Letter to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola.
It has been more than a month since journalist Muammar Ibrahim was abducted by the Rapid Support Forces. Press reports state that some Members of the European Parliament are raising concerns about European weapons ending up in the hands of the Rapid Support Forces via shipments by the United Arab Emirates. The UAE is the prime backer and weapons supplier of the Rapid Support Forces, who abducted Muammar Ibrahim after they captured the city of Al-Fashir, Darfur, Sudan in October 26th.
Press reports also state that negotiations between the European Union and the UAE over a trade deal are ongoing. We urge the EU to use this opportunity to engage with the UAE and make Muammar Ibrahim’s release a condition for the trade agreement. The UAE has considerable leverage and influence over the RSF and can persuade them to release Muammar Ibrahim with enough diplomatic efforts.
Muammar Ibrahim was one of the last journalists in the city of Al-Fashir before the city was captured by the RSF, who are committing a genocide in Darfur. RSF-affiliated politicians have blamed him and other journalists for causing the war in Sudan. Captivity by the RSF puts his life at risk and thus we are requesting his urgent release.
Your discussions with the UAE about Muammar Ibrahim will undoubtedly be effective in ensuring his release and we urge you to make contact on this matter as soon as possible.
We have also contacted the US Department of State about this matter.
We thank you for your efforts in advocating for the free press and journalists worldwide.
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