Human Rights Chief calls to swiftly form transitional government in Sudan
April 8, 2023 (KHARTOUM) – The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, expressed concern on Saturday about the current tense situation in Sudan and called on all sides to work together to restore a civilian-led government.
In a statement on Saturday, Türk urged the parties to put aside their differences and personal interests and focus on the common interests of the Sudanese people.
“As I had said during my visit to Sudan in November, the country is at a decisive juncture. Much work has been done and many positive steps taken towards the signature of a final agreement – all efforts must now go to get the political transition back on the right path,” the High Commissioner said.
On December 5 of last year, a Political Framework Agreement was signed between civilian leaders and the military as the first step towards a political agreement and the restoration of a civilian-led Government.
However, the signing of the final political agreement, which was expected to take place on April 1 and then postponed to April 6, remains pending due to disagreements over key security and military reforms between the army and the paramilitary forces. Also, political non-signatories refuse to join the process calling to give them more representation in the upcoming transitional government.
The High Commissioner urged all sides to work together to overcome obstacles to security sector reform and avoid any further delays in the signing of the political agreement.
He also stressed the importance of ensuring that the human rights commitments outlined in the Political Framework Agreement remain central to the final political agreement, particularly with regard to credible and inclusive transitional justice and accountability processes.
Türk called on non-signatories to the Political Framework Agreement to join the political process and stressed the need for a more inclusive process that addresses the concerns of all sectors of society.
He urged the authorities and all sides to take measures to de-escalate tensions and refrain from violence, while also emphasizing the importance of respecting the rights of the people to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
Türk expressed his admiration for the determination of the people of Sudan to stand up for human rights, accountability, and justice and urged the authorities to respond to demonstrations in line with human rights laws and standards.
(ST)