Fanus is a political scientist and a member of Sudan's national unity government.

NPR: Darfur Casts Shadow Over Khartoum's Ambitions

Sudanese warplanes have struck targets in South Sudan's border state of Unity during the past week, including an attack on Mayom town, where the United Nations said eight civilians were killed and 22 injured.

CNN: South Sudan says it is withdrawing from disputed oil region

After a row over who should control the oil ministry, Sudan's president, Omar Bashir, announced a unity government with former rebels from the south as part of a peace accord reached earlier this year.

ECONOMIST: Another hurricane

The oilfield in Unity is run by the Greater Nile Petroleum Operating Company (GNPOC), of which 5% is owned by Sudan's state Sudapec, 25% by Canada's Talisman Energy Co TLM.

BBC: Sudanese rebels