Damanga Calls for Immediate Release of Suleiman Jamous

August 8, 2007

The Damanga Coalition for Freedom and Democracy is very concerned with the current situation of Suleiman Jamous, the humanitarian coordinator for the Sudan Liberation Army (SLA). For the past year, Jamous has been forced by the Sudanese government to remain in a UN Hospital in Kordofan. His health is in critical condition and he is in need of immediate medical treatment for a stomach biopsy, which can not be performed in Kordofan. The UN attempted to send Jamous outside the country in hope of better medical treatment, but the Sudanese government threatened to arrest Jamous if he was relocated from the hospital.

Jamous is one of many rebel leaders who have played a significant role in unifying the difference factions in Darfur. As the humanitarian aid coordinator, he has facilitated the process of bring aid to refugees.

Additionally, Damanga is impressed by actress Mia Farrow's initiative to have Jamous released from the hospital. She understands that he can play an important role in the upcoming Darfur Peace Negotiations between rebel groups and the Sudanese government. Damanga finds Farrow to be one of America’s most politically powerful actresses in her efforts to raise awareness regarding the genocide in Darfur. Accordingly, she has been appointed UN ambassador for goodwill and visited Darfur and Chad many times.

The Damanga Coalition for Freedom and Democracy appeals to the whole International Community to put pressure on Al-bashir’s National Islamist Front (NIF) government in Darfur and force them to release Jamous immediately.