United Nations, December 24: A UN official on Thursday voiced grave concern over alleged acts of sexual violence by the Sudanese security forces during Sunday's demonstrations in Khartoum and called for accountability for those responsible.
Pramila Patten, the UN secretary-general's special representative on sexual violence in conflict, was deeply concerned about "credible reports of serious human rights violations, including the use of rape and gang rape of women and girls to disperse protesters," said her office.
"I demand the immediate and complete cessation of all human rights violations and abuses including sexual violence. I call on the authorities to take effective measures to ensure ease of access to medical, legal and psychosocial support to the survivors, and put in place accountability mechanisms to prevent reoccurrence of such violence," she was quoted as saying. "The perpetrators of these human rights violations must be identified and prosecuted. I join the call of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for a prompt, independent and thorough investigation into the allegations of rape and sexual harassment."
Patten called on the international community, including members of the Security Council, to use their good offices with leaders of Sudan to demand an end to all forms of violence and intimidation against civilians, including sexual violence. With further protests planned, it is crucial that security forces act in full respect for international law and standards regulating the use of force, said her office.
Source: Xinhua