Eastern Sudan Peace Agreement

Export agreement:

Export agreement coding (PDF)

Country/entity: Sudan
Eastern Sudan
Region: Africa (excl MENA)
Agreement name: Eastern Sudan Peace Agreement
Date: 19 Jun 2006
Agreement status: Multiparty signed/agreed
Interim arrangement: Yes
Agreement/conflict level: Intrastate/intrastate conflict
Sudan Conflicts (1955 - )
Agreements relate to several distinct dyads, and also the negotiated independence of South Sudan, and subsequent internal conflict in South Sudan. Sudan-South Sudan. The long-standing conflict between the north and the south of the country dates back to colonial times, where the British introduced a so-called ‘Southern Policy’, severely hampering population movements between these big regions. Immediately after gaining independence in 1956, southern movements started to fight for independence; this fight became professionalised in 1983 with the foundation of the soon internationally supported Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA). When the Islamic Front government introduced strict sharia laws in the south after it took over power in 1988 the war intensified. A decade later, the military situation reached a stalemate, enabling internationally facilitated peace negotiations to begin in 1997. After more fighting, a final negotiation push began in 2002, leading to the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Areement (CPA) in January 2005.

Sudan-South Sudan post referendum. South Sudan became independent in July 2011; since then, relations between the two countries are complicated and violent conflict led by the SPLM (North) in the Sudanese Nuba mountains region has since intensified.

Darfur. Other long-standing violent conflicts are in the east and the west of the country. In the east, the Beja Congress, established in 1957, is the spearhead of a currently ‘peaceful’ opposition movement. In the west, the violent conflict in Darfur intensified in the early 2000s and rapidly gained international attention, even resulting in genocide charges against leading figures of the Sudanese government. The situation on the ground is complex, with over a dozen organisations (most notably the Sudanese Liberation Movement and the Justice and Equality Movement) fighting the Sudanese government and allied groups like the Janjaweed – although all parties have switched sides on numerous occasions. Several mediation attempts have not been successful, due to the shaky commitment of the Sudanese central government and the distrust among the armed opposition.

South Sudan - internal
In December 2013, after president Salva Kiir accused opposition leader Riek Machar of attempting a coup, violent conflict broke out between government forces of the SPLM/A and anti-governmental groups. In addition, several other political militias as well as communal militias have joined the conflict. In 2015 the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (ARCSS) was signed. Due to unsuccessful implementation the agreement was revitalized in 2018. In September 2019, Kiir and Machar agreed to establish a power-sharing government after struggles on forming a unity transitional government.
Stage: Framework/substantive - comprehensive
Conflict nature: Government/territory
Peace process: Eastern Sudanese Peace Process
Parties: Government of Sudan; Eastern Sudan Front Sudan
Third parties: -
Description: Agreement comprises four chapters. The first addresses governance issues and the political participation of Eastern Sudan people, including the etsablishment of a Coordinating Council for Eastern Sudan states. The second deals with economic, social and cultural issues including the principle of wealth sharing and management of natural resrouces. The third comprises provisions on a ceasefire and security sector reform including integration of the Eastern Front into the national army. The fourth calls for a Consultative Conference on the Eastern Sudan Peace Agreement (ESPA), gathering all the stakeholders (including traditional leaders, political parties, civil society organizations, trade unions, religious leaders, business leaders and members of the diaspora, to publicize and moilise support fo the ESPA, build momentum for implementaiton and provide a forum to all stake holders to provide recommendation to the Eastern Sudan authorities. The agreement incorporates Six other agreements.

Agreement document: SD_061014_Eastern Sudan Peace Agreement.pdf (opens in new tab) | Download PDF

Main category: Page 7, CHAPTER ONE, POLITICAL ISSUES: GOVERNANCE AND POWER, Article 1
... 7. Women shall be fairly represented in all government institutions at all levels and their equal and effective participation ensured.

Page 10, CHAPTER ONE, POLITICAL ISSUES: GOVERNANCE AND POWER, ARTICLE 7
... 19. Special measures shall be taken to ensure the participation of women in all institutions at all levels of government

Page 11, CHAPTER ONE, POLITICAL ISSUES: GOVERNANCE AND POWER, ARTICLE 8: The Council of Ministers
...23. Prior to the elections, and with a view to reflecting the need for unity and inclusiveness, the GoS shall ensure effective representation of the people Eastern Sudan, including the Eastern Sudan Front, as follows:
... (c) Special effort shall be made to ensure that women are represented in these nominations.

Page 11, CHAPTER ONE, POLITICAL ISSUES: GOVERNANCE AND POWER, ARTICLE 9: The National Assembly
... 24. Prior to the elections and with a view to reflecting the need for unity and inclusiveness the GoS shall ensure the representation of Eastern Sudanese in the National Assembly, including the Eastern Front. In this regard, not less than eight seats shall be allocated to nominees of the Eastern Sudan Front. It is highly recommended that some of the nominees be women.

Page 19, CHAPTER TWO, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ISSUES, Article 22
75. The following shall be the fundamental objectives of development in Eastern Sudan:
... (k) Ensuring that all the development programs address the specific needs of women;

Page 29, CHAPTER FOUR, CONSULTATIVE CONFERENCE ON EASTERN SUDAN PEACE AGREEMENT, Article 33
... 140. All the stakeholders, including community and traditional leaders, political parties, civil society organizations, trade unions, professionals, religious leaders, business leaders, and members of the diaspora shall participate in the CC ESPA. There shall be adequate and effective representation of women and youth.

