Hoping for the Worst

The current state of Darfur has sunken into such a quagmire that it often leaves one hoping for the worst. The Darfur Peace Agreement (DPA) was signed May 5th, 2006. At the time many thought it was a serious step in the direction of peace, but a closer look would have revealed it as an ill conceived plan forced through by powers who wanted a quick solution. Eight months later we are left with the broken pieces of a peace treaty that was doomed to failure. The rebel groups have splintered into a million fractions, each fighting for position and power amongst themselves. The GoS continues to use the DPA as a type of shield to defend itself from all international condemnation concerning Darfur. Throughout all of this people continue to die and more families are displaced into huge IDP camps.

Yet as bad as all of this sounds, it is just clam enough to prevent any real change. Tensions remain high throughout the region and conflicts erupt in various parts of Darfur, yet more and more they become the common place theme here in Sudan. With out a unified force the rebel groups have no chance of achieving any type of real victory. Each group simply tries to seize power in what ever small corner they can control. Mean while the GoS continues to prove its brilliance against international pressure. No UN troops are on the ground, the AU’s mandate remains weak and useless, and INGOs are hassled and expelled at will. Every month that the status quo remains the same is a month that those with blood on their hand have won.

All of this leads the individual to hope for the worse. At least if the fighting erupted on a large scale the world would be forced to do something. At least if the DPA officially fell apart it would pave the way for a lasting peace deal to be signed. At least there would be an end in sight…at least…

For now I hope for the best…I still believe in peace…I am still willing to look for some type of progress…but I’m getting tired…everyone is.