Peace and Security Council Report No 23

Recent weeks have witnessed an escalation of violence and tensions in the controversial Abyei region in Sudan. The fighting over Abyei undermines any prospect for the rise of South Sudan and its ultimate independence without involving military conflict with the North. These developments attest that a great deal of attention needs to be paid to the internal and regional dynamics of South Sudan as it continues its quest for independence. The Report analyses current developments in South Sudan in the light of anticipated independence.

In the most notable popular protests in sub-Saharan Africa, supporters of the opposition and people protesting price hikes have clashed with security forces in Uganda. A campaign named `Walk to Work` led by the opposition leader, Kizza Besigye, elicited a brutal police response. The article on Uganda examines the growing opposition against the government and proposes possible scenarios amidst ongoing dissent.

The political crisis that emanated from the unconstitutional change of government in Madagascar in 2009 is long overdue for a breakthrough in the quest for a solution. Key actors seem to have run short of ideas, or commitment, in their attempts to help the country return to constitutional order. The analysis proposes possible options by the AU PSC and other actors to end the stalemate in Madagascar.

In its efforts to throw light on various peace and security thematic issues, the Report has also covered the issue of Drug Trafficking in West Africa and the AU`s response to border disputes in Africa.  

Duke Kent-Brown (Editor)