Women, girls and gender

Participation: Participation→Gender quotas
Page 11, CHAPTER ONE, POLITICAL ISSUES: GOVERNANCE AND POWER, ARTICLE 9
The National Assembly
24. Prior to the elections and with a view to reflecting the need for unity and inclusiveness the GoS shall ensure the representation of Eastern Sudanese in the National Assembly, including the Eastern Front. In this regard, not less than eight seats shall be allocated to nominees of the Eastern Sudan Front. It is highly recommended that some of the nominees be women.
Participation→Effective participation
Page 7, CHAPTER ONE, POLITICAL ISSUES: GOVERNANCE AND POWER, Article 1
...
7. Women shall be fairly represented in all government institutions at all levels and their equal and effective participation ensured.

Page 10, CHAPTER ONE, POLITICAL ISSUES: GOVERNANCE AND POWER, ARTICLE 7
...
19. Special measures shall be taken to ensure the participation of women in all institutions at all levels of government

Page 11, CHAPTER ONE, POLITICAL ISSUES: GOVERNANCE AND POWER, ARTICLE 8: The Council of Ministers
...
23. Prior to the elections, and with a view to reflecting the need for unity and inclusiveness, the GoS shall ensure effective representation of the people Eastern Sudan, including the Eastern Sudan Front, as follows:
...
(c) Special effort shall be made to ensure that women are represented in these nominations.

Page 29, CHAPTER FOUR, CONSULTATIVE CONFERENCE ON EASTERN SUDAN PEACE AGREEMENT, Article 33

140. All the stakeholders, including community and traditional leaders, political parties, civil society organizations, trade unions, professionals, religious leaders, business leaders, and members of the diaspora shall participate in the CC ESPA. There shall be adequate and effective representation of women and youth.
Equality: No specific mention.
Particular groups of women: No specific mention.
International law: No specific mention.
New institutions: No specific mention.
Violence against women: No specific mention.
Transitional justice: No specific mention.
Institutional reform: No specific mention.
Development: Development→General
Page 19, CHAPTER TWO, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ISSUES, Article 22
75. The following shall be the fundamental objectives of development in Eastern Sudan:
...
(k) Ensuring that all the development programs address the specific needs of women;
Implementation: No specific mention.
Other: No specific mention.

Eastern Sudan Peace Agreement

For the purpose of this Agreement:

DEFINITIONS

Assembly:

the process of relocation of the Eastern Sudan Front’s former combatants into selected sites for purpose of their disarmament and integration into selected security institutions.

Parties:

the parties to this Agreement, Government of Sudan and the Eastern Sudan Front.

Assembly Areas:

locations where combatants go through the disarmament and demobilization Process.

D-day:

means the day this Agreement is signed.

Demobilization:

the process by which the Eastern Front begins to disband their military structure and former combatants begin the process of transformation into civilian life.

Disarmament:

the collection, control and disposal of small arms, light and heavy weapons and including de-mining.

Former combatant:

former members of the Eastern Front.

Internally Displaced Persons” (IDPs): persons or groups of persons who have been forced or obliged to flee their homes or places of habitual residence, in particular as a result of, or in order to avoid, the effects of armed conflict, situations of generalized violence, violations of human rights or natural or man-made disasters and who have not crossed an international border.

Eastern Sudan Front/ Eastern Front:

are used interchangablly to mean the East.

Reintegration:

assistance of measures provided to former combatants in order to increase the potential for their economic and social for their economic and social absorption into civil society.

War affected Persons:

persons or groups of people who have suffered persecution during the conflict in Eastern Sudan as well as those whose life and livelihoods have been adversely affected as a result of the conflict.

Agreement:

refers to the Eastern Sudan Peace Agreement (ESPA)

In the Name of Allah the Most Merciful and the Most Passionate PREAMBLE

WHEREAS the Government of the Sudan (GoS) and the Eastern Sudan Front Sudan (hereinafter referred to as the “Parties”), having met in Asmara, Eritrea, under the auspices of the Government of the State of Eritrea, as part of their effort to reach a just and lasting settlement to the conflict in Eastern Sudan;

AFFIRMING the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Sudan;

RECOGNIZING that political, social, and economic marginalization constitutes the core problem in Eastern Sudan;

CONSCIOUS of the urgent need for reaching a comprehensive agreement that could address the root causes of the conflict and bring about a just and lasting peace in Eastern Sudan;

CONVINCED that this Agreement provides a sound basis for resolving the conflict;

AWARE that the signing of this Agreement represents a significant step towards a just, peaceful and lasting settlement to the conflict in Eastern Sudan;

NOW THERFORE, THE PARTIES AGREE, upon signing this Agreement, on the following:

(1) To fully and effectively implement this Agreement in all of its six parts:

Political Issues;

Economic, Social and Cultural Issues;

Comprehensive Ceasefire and Security Arrangements, Consultative Conference on Eastern Sudan Peace Agreement;

Implementation Modalities and Timeline and General Provisions;

(2) That the following documents shall form part of the Agreement (as Annexes), and shall from this point forward be implemented by the Parties in accordance with the relevant provisions in the Chapters of this Agreement:

(a) Declaration of Principles for the Resolution of the Conflict in Eastern Sudan, of the 19th of June 2006;

(b) Framework for a five-year Reconstruction and Development Program for Eastern Sudan ;

(d)Agreement for implementing the provisions of the Agreement on Providing a Conducive Atmosphere for Peace, of the 30th June 2006;

(e) Tripoli Agreement of 14th June 2000, signed by the GoS and the Sudan and the Free Lions Organization;

(f) Implementation agreement for the provisions the Tripoli Agreement of 25th December 2005.

(3) The agreed Arabic and English texts of the Agreement shall both be official and authentic.

