AUPSC, UNSC call for inclusive dialogue to restore Sudan’s democracy
October 8, 2023 (KHARTOUM) – The African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) have jointly issued a call for an all-inclusive dialogue aimed at reviving Sudan’s democratic transition process.
Meeting for their 17th Annual Joint Consultative Meeting at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on October 6, the AUPSC and a delegation of UNSC members reiterated their commitment to their cooperative efforts in peace and security.
Regarding the situation in Sudan, the meeting strongly condemned the ongoing and unacceptable violent clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. The statement highlighted indiscriminate attacks on civilians, the looting of humanitarian supplies, and the destruction of civilian infrastructure, private property, and diplomatic missions.
The AUPSC and UNSC stressed that no military solution to the conflict is feasible and emphasized the importance of dialogue and reconciliation in achieving and sustaining peace within the country. They emphasized the urgent need for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the establishment of a permanent ceasefire.
Furthermore, the joint statement called for the resumption of the political transition process, culminating in elections to establish a democratically elected, civilian-led government.
The AUPSC and UNSC reiterated the need for inclusivity and the active participation of all Sudanese stakeholders representing diverse segments of society, including civil society in Sudan. This approach aims to ensure that the Sudanese people have complete ownership of the peace process.
It is worth noting that the military-led government in Sudan has rejected the African Union’s initiative on Sudan, accusing the regional body of bias. They point out that the African Union suspended Sudan’s membership after the October 25, 2021, coup but has not taken similar action in response to some other coups in Africa.
In contrast, pro-democracy forces appreciate the African Union’s efforts but reject its call for inclusivity, viewing it as an attempt to reintegrate the banned former regime. They also stress that the Sudanese should own this process, not the regional organisation.
Sudanese political actors further believe that the primary focus should be on ending the ongoing conflict through the resumption of the Jeddah process, brokered by Saudi Arabia and the United States.
The AUPSC and UNSC expressed deep concern about the dire humanitarian situation across Sudan and commended neighbouring countries that have provided refuge to those fleeing the violent conflict. They called upon the international community to provide necessary support to both refugees and host countries.
Furthermore, they appealed to all parties involved to ensure swift, secure, and unrestricted humanitarian access throughout Sudan, in accordance with international law and guided by UN principles of humanitarian assistance, including humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence.
(ST)