whether to join the north or south because of a disagreement over who can vote, an aide to President Umar al-Bashir said.

Voter registration for South Sudan referendum ends, Sudan Tribune (2010)

This news article is on the South Sudan Referendum Commission (SSRC) which announced 8 Dec that voter registration for Southerners is closed as of today 8 Dec, a milestone towards the plebiscite scheduled to be held in 30 days.

Japan to Send 15 Observers to Monitor Referendum in Sudan, Qatar News Agency (2010)

In this news , the Japanese government decided Friday 10 Dec, to dispatch 15 observers to a referendum in Sudan beginning January 9 on the independence of oil-rich Southern Sudan.

Sudan Referendum Commission denies referendum act violations, VOA News (2010)

This news article is on an official of Sudan’s referendum commission who expressed concern that a Constitutional Court ruling that seeks to dissolve his organization could jeopardize the organization of the scheduled 9th January referendum.

Concerns increase over possible delay of south Sudan referendum, The People's Daily (2010)

his news article says concerns rose over possibility that south Sudan referendum may not be conducted as scheduled on Jan. 9, 2011, after the Sudanese Constitutional Court accepted an appeal demanding cancellation of procedures of voter registration.

Carter Center Finds Southern Sudan Voter Registration Credible, Strong Step Toward Referendum Despite Some Weaknesses, Cater Centre (2010)

In a statement issued today 15 Dec, The Carter Center reported that although the voter registration for the Southern Sudan Referendum on self-determination faced several logistical, procedural, and security challenges, the process was generally credible and represents a strong step toward the successful conduct of the referendum. At the same time, the Center noted that the ultimate success of the voter registration process will depend on the final stages of completing the voter list.

Sudan's Highest Court to Probe Vote Complaints, The Middle East (2010)

This news article says that the Constitutional Court agreed on Tuesday14 Dec, to investigate a petition by Sudanese lawyers for the dissolution of the body organising the referendum on a southern secession, which could derail the January 9 vote, state media said.

UN: Voter registration for south Sudan referendum transparent, Xinhua News (2010)

This news article is about a statement by the UN on Thursday 16 Dec, said that voter registration for south Sudan referendum was transparent and free from organized manipulation, but acknowledged the process was accompanied by some mistakes.

Sudan’s Bashir to reinforce sharia after referendum, Radio Netherlands (2010)

This news article says President Omar al-Bashir said on Sunday 19 Dec, that northern Sudan will reinforce its Islamic laws after a January referendum which is expected to grant independence to the south.

Humanitarian Organizations in Sudan Prepare for Referendum Aftermath, VOA News (2010)

This news article is about the humanitarian organizations in Sudan which are preparing for the possible results by moving three months of emergency supplies into areas where they think conflict could occur, with the referendum on southern independence just 19 days away.

EU to deploy 110 observers to monitor South Sudan referendum, Sudan Tribune (2010)

This news article says the European Union has announced it will deploy 110-strong team of observers to assess South Sudan independence vote which is set to take place in January 2011.

Sudan Referendum Commission to respond to dissolution efforts, VOA News (2010)

This news article is about an official with Sudan’s referendum commission who said the commission is set to officially respond Wednesday to petitions seeking the group’s dissolution ahead of next month’s referendum.

Sudan party to form north opposition group after split, Reuters (2010)

This news article says South Sudan's main party said it would form a separate opposition group in the north if the country split in two after a referendum next month, and would seek support from marginalized people, even Darfur rebels.

Referendum for southern Sudan, All Voices (2010)

This news article shows that millions of ballot papers reached to southern Sudan on Wednesday 22 Dec, in one step dispel doubts ahead of a referendum on southern secession decision next month

Sudan war exiles eager to make their mark, BBC (2010)

This news article is about the Sudanese refugees, who fled the civil war as children, others came here as adults. But almost all believe that voting for independence in January is their best chance of returning home.

Sudan: Ready to secure referendum polling - SPLA, Relief Web (2011)

This news article is about the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) which said it has completed all arrangements to secure the border between southern Sudan and the neighboring countries throughout the referendum period.

Sudan Referendum Commission Assures Smooth Vote, VOA News (2010)

This news article says an official of Sudan’s referendum commission has reassured southern Sudanese that the 9th January referendum will proceed as originally scheduled despite attempts by opponents seeking dissolution of his organization ahead of the self determination vote.

Sudan President Bashir to visit South Sudan ahead of Referendum, VOA News (2011)

In this news article, a prominent member of Sudan’s governing National Congress Party (NCP) said President Omar Hassan al-Bashir will soon visit semi-autonomous south Sudan ahead of the 9th January referendum.