However, in the event of dispute regarding any provision of the text, the Arabic text shall be authoritative as Arabic was the language of the peace negotiations.

(4) This Agreement shall be referred to as the “Eastern Sudan Peace Agreement” (ESPA)

CHAPTER ONE

POLITICAL ISSUES:

GOVERNANCE AND POWER

GENERAL AND FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES FOR RESOLVING POLITICAL ISSUES ARTICLE 1

The Parties agreed on the following fundamental principles:-

The Republic of the Sudan is a united, independent, and sovereign state.

Sovereignty is vested in the people and shall be exercised by the State in accordance with the National Interim Constitution into which this Agreement shall be incorporated.

Sudan is a multi-cultural, multi-religious, multi-lingual and multi-racial nation.

Recognition and respect of this diversity is an important foundation of national cohesion.

Citizenship shall be the basis for civil and political rights and obligations.

The political system in the Sudan shall ensure the respect, protection and promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all citizens;

good governance, political pluralism, and peaceful transition of power through fair, free and observed elections;

and stability and sustainable development.

A federal system of government, with an effective devolution of powers and a clear distribution of responsibilities between the centre and other levels of government, including local administration, is essential to ensure fair and equitable participation of the citizens of the Sudan in general and the people of Eastern Sudan in particular.

The National Civil Service, the National Armed Forces, the Police, the Security and Intelligence Services shall reflect at all levels a fair and equitable representation of all citizens, including those from Eastern Sudan.

Women shall be fairly represented in all government institutions at all levels and their equal and effective participation ensured.

PRINCIPLES OF ADMINISTRATION AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS ARTICLE 2

THE FEDERAL SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

The Republic of the Sudan has a federal system of government in which power shall be effectively devolved.

Responsibilities shall be distributed between the national and other levels of government in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.

ARTICLE 3

LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT AND THEIR COMPETENCIES

Without prejudice to the status of Southern Sudan, there are the following levels of government in the Sudan:-

(a) The national level of government which shall exercise authority with the view of protecting the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sudan and promoting the welfare of its people.

(b) The State level of Government which shall exercise authority at the state level throughout the Sudan and render public services through the level closest to the people.

(c) Local level of government, which is essential to fulfill the commitment to vest sovereignty in the people, bring power to the grassroots, ensure effective participation of citizens, promote development as close to the population as possible, and make the management of public affairs more cost effective.

ARTICLE 4 INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS

The relationship among the different levels of government shall be on the basis of non-interference, cooperation, and recognition of the responsibilities of each other, so as to ensure national unity and achieve better quality of life for citizens.

ARTICLE 5

THE ADMINISTRATION OF EASTERN SUDAN

Exercising their rights as set out in the INC, the three states of the Eastern Sudan shall set up an Eastern Sudan States’ Coordinating Council to enhance coordination and cooperation among them.

(a) The Council shall be composed of 15 members as follows:-

Governor of Kassala State

Governor of Red Sea State

Governor of Gadaref State

Speaker of the Assembly of Kassala State

Speaker of the Assembly of Red Sea

State

Speaker of the Assembly of Gadarf State

Three nominees of Eastern Front

Six other members selected by the above

nine (so as to include other political parties)

(b) The chair of the Council shall rotate among the three governors.

(c) The Council shall perform its duties without prejudice to the constitutional powers and functions of the three states.

Without prejudice to the status of Southern Sudan as enshrined in the INC, the Parties agree that the GoS shall convene, by the end of 2007, a nationwide conference to revisit the administrative structure of the country.

Representatives of the executive and legislative branches of the National Government, representatives of the executive and legislative branches of the States, representatives of political parties, civil society groups and relevant experts shall participate in the nationwide conference;

The GoS shall accept and implement the recommendations of the conference.

ARTICLE 6

HUMAN RIGHTS AND FUNDAMENTAL FREEDOMS

The Parties reaffirm their commitment to respect and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms as detailed in the INC, and in international human rights covenants ratified by the Government of Sudan.

EFFECTIVE PARTICIPATION OF THE PEOPLE OF EASTERN SUDAN IN ALL INSTITUTIONS AND AT ALL LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT

ARTICLE 7

GUIDELINES FOR EFFECTIVE PARTICIPATION OF THE PEOPLE OF EASTERN SUDAN

The Parties commit themselves to ensure fair and effective participation of the people of Eastern Sudan at national, state, local, and national capital levels;

and at all institutions including the Presidency, the executive, legislative, judiciary, armed forces, security services, civil service, national academic institutions and commissions.

Relevant precedents, population size, level of marginalization, principles of affirmative action, shall be used in determining the representation of the people of Eastern Sudan.

To ensure that people of Eastern Sudan participate fully in the upcoming election;

representation for Eastern Sudanese shall be spread across the board in the political sphere.

The criteria and modalities for the exercise of power after the elections shall be determined by the result of the elections and in accordance with the provisions of the INC.

In ensuring the effective participation of Eastern Sudanese, the parties shall be guided by the principles of good faith, transparency and accountability.

Special measures shall be taken to ensure the participation of women in all institutions at all levels of government.

The Presidency

THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT ARTICLE 8

THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE

20. Upon the signing of this Agreement, the President shall appoint an Assistant to the President from a list of nominees provided by the Eastern Front.

21. The Assistant shall be a member of, inter alia, the National Council of Ministers, the National Security Council and the National Planning Council and shall participate in their deliberations and decision-making.

In addition, the Assistant shall:

(a) Undertake all national tasks entrusted to him/her by the President.

(b)Serve as Deputy-Chair of the Joint Implementation Committee of this Agreement which will be chaired by the Vice-President.

