The African Union (AU) is stepping up its efforts to bring peace to Sudan, urgently calling for an immediate ceasefire between the warring factions. As the humanitarian crisis in Sudan continues to spiral, the AU is urging both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to halt the bloodshed and embark on a political transition.
Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, emphasized the gravity of the situation during the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. \"Sudan is a full-blown war with the worst humanitarian crisis in Africa, even in the world. We use this opportunity to call on the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, and their various allies to stop the bloodshed,\" Adeoye stated.
The conflict, which reignited in mid-April 2023, has left a devastating toll with over 28,700 lives lost and more than 14 million people displaced, according to international estimates. The AU, comprising 55 member states, has been deeply concerned about the escalating violence and its impact on civilians, particularly women and children.
Adeoye condemned all forms of violations in Sudan, highlighting the urgent need for a democratic and constitutional political transition. Despite Sudan's suspension from the AU since October 2021, the bloc remains actively engaged in seeking a resolution to the conflict.
The AU's suspension of Sudan's membership was a response to the declaration of a state of emergency by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the chairman of Sudan's Transitional Sovereign Council and commander of the SAF. Adeoye pointed out that lifting the suspension would require significant strides towards an inclusive political transition that aligns with the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance.
Beyond the immediate humanitarian concerns, the ongoing conflict is also tarnishing Sudan's reputation as a founding member of the Organization of African Unity, the precursor to the AU. The AU remains hopeful that through collective effort and adherence to shared values, peace can be restored in Sudan.
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AU urges immediate ceasefire in Sudan as humanitarian crisis worsens
cgtn.com
