Mediators call for Sudanese ceasefire talks to resume
June 4, 2023 (KHARTOUM) – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America, mediators for the Sudan ceasefire process, have urged the Sudanese army (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to resume talks, emphasizing the implementation of a new ceasefire to prioritize the protection of civilians in Sudan.
On June 1, the facilitators temporarily suspended the talks between the Sudanese belligerents in response to severe violations of the short-term ceasefire agreement. Additionally, Washington imposed sanctions on companies affiliated with the two parties and their leaders.
Despite the suspension, both SAF and RSF delegations have remained in Jeddah, the venue for the talks, engaging with the facilitators to discuss ways of facilitating humanitarian assistance and establishing immediate agreements before negotiations can be resumed.
A statement released on Sunday reiterated the facilitators’ readiness to resume formal talks and reminded the parties of their obligations under the May 11 Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect the Civilians in Sudan namely enabling humanitarian assistance and essential services restoration.
The statement further urged the two parties “to agree to and effectively implement a new ceasefire, with the aim of building towards a permanent cessation of hostilities.”
On May 31, the Sudanese army suspended its participation in the ceasefire talks, demanding that the RSF vacate residential areas, hospitals, public institutions, service facilities, and police stations, citing these steps as agreed provisions.
Amidst the ongoing conflict, the paramilitary forces face increasing accusations of looting civilian houses, vehicles, and belongings. Additionally, they have been accused of forcefully expelling residents and taking over their homes.
As a result of these continued abuses, civilians in Khartoum are fleeing their homes, while also enduring airstrikes and bombings by the Sudanese army targeting RSF positions in residential areas.
(ST)