22. In addition to the Assistant, the President shall also appoint from a list of nominees provided by the Eastern Front, one advisor to the President.

The Council of Ministers

23. Prior to the elections, and with a view to reflecting the need for unity and inclusiveness, the GoS shall ensure effective representation of the people Eastern Sudan, including the Eastern Sudan Front, as follows:

(a) The two posts of Cabinet Minister and one post of State Minister currently held by Eastern Sudanese shall continue to be held by Eastern Sudanese.

(b) One additional post of State Minister shall be allocated to nominees of the Eastern Sudan Front.

ARTICLE 9

THE NATIONAL LEGISLATURE

The National Assembly

24. Prior to the elections and with a view to reflecting the need for unity and inclusiveness the GoS shall ensure the representation of Eastern Sudanese in the National Assembly, including the Eastern Front.

In this regard, not less than eight seats shall be allocated to nominees of the Eastern Sudan Front.

It is highly recommended that some of the nominees be women.

ARTICLE 10

THE NATIONAL JUDICIARY ORGANS

Eastern Sudanese shall be adequately represented in the Constitutional Court, the National Supreme Court and other National Courts, as well as in the National Judicial Service Commission.

ARTICLE 11

THE NATIONAL CIVIL SERVICE

The Parties agree that the National Civil Service (NCS), including the senior and middle levels, shall be representative of the people of Sudan.

The Eastern Front shall be fairly represented in the National Civil Service Commission, which, among other things, is responsible to redress existing imbalances.

A Panel of Experts that shall be established under the National Civil Service Commission shall determine the representation of people of Eastern Sudan in the NCS across all tiers and all levels of government.

The Eastern Front shall nominate competent and qualified Eastern Sudanese to serve in the Panel:

(a) The Panel shall identify any area of imbalances that have undermined the representation of Eastern Sudanese in the NCS and make practical recommendations to redress such imbalances and discrepancies.

(b) To determine the issue of imbalances and recommend appropriate measures, the Panel shall be guided by the criteria as per Article 7.

(c) The Panel shall complete its work and submit its Report to NCSC not later than six months after the signing of this Agreement;

following which the GoS shall take remedial actions.

While waiting for the outcome of the determination by the Panel, the GoS shall take measures to ensure the participation of Eastern Sudanese especially at the middle and upper levels of the NCS, including but not limited to Under-Secretaries, Ambassadors, Board Members and Chairpersons of parastatals, so as to address the concerns that Eastern Sudanese are under-represented at some levels.

Taking into account the need for the Front to be represented within the NCS, some of these positions shall be reserved for nominees of the Eastern Sudan Front.

ARTICLE 12

OTHER NATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND COMMISSIONS

Eastern Sudanese, including the Eastern Sudan Front, shall be adequately represented in all institutions and Commissions provided for in the Constitution, the law and this Agreement, taking into account the requirements of qualification and competence, including in particular the National Constitutional Review Commission, National Elections Commission, National Civil Service Commission Human Rights Commission Population Census Council, Public Grievances Chamber, and Land Commission.

ARTICLE 13 EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

31.The GoS shall give priority to promote primary, intermediary and secondary, as well as, vocational education in Eastern Sudan, with the aim of bringing Eastern Sudan to parity in the national level of educational enrollment and achievement.

32.Eastern Sudanese shall be fairly represented in the Management and Governing Councils of Public Universities and other educational institutions of higher learning in all parts of Sudan, taking into account the requirements of qualification and competence.

The use of local languages shall be encouraged at the primarily level and the media to promote literacy and education in Eastern Sudan.

The GoS shall invest in boarding schools to foster the education of children from nomadic families.

ARTICLE 14

THE NATIONAL CAPITAL

The National Capital, Khartoum, shall be a symbol of national unity and reflect the diversity of the Sudan.

The GoS shall ensure adequate representation of all, particularly Eastern Front, in the Administration of the National Capital.

Pending the state Elections, one position of advisor in the Executive of the Khartoum State Government shall be filled by a nominee of the Eastern Front.

STATE GOVERNMENT

ARTICLE 15 INSTITUTIONS AT THE STATE LEVEL

The institutions at the State level are:-

(a) The Executive, which shall consist of the Governor and the Council of Ministers.

(b) State Legislature.

ARTICLE 16

THE STATE EXECUTIVE

Eastern Sudan Front shall nominate Deputy-Governors for Kassala and Gadaref States.

39. One Ministerial position in Red Sea State and one Advisor in each of the three states of Eastern Sudan shall be allocated to nominees of the Eastern Front.

ARTICLE 17

THE STATE LEGISLATURE

40. Ten seats in the legislatures of each of the three Eastern Sudan states shall be allocated to nominees of the Eastern Sudan Front.

The Chairmanship of one of the committees in each of the legislatures of the three States of Eastern Sudan shall be assumed by a representative of the Eastern Sudan Front.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ARTICLE 18

The Eastern Sudan Front nominates three of the administrators (Mutamedin) in each of the three states of Eastern Sudan.

In Kassala State two will be Mutamedin Mehalyyat and one Mutamed Re’asi ;

in Gadaref State one will be Mutamed Mehalyya and two will be Mutemedin Re’asi;

and in the Red Sea State two will be Mutemedin Mehalyyat and one will be Mutemed Re’asi.

Five of the members of the assembly of each local government (Meahalya) shall be nominees of the Eastern Sudan Front.

The Parties agree that as long as the total number of Eastern Front nominees in the assemblies of the local governments is maintained there can be variance in the number of Eastern Front nominees in each local government (Meahalya).

