Burhan rejects avorted UN resolution, says Sudan will not accept external solutions

November 19, 2024 (PORT SUDAN) – General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairman of the Sovereign Council and Commander-in-Chief of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), rejected the Russia-vetoed UN Security Council resolution on Sudan, stating that it failed to address the country’s core concerns.

Speaking at the Economic Conference in Port Sudan, al-Burhan criticized the resolution for not acknowledging the role of foreign actors in supplying weapons to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Al-Burhan stressed that Sudan’s post-war relationships with international actors will be determined by their stance during the conflict. He accused the RSF of exploiting previous ceasefires negotiated in Jeddah to re-arm and intensify their siege of cities.

The army chief reiterated his commitment to finding a solution internally and rejecting external interference. He declared that victory against the RSF was imminent, and the war was turning to favour the SAF.

Al-Burhan outlined conditions for accepting a ceasefire, insisting on the complete withdrawal of RSF forces from all occupied areas and their assembly at designated cantonment sites. This withdrawal, he stated, is crucial to lift the siege of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, and ensure the free movement of civilians and aid.

“Sudan will not accept any ceasefire or cessation of hostilities that does not include the complete withdrawal of the RSF from all areas they have entered,” al-Burhan affirmed. He further emphasized that the RSF must gather in specified locations to facilitate the reopening of roads and humanitarian access.

The army chief’s strong statement comes in the wake of Russia’s veto of a UN Security Council resolution aimed at protecting civilians and ensuring accountability for human rights abuses in Sudan. Russia rejected the resolution drafted by Britain, arguing that it did not adequately address the complexities of the conflict.

Al-Burhan’s remarks underscore the Sudanese government’s determination to resolve the conflict on its own terms, signaling a continued rejection of international intervention and a focus on achieving a military victory against the RSF.