An African Union summit began with controversy as Sudan insisted on assuming the chairmanship despite criticism of the ongoing violence in Darfur. Despite calls from rights organizations and Western governments to reject Sudan due to human rights abuses in Darfur, Sudan remained determined to take on the role. Sudanese Foreign Minister Lam Akol expressed confidence that AU leaders would not be swayed by external pressure and would uphold their decision to give Sudan the chairmanship, which was promised a year ago despite concerns over the violence in Darfur. Experts estimate that the conflict in Darfur has resulted in the deaths of 200,000 people and the displacement of 2.5 million. Critics argue that rather than decreasing, the violence in the last year has actually intensified, with government-supported Arab militias responsible for the deaths of thousands. Despite repeated requests, Bashir has refused to allow UN peacekeepers to be deployed in order to support the African Union military mission of 7,000 soldiers and monitors. During the summit, the AU's top diplomat, Alpha Oumar Konare, accused Sudan of targeting civilians in Darfur and urged the government to cease their attacks and work towards peace. Amnesty International warned that the AU would lose credibility if Bashir was appointed as chairman while human rights violations continued in Sudan's Western region. Chad has threatened to leave the African Union if Sudan's President Bashir becomes the chair, due to strained relations from the Darfur conflict. Egyptian Foreign Minister believes Sudan should get the chair unless the summit decides otherwise, but expects a struggle. Nigerian President believes finding a solution for the chairmanship will be easier this year compared to last year. Diplomats have not yet made a decision, but they are working to promote Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete as an alternative to Bashir. Western governments are advocating for Kikwete. British Africa minister David Triesman emphasized the importance of the African Union's success in international relations and diplomacy, urging them to carefully consider their decisions. A committee of seven "wise men", including Obasanjo, will be meeting on Monday to discuss the Sudan issue and will then present recommendations to the full summit, according to delegates. The meeting in Addis Ababa will also address other issues such as raising a peacekeeping force for Somalia, unrest in Guinea, climate change, and the AU military mission in Darfur. However, diplomats believe that the focus will mainly be on Sudan, as opposition to the country is growing among AU governments. One African delegate mentioned that it is difficult to expect a country dealing with internal conflict to address all the other issues on the continent, but the leaders are aware of this and are working towards finding a solution.