AU inaugurates inquiry panel on allegations of sexual abuse in Darfur

April 16, 2006 (Sudan Tribune) — The African Union envoy to Sudan inaugurated the members of the investigation panel over the allegations of sexual abuses against the AU peacekeeping force in Sudan’s troubled Darfur region.

The Special Representative of the African Union Commission Chairperson in the Sudan, Amb. Baba Gana Kingibe today inaugurated the members of the Committee of Inquiry into allegations of sexual abuse levelled against members of the African Union Mission Forces in Darfur.

The British Television Channel 4 in March, 2006 in a broadcasted news report alleged incidences of sexual misconduct including rape and child abuse against the African Union Forces in Darfur.Baba Gana said in his speech before the inaugural meeting that the African Union Mission in the Sudan have been instructed to fully cooperate with the Inquiry.

He asked the inquiry panel to identify the potential responsible for the violations, and make recommendations on appropriate sanctions.Further, he urged the committee to “work quickly but with sensitivity and purpose to establish the required report”

The eight member Committee is headed by Ms. Winnie Byanyima as Chairperson.Byanyima is an internationally renowned Women’s rights activist who has worked as adviser and consultant to several UN and other international agencies and academic institutions. She is currently the Director, Women, Gender and Development in the Office of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission.

The other members are all experts in their own field and include representatives from the UN, the European Union, and the NGO Community.

The Committee which has wide ranging terms of reference is given four weeks to submit their report.

From: http://www.sudantribune.com/article_impr.php3?id_article=15092