December 7, 2004 —  Today U.S. Representative Trent Franks applauded the Senate’s passage of S. 2781, also known as the Comprehensive Peace in Sudan Act.

“We cannot lose sight of the importance of doing everything we can, in every way we can, and at every opportunity on behalf of those who do not have a voice,” said Franks, an original co-sponsor of the companion House measure.  “In July we recognized that genocide is being committed in Sudan; we know it, and we cannot stand idly by and permit it.  I commend my colleagues for taking genocide seriously, and for showing that there are consequences for the annihilation of innocent human life.”

After a 30-day waiting period, S. 2781, as amended by the House on November 19th, imposes the punitive measures listed in the Sudan Peace Act and an asset freeze on senior Sudanese officials.  It also calls upon the President to impose a travel ban on senior Sudanese officials, including those responsible for planning and/or carrying out the genocide in Darfur.

To guarantee a wider international response to the genocide in Darfur, the legislation includes instructions for the United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations to urge the Security Council and member states to pursue accountability for those complicit in the genocide in Darfur, and to impose targeted sanctions (including the freezing of assets) on senior members of the Government of Sudan, and cease international importation of Sudanese oil.

The bill also provides humanitarian assistance to Darfur and eastern Chad.  This funding will support the African Union mission in Darfur, and assist to prepare the population for peace.  This will give material indication to Sudanese civilians that they can find meaning and purpose in rebuilding their country after decades of war.