As Referendum Approaches, Kerry Plans Sudan Trip

Sen. John Kerry, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations committee, is traveling to Sudan as a key referendum on the country’s political future approaches.

The referendum will effectively decide whether the country separates, and many fear the vote could reignite tensions following a bloody civil war.

“Sudan is at a pivotal moment,” Kerry said in a statement. “The critical choice that leaders in both North and South face is between a future of peaceful coexistence or a return to chaos and war in a place tragically familiar with both.” 

Kerry adds that America must play a role in ensuring the referendum, which was part of an important peace agreement in the country, is conducted responsibly.