Somoud coalition asks AU to postpone political consultations

September 20, 2025 (ADDIS ABABA) – A major Sudanese civilian coalition on Saturday asked the African Union to postpone political talks scheduled for October, citing the country’s dire humanitarian crisis and concerns that the process is not inclusive, a leader in the group told Sudan Tribune.

The AU-led consultations, set for Oct. 6-10, were intended to pave the way for a comprehensive national dialogue and a transition to civilian rule.

In a letter to the AU, the Civil Democratic Alliance of Revolutionary Forces “Somoud” argued that current conditions are unsuitable for a political process while fighting continues. The leader said the immediate priority must be a humanitarian truce and ceasefire.

He also said the selection of participants was unbalanced, favouring factions loyal to the government.

“The ‘Tasis’ alliance was not invited, and the meeting was flooded with representatives loyal to the Sudanese government,” the leader said, adding that of 50 invitations, only 10 went to the Somoud alliance.

This request comes as a separate diplomatic track, a ‘Quad’ initiative by the United States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE, gains momentum. The group has proposed a three-month humanitarian truce to precede a political process.

A U.S. presidential advisor recently held talks with the AU to coordinate on the Quad’s efforts. The four nations’ foreign ministers are expected to meet during the upcoming UN General Assembly session.