CHAPTER TWO

THE ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ISSUES ARTICLE 19

GENERAL PRINCIPLES FOR RESOLVING ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND

CULTURAL ISSUES

The Parties agree on the following fundamental principles:

The wealth of Sudan shall be defined to include natural and human resources, historical and cultural heritage, and financial assets, including credit and public borrowing and international assistance and grants.

It encompasses all the means, institutions, policies, and opportunities that contribute to the generation and distribution of wealth.

The overarching aims of economic development in Sudan shall be poverty eradication, guaranteeing equitable distribution of wealth, ensuring quality of life, dignity and good living conditions of all citizens.

The State shall develop and manage the national economy with the aim of ensuring economic development, realization of self-reliance, encouraging free market, and prohibition of market monopoly.

It shall foster citizen participation in economic and social policy formulation and execution.

The State shall develop policies and strategies to ensure social justice among all the people of Sudan.

The languages, cultures and beliefs of the people of Sudan are the sources of moral strength and inspiration, and thus, shall be respected, promoted and protected, including, through education and media.

The State shall protect and promote Sudan’s cultural and historical heritage from destruction, desecration, unlawful removal or illegal export.

The people of Sudan, including the people of Eastern Sudan, shall have the right to a clean and diverse environment.

The State shall not pursue any policy or take or permit any action, which may adversely affect the existence of any species of animal or vegetative life, their natural or adopted habitat.

Best known practices in efficient utilization of natural resources and environmental management shall be adopted.

Education is a right for every citizen.

The State shall ensure free and compulsory education at the primary level and work to eradicate illiteracy.

The State shall promote public health and guarantee equal access and free primary health care to all citizens.

Every citizen shall have the right to acquire or own property as regulated by law.

No private property may be expropriated except by law for the public interest and is entitled for prompt and fair compensation.

Recognizing the cumulative effect of underdevelopment and prolonged deprivation in Eastern Sudan, the state shall undertake effective and prompt measures of affirmative action and pursue policies of sustained economic and social development.

A special fund for reconstruction and development of Eastern Sudan shall be established under this Agreement.

FISCAL FEDERALISM AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS ARTICLE 20

Resources and the common wealth of Sudan shall be equitably shared to enable all levels of government to discharge their constitutional and legal obligations and duties to the people of Sudan.

The sharing and the allocation of the wealth of Sudan shall be based on the premise that all parts of Sudan are entitled to development and that war- affected areas should be beneficiaries of affirmative action.

The expenditure function should be assigned to that level of government whose jurisdiction most closely reflects the geographical area served by that function.

The respective types of income, revenue taxes and other sources of wealth to which the various levels of government are entitled shall be carried as setout in the Interim National Constitution (INC).

No level of government shall withhold an allocation or financial transfer due to any other level of government.

All the revenues and expenditures of the government shall be on-budget operations and made public.

All revenues collected nationally for or by the National Government shall be pooled in the National Revenue Fund.

63. The Fiscal and Financial Allocation and Monitoring Commission (FFAMC) shall ensure appropriate utilization and sharing of financial resources both vertically and horizontally;

as well as transparency and fairness in the allocation of funds to all states.

DEVELOPMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES ARTICLE 21

Land Usage and Ownership

The regulation of land tenure, usage, and exercise of rights in land is to be a concurrent competence at the appropriate level of government.

Rights in lands owned by the Government of Sudan shall be exercised through the appropriate or designated level of government.

All levels of government shall institute a process to progressively develop and amend the relevant laws to incorporate customary laws and practices, local heritage and international trends and practices.

Land management structures and institutions shall be developed and legally supported to promote sustainable development and protect the environment.

The GoS shall ensure that all citizens affected by the development of land and/or national resources are consulted.

Persons whose property or livelihood is adversely affected by development of land and/or national resources have a right to adequate compensation.

All persons arbitrarily or unlawfully deprived of their rights to land shall have those rights restored to them.

Coastal Area and Marine Resources

70.All levels of government shall ensure the sustainable and integrated development of the nation’s historically and economically significant coastal area and its rich fish and marine resources.

All levels of government shall ensure that the people of Eastern Sudan are provided opportunities in, and benefit from, the development of the nation’s coastal area;

and its fish and marine resources.

Port Sudan, the nation’s main seaport, is a national port that is administered nationally.

73.The administration of Sea Ports Corporation shall discharge its responsibilities to contribute to the development of Eastern Sudan and the improvement of the livelihood of the people.

ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL POLICIES FOR RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF EASTERN SUDAN

ARTICLE 22 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

Sustained economic, social and cultural development is key to the undoing of the longstanding marginalization of Eastern Sudan.

The following shall be the fundamental objectives of development in Eastern Sudan:

(a) Rehabilitation of war-affected areas;

(b) Rehabilitation of social services including health, education and water;

(d) Human and institutional capacity building;

(e) Eradication of poverty;

(f) Rehabilitation and development of agriculture, industry, tourism, fisheries and other priority sectors;

(g) Encouraging investment and job creation;

(h) Protecting and enhancing the fragile environment;

(i) Protectingandpromotinghistoricalandculturalheritages;

(j) Ensuring the return and the rehabilitation of refugees and internally displaced people;

(k) Ensuring that all the development programs address the specific needs of women;

76.The Parties commit themselves to implement the Eastern Sudan Reconstruction and Development Plan as detailed in Annex B below.

EASTERN SUDAN RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT FUND ARTICLE 23

The Parties agree, immediately following the signing of this Agreement, to establish the Eastern Sudan Reconstruction and Development Fund.

The Eastern Sudan Reconstruction and Development Fund shall be formally established by a Presidential Decree.

