Sudan Secedes

Southern Sudan voted overwhelmingly for separation from the north, with 98.83% of voters in favor of the split, according to results released on late Monday, February 07, 2011 by Ibrahim Khalil, Chairman Electoral Commission. Only 1.17%, equivalent to 44,888 votes, favoured unity of the two Sudans.
Sudanese president, Omar Hassan al-Bashir has said he respects the decision of the people of the new 54th state of Africa. This was contained in a Republican Decree read out by minister of presidency affairs Bakri Hassan Salih, according to official Sudan TV.
The White House has also promised to formally recognize South Sudan as a sovereign state in July.
As the journey to form a new state begins in 5 months time, few obstacles stand in the way, mainly the definition of the border, especially of the disputed oil rich Abyei region. Whether the resolution by the permanent court of arbitration in the Hague is enforced remains to be seen. Other concerns include citizenship. Resolving these issues will be a test on how the two countries move on the peace path.
The south Sudan capital, Juba, was in a celebratory mood as the results were released. Residents converged on a projector that had been set up to broadcast the announcement at the mausoleum of former leader John Garang.
Dr. John De Maboir Garang made history as pioneer of the southern rebellion and architect of peace, Dr. Salva Kiir is set to become an ionic figure as father of a newly independent south Sudan.
Cultural ties binding the two Sudans are too deeply rooted to be severed over night. How they maneuver this is a test of time that is more than the borderline of over 2,000 kilometres. Determination and ambition are the two ingredients flowing across.

Fact Page
South Sudan Coverage: 619,745 km2
Capital: Juba
Population: 7.5m – 9.7m
Currency: Sudanese pound
Official Languages: Arabic, English,
Time Zone: East Africa
Major Languages: Dinka, Nuer, Zande, Bari, Shilluk
Major Religions: Christianity, Islam, Animism
Some Exports: Oil, Cotton and Sesame
Life Expectancy at Birth: 42 Years
Government: President; Salva Kiir Mayardit
Vice-President; Riek Machar Teny