Sudan questions African Union role following joint statement with UAE
January 7, 2026 (PORT SUDAN) – The Sudanese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday questioned the African Union’s role in resolving continental conflicts following a meeting between AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and Emirati Minister of State Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan.
The two officials met Tuesday at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa and later issued a joint statement calling for a humanitarian truce in Sudan, a ceasefire, guaranteed aid access, accountability for violations, and the formation of a civilian government.
The Sudanese Foreign Ministry expressed regret over the statement, reminding the AU Commission that its joint declaration was made with a state it described as a supporter of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and a partner in “shedding the blood of the Sudanese people.”
The ministry noted that the statement, issued outside the framework of any official AU forum involving other AU members and alongside a non-member state, raises questions about the Commission’s role in resolving conflicts in line with the slogan “African solutions to African problems.”
Sudan has consistently maintained that it possesses evidence proving the UAE’s involvement in financing and providing weapons to the RSF. Abu Dhabi denies these accusations, despite investigative reports and findings from human rights organizations confirming such support.
In a press statement, the Foreign Ministry condemned the AU and the UAE’s call for an unconditional humanitarian truce. It argued this contradicts Sudan’s position on a ceasefire within the peace initiative endorsed by regional and international organizations, including the AU itself. The ministry stated that this development is surprising and calls into question the AU Commission’s true position on the Sudan peace initiative.
On December 30, 2025, the African Union welcomed a peace initiative presented by the Sudanese Prime Minister to the U.N. Security Council, viewing it as a solid foundation for sustainable peace.
Prime Minister Kamil Idris introduced that initiative on December 22, which stipulates the withdrawal of RSF forces from cities, their assembly in camps, and their disarmament. This would occur alongside the return of displaced persons and reconstruction, followed by a political dialogue on the future of governance.
The Foreign Ministry charged that the joint statement between the UAE and the AU Commission addressed Sudanese affairs in an unobjective manner, repeating a narrative that equates the Sudanese government with a “terrorist militia” already condemned by the international community.
The ministry affirmed that the Sudanese government remains ready to engage with any peace initiative provided it aligns with the legitimate aspirations of the people. It added that any initiative equating the government with the RSF militia would not be accepted by the Sudanese people or the government.
The Sudanese government is currently working on mechanisms to implement the peace initiative announced by Kamil Idris before the U.N. Security Council.