Sudan: Q & A: The road to the referendum, Aljazeera (2011)

Here is a number of Q & A, on Sudan which faces a decisive moment when its semi-autonomous south goes to a referendum on January 9 to decide whether to remain part of Africa's largest country or secede.

China says it will send observers to Sudan referendum, Reuters (2011)

This news article is about China which will send observers to Sudan when the south holds an independence referendum on January 9, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday 4 Jan.

Sudan's Bashir Visits South Ahead of Independence Vote, VOA News (2011)

This news article is about the visit of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir to southern Sudan Tuesday, ahead of next week's independence referendum that is expected to split Africa's largest country in two and form a new nation.

On eve of South Sudan independence vote, UN ramps up its multiple roles, UN News Centre (2011)

This news article says Southern Sudan gears up for a week-long independence referendum starting on Sunday 9 Jan, that could split Africa’s largest country in two, the United Nations is ramping up its multiple roles, from monitoring the vote to providing aid to returning southerners to preparing options for a worst-case scenario, however unlikely, of renewed warfare.

Polling for the 2011 Southern Sudan Referendum to commence in the UK, Relief Web (2011)

This news article says that London is the only poling station in Europe. On 9 January 2011, polling for the 2011 Southern Sudan Referendum commences and will continue until 15 January 2011. It will take place in both northern and southern Sudan and in eight other countries with significant diaspora populations, including the UK.

Rebel Attacks Reported on Eve of South Sudan Referendum, VOA News (2011)

This news article is on South Sudanese officials who say rebel attacks in an oil-rich area along the dividing line with north Sudan have killed at least six people in two days. The incidents come as southern Sudanese count down the hours until polls open for a week-long referendum on independence.

Many Sudanese Leave North For South Ahead Of Sunday’s Vote, VOA News (2011)

This news article is on the United Nations refugee agency which reports the number of southerners leaving northern Sudan ahead of Sunday’s independence referendum has doubled since mid-December. The UNHCR says the returnees are leaving because they are uncertain about what might happen to them should independence be declared.

Southern Sudan votes on independence, BBC (2011)

This news coverage from the BBC shows huge numbers of people voting in Southern Sudan in a landmark referendum on independence from the north.

First day of south Sudan vote ends, Aljazeera (2011)

This news article is about closing the Polling stations on the first day of voting in Southern Sudan's week-long referendum on secession. 1,400 international observers are deployed across Sudan to see firsthand that the referendum passes off without any incident. This festive atmosphere was disturbed with deadly clashes reported in Abyei, hours after voting started. Abyei residents are not voting in the south's referendum.

Southern Sudan referendum in pictures, BBC (2011)

Pictures from the BBC on the first day of the Southern Sudan referendum on 9 Jan 2011.

Sudan north-south border clashes kill 23, Reuters (2011)

This news article says at least 23 people have died in clashes with Arab nomads near Sudan's north-south border, leaders in the contested Abyei region said on Monday 10 Jan, on the second day of a week-long referendum on southern independence.

Southern Sudan in Second Day of Independence Referendum, VOA News (2011)

This news article is on opening Polls for the second day 10 Jan, of southern Sudan's historic independence referendum. U.S. President Barack Obama said Sunday the international community is determined that all parties in Sudan live up to their obligations, and the U.N. Security Council has expressed "deep concern" about the lack of an agreement on Abyei.

Sudan vote passes 60 percent threshold, Reuters (2011)

This news article says more than 60 percent of voters have already taken part in south Sudan's independence referendum, meaning the result of the vote will now be valid, a senior southern official said on Wednesday.

Vulnerable voters given special consideration in Sudan referendum, Sudan Votes (2011)

This news article shows that Polling officials and local authorities in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State have confirmed that vulnerable groups of voters are receiving special treatment in the ongoing referendum exercise, enabling them to cast their ballots.

South Sudan independence vote proceeding smoothly so far-UN officials, UN News Centre (2011)

With one day left to go in the historic referendum on the future of Southern Sudan; this news article shows that United Nations officials today voiced their satisfaction at the strong turnout and smooth proceedings witnessed so far during the week-long polls.

Southern Sudan referendum - Vote counting begun in Fugnido Refugee Center, Relief Web (2011)

This news article is about the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission (SSRC) which said vote counting begun in Fugnido Refugee Center in Gambella State. SSRC Representative in Ethiopia, told said on Sunday 16 Jan, that voting was held from 9-15 January, 2010 in two polling stations of the Center.

UN panel on Sudan referendum satisfied with polling, commends organizers, UN News Centre (2011)

This news article is about the United Nations panel tasked with monitoring the referendum on the future status of Southern Sudan today welcomed yesterday''s conclusion of polling, saying the process was well organized and enabled the people of the region to express their will freely.

