SUDAN: United Nations officials and aid agencies launched frantic negotiations with the Sudanese government last night after the heads of two Western relief operations were ordered out of the country. Following the talks, Sudan decided to postpone the expulsions decision, citing administrative difficulties and humanitarian grounds.
Save the Children and Oxfam were originally told yesterday that their country directors must leave Sudan within 48 hours.
The Khartoum government accused the two British agencies of interfering in political affairs and of offering tacit support to rebel groups in war-torn Darfur.
Save the Children and Oxfam run two of the biggest relief operations in Sudan. Oxfam has been working throughout north Sudan for more than 20 years and has 500 staff in the country.