IGAD weighs Sudan’s return to regional bloc

October 22, 2024 (ADDIS ABABA) – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is considering reinstating Sudan’s membership to help resolve the ongoing conflict, according to the bloc’s envoy to Sudan, Lawrence Korbandy.

Sudan suspended its IGAD membership in January, rejecting any decisions the organization might make concerning its internal affairs.

In an interview with Sudan Tribune, Korbandy emphasized the importance of Sudan’s return, highlighting IGAD’s role in preventing the internationalization of the conflict and keeping it within an African framework.

“Several reasons support reinstating Sudan’s membership and lifting the freeze,” Korbandy said. “Firstly, Sudan is a founding member of IGAD. Secondly, Sudan’s return is crucial to keep the issue within the African context and ensure a Sudanese-led solution.”

He added, “IGAD is fully confident in its ability to find solutions for its member states. Therefore, Sudan’s return and lifting of the suspension remain vital.”

Korbandy noted that IGAD is working to arrange a meeting between Sudan’s military leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the head of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti.

“IGAD has the capacity to resolve all issues within its member states, and its history proves that,” he said. “As for arranging a meeting between Burhan and Hemedti, we are working on that.”

Referring to the recent Geneva talks, Korbandy stated, “The Geneva talks did not achieve the desired outcomes due to several reasons, primarily external factors related to the interests of many countries in Sudan. The next step is to bridge the viewpoints of the Sudanese parties on ceasing hostilities, delivering humanitarian aid to all those affected, addressing the situation of displaced people, and preparing for a political process to end the war.”

Regarding the Jeddah platform, Korbandy explained that the declaration faced challenges, mainly due to the lack of implementation mechanisms. He indicated that IGAD has a vision for mechanisms that could lead to implementing the Jeddah Declaration.

Korbandy stressed the need to halt the military escalation. “Our stance has always been against escalating military operations, as it hinders a ceasefire and increases the suffering of the Sudanese people who are living in catastrophic humanitarian conditions,” he said.

Korbandy concluded by emphasizing IGAD’s commitment to finding solutions to the Sudanese crisis and coordinating with all partners and involved parties.