In Sudan, Early Results Strongly Lean to Secession, New York Times (2011)

This news article shows that Southern Sudanese election officials posted early results on Sunday 16 Jan, indicating that perhaps more than 95 percent of voters in this regional capital voted to secede from Sudan.

South Sudan independence vote credible: observers, Reuters (2011)

This news article describes the South Sudan's independence referendum as credible and well organized, European observers said in their first official judgment on the poll on Monday 17 Jan, moving the region a step closer to secession.

Observers Declare Sudan Voting a Success, VOA News (2011)

This news article says, the Carter Center, European Union and African Union, have all called voting in the referendum peaceful, fair and transparent. Each organization’s preliminary results were released within two days of the end of voting and do not include any observations from the ongoing counting process.

Split from north Sudan favored by south, The Washington Times (2011)

This news article is about early results for a referendum on splitting the country in two, which officials in Sudan said it show that more than 98 percent of voters in and near the south's capital of Juba voted for independence from the north. The referendum panel for Central Equatoria State posted its results for the weeklong voting, which ended Saturday, Associated Press reported. Southern President Salva Kiir urged southerners to wait to celebrate until complete results are announced in mid-February.

Results of Sudan referendum set for early February, CNN (2011)

This news article is about the preliminary results of a referendum on an independent Southern Sudan which will be announced in the next few days, with final results as early as February 7, the national commission that organized the vote said Tuesday (25 Jan).

South Sudan votes 99 percent to separate from north, Reuters (2011)

In this news article; South Sudan almost unanimously voted to declare independence from the north in a referendum, officials said on Sunday, sparking mass celebrations in the southern capital Juba.

Sudan: SSRC announces amalgamated preliminary results, Southern Sudan Referendum Commission (2011)

In this news; the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission announced today the amalgamated preliminary results of the referendum in the southern and northern states and the eight diaspora countries.The Chairman of the Commission, asserted that percentage of those who have voted for secession in the south stands at 99, 57 and 43% for unity. The percentage of those who have voted for secession in the north is 57, 65%, while the percentage of those who have voted for secession In the eight diaspora countries is 98,55%, and 1,45 supported unity. The total percentage in favour of secession is 98, 83, and 1,17% for unity.

South Sudan independence referendum result expected, BBC (2011)

This news article says the final results of Southern Sudan's referendum on independence are due to be announced. Provisional results showing nearly 99% in favour of dividing Africa's biggest country are expected to be confirmed.

Sudan leader to accept secession of South, New York Times (2011)

This news article is about the announcement of final voting results and about President of Sudan who said Monday that his government would accept the choice of the long-embattled region of southern Sudan to separate from the north, setting the stage for the creation of the world’s newest country this summer. According to the final count, announced in Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, 98.83 percent of the more than 3.8 million registered voters in southern Sudan chose to separate from the north. In many parts of the country the vote was over 99 percent.

South Sudan After The Referendum, Eurasia Review (2011)

This article discusses the challenges facing the Southern Sudan after the successful Referendum process: peace and security issues in the region and economically viable co-existence between the two Sudanese states.

South Sudan Reports Progress on Seperation Issues, VOA News (2011)

South Sudan is reporting progress on issues that remain to be resolved with the northern Khartoum government. Just two weeks after final results from the south’s referendum were announced, they are nearing agreements on how to handle the south’s oil and currency after separation.

Sudan's Omar al-Bashir 'will not seek re-election' , BBC (2011)

In this news article; Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir will not stand in the next presidential election due in four years. The move is part of a package of reforms aimed at democratising the country according to an official.

Sudan to hold referendum on make-up of Darfur, Reuters (2011)

In this news article; Sudan said it would hold a referendum on whether to unify the three states of its Darfur territory into one region, a contentious issue at the heart of its eight-year conflict. Darfur is currently divided into three states with their own governors and administrations; North, South and West Darfur.

Sudan: Post-referendum political tensions hit new high, Relief Web (2011)

This news article talks about the unrest after the referendum and the Southern ruling party have unveiled documents showing that the Northern Congress Party is backing the Southern Militias.

[···]

 

[···]

 

Sudan to Hold Darfur Administrative Referendum in July, Businessweek (2011)

The article discusses the administrative structure of Darfur area in Western Sudan. A referendum will be conducted in July on whether to divide three Darfurian states or keep them as separate units.

Sudan’s ruling party denies early elections plan, Sudan Tribune (2012)

This news article says that Sudan’s ruling National Congress Party (NCP) denied calling for early elections in the country and reiterated that it is sticking to maintaining the president of the republic and the parliament until the end of the term of their mandate in 2015.