The Eastern Sudan Reconstruction and Development Fund shall serve as a principal organ in the planning, monitoring and follow up of the reconstruction and development program.

The program does not incorporate national development projects that are undertaken by the national government in Eastern Sudan.

The Parties agree that, in addition to the share of the Eastern Sudan in the FFAMC transfers, the national government shall allocate an amount equivalent to USD 100 million as seed money for ESRDF in 2007;

and an amount of not less than USD 125 million per annum for the years 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011.

81.The Fund shall be administrated in a professional, accountable and transparent method to ensure the implementation of the programs.

82. The governance structure of the ESRDF shall be as follows:-

(a) The ESRDF shall have a Board chaired by the Minister of Finance and National Economy and shall include:

The Governor of Kassala State

The Governor of Red Sea State

The Governor of Gadarf State

The Finance Ministers of the three states

Three nominees of the Eastern Sudan Front

Two persons appointed by the President of the Republic

(b) The ESRDF shall be run by a professional manager appointed by the President of the Republic from a list of nominees presented by the board and a management team under him/her composed of qualified and experienced people;

83. The ESRDF shall be set up and start operating no later than 90 days after the signing of this Agreement.

CHAPTER THREE

COMPREHENSIVE CEASEFIRE AND FINAL SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS

ARTICLE 24

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

Cognizant of the debilitating effects of armed conflict, and appreciating the need for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement in Eastern Sudan, the Parties hereby:

84.Reaffirm their commitment to implement all Agreements signed.

In particular, the Declaration of Principles for Resolution of the Conflict in Eastern Sudan and Agreement on Providing a Conducive Atmosphere for Peace of 19th June 2006;

and Agreement for implementing the provisions of the Agreement on Providing a Conducive Atmosphere for Peace, signed 30th June 2006.

85.Affirm that lasting peace in Eastern Sudan shall be achieved and consolidated through, among other things, a comprehensive ceasefire agreement and final security arrangements that addresses the root causes and various aspects of the armed conflict.

Affirm that respect for the constitution, rule of law, good governance, fundamental human rights and the provision a decent standard of living for citizens of Eastern Sudan are detrimental for security and

Affirm that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and all other regular forces are national, professional, non-partisan in character and responsible for defending the constitutional order and serving federal rule and the popular will.

And, endeavors to preserve the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Nation.

Undertake to ensure that no militia forces or other armed groups exist in Eastern Sudan apart from SAF.

Undertake that all forces under their command at all levels will respect, implement and protect this Agreement.

COMPREHENSIVE CEASEFIRE AGREEMENT ARTICLE 25

90. The Parties agreed on acomprehensive and permanent ceasefire.

91. In accordance with CCA, the Parties shall scrupulously refrain from the following activities:-

(a) All attacks against members and locations of the other Party, and seizure of property or materials belonging to the other Party;

(b) Expositing civilians to any form of violence, harassment, intimidation, and forced displacement;

(d) Support or provide sanctuary to any armed groups opposed to this Agreement ;

(e) All hostile propaganda;

92. The Parties commit themselves to respect and safeguard the CCA and resolve peacefully any problem that might arise during implementation.

93. The Parties commit themselves to create a conducive atmosphere that would enable IDPs and refugees to return voluntarily to their areas of origin.

94. ARTICLE 26 MONITORING AND STRENGTHENING

To implement the ceasefire as detailed in Appendix A the Parties agree to establish a High Joint Military Committee.

95. The HJMC shall be composed of:-

a. Three representatives of the GoS;

Three representatives of the Eastern Sudan Front;

One representative of the Government of the State of Eritrea ;

96. The HJMC shall have the following responsibilities:

(a) Monitoring the CCA until the completion of integration of the Eastern Sudan Front forces into the SAF and other regular forces;

(b) Assist in resolving any dispute that might arise during implementation of the Agreement;

The representative of the Government of Eritrea shall chair the HJMC.

The HJMC shall establish sub-committees to effectively discharge its responsibilities.

“Appendix A” details the implementation modalities and timelines for the formation and activities of the Committees.

The Committees shall cease to exist with the completion of the integration process as detailed in “Appendix A”.

FINAL SECURITY ARRANGEMENT ARTICLE 27

INTEGRATION OF EASTERN SUDAN FRONT COMBATANTS INTO THE SAF AND OTHER REGULAR FORCES

Principles

101. The Parties agreed to integrate the willing and qualified combatants of the Front into the Sudanese armed forces, and other regular forces.

102. The integration of Eastern Sudan Front combatants shall be subject to reasonable and fair eligibility criteria.

The GOS shall make positions available to Eastern Sudan combatants based on its rank structure.

The GoS shall arrange for combatants support and training, including accelerated training where necessary, to ensure that they meet the requirements of their rank, functions and potential promotion.

The Parties agree that following their integration, former combatants shall remain in the armed forces and other regular forces for a period not less than two years according the rules of the institutions;

and, not be released from government service except for reasons of fitness or by a rule of a court.

Joint Committee for Integration (JCI)

To implement the integration process as detailed in “Appendix A” the Parties agreed to establish a Joint Committee for Integration shall be established.

The Joint Committee for Integration shall be composed of the following:- (a) Five representative of the GoS

(b) Five representatives of the Eastern Sudan Front

The Joint Committee for Integration shall have the following responsibilities:-

(a) Categorization of Eastern Sudan Front forces and identification of those willing and are qualified to join the SAF and other regular forces;

(b) Identification of the ranks for integrated combatants in SAF, and other regular forces based on the principle of affirmative action and the rank structure of the relevant institutions;

An officer from SAF shall chair the JCI.

The JCI shall establish sub-committees to effectively discharge its responsibilities.

