Sudanese political figures discuss path to peace at Geneva workshop
April 20, 2024 (GENEVA) – Sudanese political figures concluded a three-day productive workshop in Geneva on Friday. They agreed on the need for a humanitarian ceasefire, forging a path towards peace and a process to restore civilian rule.
Facilitated by the Swiss foreign ministry and managed by the French Promediation group, the discussions (from 17 to 20 April) focused on achieving a humanitarian ceasefire to allow aid access and establishing a Sudanese-led dialogue for a return to democratic rule.
While a broad range of politicians participated, they did so in a personal capacity, not as official representatives of parties or organizations. Future sessions will involve formal party delegations.
A key outcome was the unanimous call for a ceasefire to address the humanitarian crisis. Participants also stressed the importance of a Sudanese-owned dialogue to establish a pluralistic democracy.
However, significant differences remain on how to proceed. The inclusion of the National Congress Party (NCP), which aligns with the former regime, and the role of the military – Sudanese army and Rapid Support Forces alike – in the process are particularly contentious issues.
Opinions varied on the military’s involvement, with some proposing limited participation of the army and the RSF, others advocating their complete exclusion, and a third group favouring a more integrated role.
Further discussions are needed to determine the process’s format, agenda, location, funding, and the role of external actors.
Speaking to Sudan Tribune several participants described the discussions as frank and marked by clear progress. A high degree of mutual listening helped thaw relations significantly, enabling a mature and productive approach to the issues.
It’s important to note that representatives of the former regime and the warring parties were excluded from the Geneva meeting. All other Sudanese political forces were invited regardless of their stance on the conflict.
This workshop echoes a similar agreement reached at a Paris meeting organized by France on April 15th. The Paris seminar included only civilian actors, while the Geneva meeting, in addition, involved the armed movements that signed the Juba peace agreement.
(ST)