The South Rises Again, err, I mean for the first time, actually

Now that Sudan has been split into two separate entities, the President of the new North, Bashir, wants sharia and friendly relations with the new South.  The South, well, they are not sure yet. 

Let the party begin!


From Deutsche Welle Jan 26

Sudan mulls Islamic law after southern secession

As referendum results make southern Sudan's independence from Khartoum nearly certain, northern Sudanese are unsure what is in store for their country. The president has promised to base the constitution on Sharia law.

Results from a week's worth of voting showed that more than 95 percent of people in Southern Sudan wanted to break away from the Khartoum government with more than 98 percent of votes counted. Official results are expected to be released at the end of January.

In his first public speech since the referendum, Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir said on Tuesday he would support the new Southern state.

"Secession has become a reality, but we will not be sad ... we will go to the South and celebrate with them," Bashir said. "We will support the new Southern state and will hold onto its stability because we are neighbors and will remain friends."

But for how long, Bashir?  Are we to see the Janjaweed on the horizion soon?

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