House Sudan Caucus Co-Chairs Mark CPA Anniversary

Sudan Caucus co-chairs Congressman Frank Wolf (R-VA) and Congressman Mike Capuano (D-MA) released a joint statement marking the fifth anniversary of the signing of the CPA, calling Sudan’s peace deal a “groundbreaking achievement” but saying much more has to be done now to ensure that Sudan’s fragile peace lasts, especially with two important events quickly approaching: national elections in April 2010 and the 2011 referendum on self-determination for South Sudan.

The Congressmen agree that the United States has demonstrated leadership in dealing with conflict in Sudan. However, they call for a clearer Sudan policy from President Obama’s Special Envoy to Sudan Scott Gration:

“No one doubts that Special Envoy Scott Gration is earnest in his determination to seek peace for all of Sudan; however, the new U.S. policy articulated in October 2009 remains vague due to a lack of specifics on benchmarks, accountability, and sanctions.”

Longtime Sudan watcher Congressman Frank Wolf (R-VA) is a leading voice in the House on human rights and serves as co-chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission.

Congressman Mike Capuano (D-MA) has consistently championed the cause of peace in Sudan and has also been as a guest contributor to this blog. He traveled to Sudan in 2006.

Here's the full statement.

• Sudan Now
• Sudan and South Sudan