Sudan has released 57 members of the Darfur-based Justice and Equality Movement (JEM). The release follows the signing of a ceasefire between the rebels and the Sudanese government on Tuesday in Qatar. Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir says he is optimistic about these latest developments and that he believes the war in Darfur is over.

The ceasefire is the result of a framework agreement concluded in Chad on Saturday. Under the terms of the agreement, members of JEM will join the Sudanese government and its fighters will be integrated into the Sudanese army. A final accord is to be concluded next month.

JEM is the main rebel movement in Darfur. Smaller rebel groups have consistently refused to talk to the government.