‘Good progress’ in Sudan referendum

Organisers of southern Sudan’s referendum on independence report good progress, saying that after two days of voting, a fifth of registered electors have cast their ballots.

A turnout of 60 percent is required in the week-long poll for the result to be valid.

In the southern capital Juba, so many people have been queueing to vote that some gave up, vowing to come back later.

International observers are encouraged.

“There’s been no evidence of intimidation, there’s been no evidence of illegalities, there’s been no evidence of improprieties. It’s all been done in a completely admirable and perfect way as far as we can ascertain,” said former US President Jimmy Carter.

Elsewhere clashes were reported. Three dozen were said to have been killed near the north-south border in exchanges between tribes and Arab nomads.

Our correspondent in Juba, Mohamed Elhamy, said:
“For the second day voting is continuing calmly. For the second day there’s been a large turnout, and for the second day the south seems to be veering towards the option of separation.”

Independence would present stiff challenges for southern Sudan, but it is one many seem ready to face after decades of civil war.

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