Al-Burhan rejects Addis Ababa Declaration, calls Sudanese civilian forces for dialogue

 January 5, 2024 (GEBEIT) – Sudanese military leader Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has rejected an agreement recently signed between civilian forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), calling for the political parties to meet for dialogue in Port Sudan.

Addressing a group of soldiers at the Jebeit military school, al-Burhan said, “The civilian forces signed an agreement with a rebellious outlaw group that the world considers a terrorist organization.”

He added, “This agreement is unacceptable, and we will not consider it valid.”

The coalition of civil forces “Tagadum,” led by former Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok, signed the “Addis Declaration” with RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” on January 2. The agreement calls for a ceasefire without condition to be signed with the Sudanese army, ensures unfettered humanitarian access and release over 450 prisoners of war.

In a letter sent to al-Burhan on Wednesday, Hamdok urged him to meet with the civil forces coordination to build on the Addis Ababa Declaration and end the war. He emphasized that the agreement is a crucial step towards a ceasefire.

Al-Burhan’s rejection of the Addis Ababa Declaration directly responds to Hamdok’s call and could hinder the agreement’s success. His harsh criticism of Hemetti, calling him a traitor and a coward, further complicates the situation.

Despite his rejection of the agreement, al-Burhan invited the political forces to dialogue in Port Sudan, where he has relocated his residence and most government institutions.

 “We welcome any Sudanese who is willing to stop the war, benefit Sudan, and restore the dignity of the Sudanese people. We are open to dialogue with them. But you will not find our support if you want to plunder, kill, steal, and establish legitimacy for yourself.”

“We tell him you won’t get it from us”.

(ST)