Sudanese people are welcoming an agreed ceasefire between the Government and Darfur's most powerful rebel group, as a "good" omen ahead of the country's first democratic elections in 24 years.

Rebel group Justice and Equality Movement signed a framework agreement reached in the Chadian capital of N'Djamena. It not a final peace deal, but it will define terms for negotiations.

Sudanese president Omar al-Bashir says he will cancel death sentences handed out to rebel prisoners and free some immediately. More than 100 men were sentenced to death by hanging after being found guilty of taking part in a rebel attack on Khartoum two years ago. The agreement is hoped to "heal" the war in Darfur.

People on the streets take the news positively, saying they hoped it will bring a smooth upcoming election in April.

[Mohammad Siding, Resident]:
"I think the decision was the right thing to do, and it came at a good time. Furthermore, it will help a lot during the upcoming elections, and pave the way for the rebels to be involved in peace."

[Alteyeb Hamad, Resident]:
"It is a positive decision. It will push discussions and trust forward. It will also set the tone for smooth elections."

Khartoum agreed to a series of ceasefires during the seven-year conflict, but some have fallen apart days after their signing.

Rebel officials say that Saturday's deal will next week be formally ratified by Sudan's president and rebel leader Khalil Ibrahim in the Qatari capital of Doha.

Darfur's rebels took up arms against the Government in 2003, accusing Khartoum of leaving their region marginalized and underdeveloped.

The United Nations estimates that 300,000 people died in Darfur's crisis, but Sudan rejects that figure. The International Criminal Court in The Hague issued an arrest warrant against Bashir last year to face charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.