The United Nations Security Council on Tuesday extended the mandate of its Interim Security Force in Abyei (UNISFA) until 28 February 2015.
The Security Council said the two Sudans should address issues of mutual concern regarding the disputed Area area, in fulfilling their obligations under their 20 June 2011 agreement.
The Council repeated its demand that the two countries establish an Abyei Area administration, a legislative council, and a police service.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj yesterday, several Ngoka Dinka in Abyei voiced their support for the renewal of the UNISFA mandate. They said it was an expected decision but is very important in maintaining security.
However, they criticized the extension period is “too short,” and noted that Abyei has never witnessed any kind of stability despite deployment of UNISFA forces.
UNISFA said in a statement that it continues to provide “robust patrolling with the view to dominate the area of responsibility and offer protection to all people and their livestock within the Abyei Box.”