“Appendix A” details the implementation modalities and timelines for the formation and activities of the Committee.

The Committee shall cease to exist with the completion of the integration process as detailed in “Appendix A”.

The integration of Eastern Sudan Front combatants into SAF and other regular forces shall be carried out as detailed in “Appendix A”.

The GoS shall provide financial and other resources necessary for the integration process.

The Integration System

All Eastern Sudan Front combatants shall be assembled in camps as detailed in “Appendix A”.

Registration, screening and categorization of Eastern Sudan Front forces by the Joint Committee for Integration.

Disarmament and demobilization of those combatants who are not willing and/or those who do not meet the integration criteria.

Training will be provided for Eastern Sudan Front combatants who join SAF and other regular forces.

Organize training programs for Eastern Sudan Front officers integrated into the SAF and other regular forces.

Following training with SAF units, former combatants shall be stationed in Eastern Sudan, and will not be redeployed to other areas for a period of five years except if the security and sovereignty of the Sudan are threatened.

Former combatants shall comprise no less than 33% of their newly integrated SAF units for a minimum duration of two years.

ARTICLE 28

SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC REINTEGRATION OF FORMER COMBATANTS

122. The GoS shall be responsible for ensure that former combatants returning to civilian life or do not meet the eligibility criteria for SAF and other regular forces, are properly supported through social and economic reintegration programs.

Reintegration efforts shall be designed to be sustainable over the long- term and include follow-up, monitoring and continuing support measures as needed.

The GoS shall provide adequate financial and logistical support to reintegrate former combatants.

The GoS shall take necessary measures to address the issue of those who are released from service or retired for reasons related to the conflict in Eastern Sudan;

and, will undertake returning all confiscated property according to the law.

The GoS shall take necessary measures to address the issue of those whose pension payments were frozen are a result the conflict in Eastern Sudan.

ARTICLE 29

EFFECTIVE PARTICIPATION OF EASTERN SUDANESE IN SAF AND OTHER REGULAR FORCES

The Parties affirm that the armed forces and other regular forces shall reflect at all levels a fair and equitable national representation.

Eligibility for joining these forces is grunted to all Sudanese provided they meet the criteria of the relevant institutions.

The Parties recognize that economic, social and educational conditions weakened the effective representation of Eastern Sudanese in the regular forces.

The Parties agree on the need for affirmative action to ensure effective participation of Eastern Sudanese in SAF and its institutions.

The GoS is committed to provide opportunities and take practical steps to increase the intake of Eastern Sudanese in the regular forces, its institutions, colleges and academies.

In this regard the GoS shall ensure a fair intake of Eastern Sudanese in the army and police academies.

To increase the participation of Eastern Sudanese in the armed forces and other regular forces, the Parties agreed to encourage conscription in all institutions of SAF and other regular forces.

IMPLEMENTATION AND LIFTING EMERGENCY ARTICLE 30

The GoS shall take appropriate measures to lift the state of emergency in Eastern Sudan within a week following the signing of this Agreement.

Release of prisoners and detainees associated to the conflict in Eastern Sudan will take place a week following the signing of this agreement.

Following the assembly of Eastern Sudan Front forces, regular Sudanese police forces and civil administration shall be deployed in all areas previously controlled by the Front, to provide security and service for citizens and ensure a smooth transition.

THE TRIPOLI AGREEMENT ARTICLE 31

The Parties commit themselves to continue the implementation of the Tripoli Agreement signed on 14 June 2000;

and its implementation Agreement signed on 14 December 2005.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CEASEFIRE AGREEMENT ARTICLE 32

The ceasefire shall come into force 72 hours following the signing of this Agreement.

The CFA and FSA shall be carried as set out in the implementation modalities detailed in “Appendix A”.

CHAPTER FOUR

CONSULTATIVE CONFERENCE ON EASTERN SUDAN PEACE AGREEMENT

ARTICLE 33

Pursuant to the Declaration of Principles of 19 June 2006 and following up on the consultative meetings that were held by the Eastern Sudan Front on 2-5 July 2006 in Tesseney and by the GoS on 13 July 2006 in Khartoum, the Parties shall jointly convene a Consultative Conference on the Eastern Sudan Peace Agreement ( CCESPA).

The CC ESPA shall have the following aims:

Publicizing and mobilizing support for the ESPA;

Building up momentum and providing a conducive atmosphere for the timely and effective implementation of the ESPA

Providing a forum for all stakeholders to present their observations and recommendations to the national and Eastern Sudan authorities;

139. The selected by the Parties.

CC ESPA shall be chaired by a prominent Sudanese personality

All the stakeholders, including community and traditional leaders, political parties, civil society organizations, trade unions, professionals, religious leaders, business leaders, and members of the diaspora shall participate in the CC ESPA.

There shall be adequate and effective representation of women and youth.

The CC ESPA shall be convened within thirty (30) days of the signing of this Agreement in one of the three States of Eastern Sudan.

The Parties shall establish a joint preparatory committee for the CC ESPA within seven (7) days of the signing of this Agreement.

The joint preparatory committee shall:

Decide the number of delegates and observers to the CC ESPA;

Establish a secretariat for the CC ESPA;

Organize logistics for the CC ESPA;

Disseminate widely information about the CC ESPA;

144. The outcome of the CC ESPA shall be presented to the relevant national and Eastern Sudan authorities.

CHAPTER FIVE IMPLEMENTATION MODALITIES AND TIMELINE ARTICLE 34

Implementation Modalities

The Parties commit themselves to implement all the provisions of this Agreement faithfully in accordance with the timeframe provided for in “Appendix A”.

