Sudanese groups campaign for extension of fact-finding mission

September 4, 2024 (PORT SUDAN) – A coalition of Sudanese human rights and civil society groups has launched a campaign to extend the mandate of the International Fact-Finding Mission in Sudan, ahead of the mission’s report to the U.N. Human Rights Council this month.

The coalition, which includes professional bodies, trade unions, political parties and women’s groups, is urging the international community to support an extension during the Council’s session on September 9.

Mohamed Salah al-Din, a member of the Emergency Lawyers group, said the campaign aims to ensure continued investigation into violations committed during the ongoing conflict.

“The continuation of the war poses challenges to the international community in fulfilling its moral obligation to hold accountable those responsible for the widespread crimes,” stressed  Salah al-Din.

The campaign has reportedly garnered support from various sectors and plans to hold seminars in Cairo and Kampala. It has also sent letters to the missions of the 47 countries participating in the Council’s session, including Sudan.

A statement by the coalition criticized both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces for their lack of concern for civilian protection and unwillingness to investigate abuses. It also accused them of spreading misinformation.

The statement stressed the need for the mission’s extension to ensure accountability for violations of international humanitarian law and to preserve evidence for future prosecutions.

The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries, displaced millions, and left many facing famine. The Fact-Finding Mission was established to investigate these violations and address Sudan’s history of impunity.