On behalf of the African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur, I wish the people and the Government of Sudan a peaceful and joyous Eid Al-Adha and Haj Mabroor to the lucky ones. As we commemorate this occasion, we should all remember the message of peace and sacrifice that this occasion symbolises and draw lessons from the story of Ibrahim and his son (Peace Be Upon Them).
The road to achieving peace is fraught with hurdles, hardships, tests and sacrifice. It is only when we have the goodwill and the resolve that we are able to achieve this condition, to which we all aspire; and which holds so many benefits for all.
The ritual of Haj, in its essence, is a quest for peace and redemption. Redemption from worldly desires and a renewal of our commitment to the Almighty to be fair and compassionate in our relationships with each other. It is also a unique lesson in the value of unity as you see millions congregating in the holy sites to know each other, trade and develop peaceful relationships.
While celebrating this year’s Eid, we remain hopeful for an inclusive national dialogue while the recent discussions with armed movements in Paris breathe, once more, fresh air in the quest for peace in Darfur, and indeed all of Sudan. The satisfactory progress of the on-going Darfur Internal Dialogue and Consultations is yet another positive step in the direction of peace stability and development of Darfur. We are optimistic that all these endeavours are steadily bringing us closer to realising sustainable peace, stability, democracy and development for Sudan and its great people.
On this day, we also remember our courageous peacekeepers, the men and women who sacrificed their lives for the people of Darfur. May the goodwill of this most holy occasion inspire us all to intensify our efforts in the pursuit for an all-inclusive, just and durable peace in Darfur and, indeed, all of the Sudan. May Allah accept our good deeds, forgive our transgressions and ease the pain of all suffering people throughout the world, Amen.
Eid Mubarak to all and Haj Mabrouk to those who are participating this year!
Abiodun Bashua Acting AU-UN Joint Special Representative
