The African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) has issued a call to take immediate action toward resolving the ongoing conflict in Sudan and initiating a civilian-led transitional government.
During a high-level meeting on November 15, 2023, the AU PSC, a body specializing in conflict management within the African Union, examined the intensifying armed clashes between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Ten days following the meeting, a statement was released strongly condemning the persistent violence that has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The AU PSC denounced the indiscriminate targeting of civilians, widespread property looting, and instances of sexual violence.
In their official statement, the Council urged the Chairperson of the Commission, in collaboration with IGAD, to promptly execute the AU Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan and the IGAD Roadmap for Peace in the Republic of Sudan.
Highlighting the critical urgency of the situation, the 15-member body emphasized the necessity for a two-stage Political Dialogue.
The primary focus of this dialogue would be on achieving a comprehensive ceasefire followed by the formation of a transitional civilian government.
Despite mediation efforts by the United States and Saudi Arabia, talks for a ceasefire, which commenced on May 6, failed to yield substantive outcomes. Although the conflicting parties signed a declaration of principles on May 11 and a seven-day ceasefire on May 20, they were unable to reach a formal ceasefire agreement.
Reiterating its stance, the PSC emphasized the need for the Chairperson of the Commission to establish a High-Level Ad hoc Panel on Sudan. This panel would engage with all Sudanese stakeholders, including women and youth, to advance the resolution process.
Moreover, addressing concerning reports of regional backing for the RSF, the meeting stressed the importance for regional and international actors to maintain neutrality and refrain from providing military or financial support to either party engaged in the conflict.
