Sudan rejects Western proposal to investigate war violations

October 4, 2023 (KHARTOUM) – The Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday rejected a draft resolution to form an international committee investigating war violations presented by Britain and other European countries to the United Nations Human Rights Council.

The ministry “rejects the draft resolution because it is based on a distorted view of the situation in Sudan and is prejudiced against the army.” It also said that the resolution was presented despite the opposition of the Arab and African groups and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

The ministry further stated that the resolution did not consider the Sudanese priorities of ending the rebellion, stopping atrocities, and facilitating the arrival of humanitarian aid.

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been accused of serious war crimes, including murder, detention, torture, occupation of civilian homes and property, and conflict-related sexual violence. The Sudanese army has also been accused of deliberately launching air strikes on civilian targets, resulting in the deaths of dozens of civilians.

The ministry described the draft resolution as “lacking objectivity” because it equated the army with the RSF, even though Sudan is facing a war launched by a “militia that has recruited mercenaries” from some countries in the region.

The ministry said that Sudan is committed to protecting and promoting human rights and has formed a committee headed by the attorney general to investigate violations by the RSF.

A fierce war broke out between the army and the RSF on April 15, 2023. According to the United Nations, the conflict has led to the destruction of infrastructure, the displacement of 5.4 million people, and a 42% decline in the economy.

(ST)