The Parties agree to establish a Joint Implementation Committee composed of representatives of the GoS and the Eastern Sudan Front to monitor the implementation of this Agreement.

(a) The Joint Implementation Committee shall be composed of five representatives for the GoS and five representatives for the Eastern Front.

(b) The Vice-President of the Republic shall be the chairperson and the Assistant to the President from Eastern Sudan shall be the vice chair.

(d) The Joint Implementation Committee shall be established within thirty (30) days of signing this Agreement.

CHAPTER SIX GENERAL PROVISIONS ARTICLE 35

This Agreement shall be incorporated into the INC.

This Agreement can not be amended save with the consent of the Parties.

The Parties agree to settle any disagreement or dispute arising from this Agreement by peaceful means.

The Parties further agree that in the event of a dispute concerning the interpretation or application of this Agreement, they shall refer the constitutional issues to the Constitutional Court and other matters to a tripartite committee composed of representatives of GoS, the Eastern Front and the GoE. The tripartite committee shall be chaired by the representative of GoE.

This Agreement shall enter into force upon its signing by the Parties.

Accordingly, the Parties shall take immediate steps to implement their obligations hereunder, including appropriate steps to give legal effect to the arrangements agreed herein.

The Parties commit themselves to ensure that all of the institutions, bodies, commissions, committees and other entities under their control, including their members, shall observe the terms of this Agreement.

The Government of the State of Eritrea shall register this Agreement with Secretary-General of United Nations.

[SUMMARY] Contains Implementation Table and Timeline.

IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE FOR CONSULTATIVE CONFERENCE ON THE ESPA

Appendix C

In the Name of Allah the Most Merciful and the Most Passionate

Declaration of Principles for the Resolution of the Conflict in Eastern Sudan Preamble

We the Government of Sudan (GOS) and the Eastern Front (EF), henceforth referred to as the parties, meeting in Asmara, Eritrea, under the auspices of the Government of the State of Eritrea and on the basis of the agreement on procedural issues that we signed on May 25, 2006;

Reaffirming our commitment to the unity, sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Sudan;

Convinced that Sudan can prosper and flourish in peace only when it ensures equitable participation and development of its people throughout the country;

Determined to address the root causes of the conflict in Eastern Sudan, ensure stability and security and find a lasting peaceful settlement that benefits the people of Eastern Sudan and the whole country;

Committing ourselves to respect the integrity of the talks and the mediation and to negotiate in good faith;

Taking into consideration what has followed from the Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 9 January 2005 as well as the particularities of Eastern Sudan;

Agree that the following principles shall form the basis of a just and lasting peaceful settlement of the conflict in Eastern Sudan

Unity with recognition of and respect for diversity, protection of the fundamental freedoms and rights of citizens, devolution of powers within a federal system, and equitable distribution of national wealth are essential foundations for a united, peaceful, just and prosperous Sudan.

Political, economic, social and cultural marginalization constitutes the core problem of Eastern Sudan.

Effective participation and representation in all government institutions and at various levels shall be ensured for the people of Eastern Sudan.

A fair share of national resources and affirmative action to address past inequalities as well as sustained social, economic and cultural development are key to a just and lasting settlement.

Security arrangements for the consolidation of peace shall be addressed as part of an overall agreement.

Rehabilitation of war-affected areas will be given priority and assistance provided to refugees and internally displaced people to return to their homes.

The Parties commit themselves to involve the people of Eastern Sudan from the beginning of the peace process;

and to convene an Eastern Sudan Consultative Conference to ensure support for, and active participation in the implementation of, a Comprehensive Agreement.

The parties undertake to immediately cease all military hostilities and to maintain a military stand-down during the negotiations on the basis of the "Agreement on Creating a Conducive Atmosphere For Peace" signed on 19 June 2006.

All Agreements reached by the parties shall be incorporated in the Interim National Constitution.

Asmara,

Appendix D

In the Name of Allah the Most Merciful and the Most Passionate

AGREEMENT TO CREATE A CONDUCIVE ATMOSPHERE FOR PEACE

We, the Government of Sudan and the Eastern Front, hereby referred to as the parties;

Confirming our commitment to arrive at a negotiated just political solution to the problem of Eastern Sudan;

Adhering to our commitment to immediately cease all military hostilities and to maintain a military stand-down in the Eastern Front during the negotiations;

Confirming our commitment to work towards creating a conducive atmosphere for peace;

Agree on the following:

1. Cease all attacks on the military personnel and positions and seizure of property and equipment of the other side.

2. Refrain from all acts of violence against civilians, as well as threats directed at them and their forceful displacement.

3. Cease all attacks on developmental, economic and social services infra-structure and institutions.

4. Refrain from supporting armed groups that are opposed to peace.

5. Cease all hostile propaganda and media campaigns.

6. Cooperate in observing and respecting the cessation of hostilities and work to contain and resolve problems that might occur.

7. Endeavor to create a conducive atmosphere that encourages the return of internally displaced people and refugees to their homes.

8. Establish a tri-partite committee, composed of representatives of the Government of Sudan, the Eastern Front and the Government of Eritrea to monitor this agreement and agree that the committee would meet immediately after the signing of this agreement.

The two parties commit to take further steps as conditions permit to build confidence between them and create a conducive atmosphere for the peace process.

These steps would include:-

(a) Lifting of the state of emergency in Eastern Sudan.

(b) Releasing all prisoners of war and all those detained because of their links to the problem of Eastern Sudan.

(c) Implementing the agreement between the Government of Sudan and the movement of the "Free Lions" signed in Tripoli on June 14, 2000, and its implementation protocol of December 24, 2005.

Asmara, June 19, 2006