AU welcomes Sudanese-Sudanese dialogue initiative to end conflict

The African Union Commission has welcomed a new initiative to facilitate a Sudanese-Sudanese dialogue aimed at finding a political solution to the country’s ongoing conflict.

The Commission said the dialogue, to be conducted within Sudan, should bring together all civil, political and societal stakeholders to help build a shared national vision.

In a statement issued on Monday, August 31, the commission said the process must be inclusive and genuinely owned and led by Sudanese stakeholders if it is to contribute to lasting peace and stability in the country.

“In this context, the leadership of the Commission welcomes the launch of an initiative to facilitate a Sudanese-Sudanese dialogue within Sudan, under the supervision of an independent committee of Sudanese elders," the statement read in part.

The Commission said since the outbreak of the Sudanese crisis in April 2023, it had worked to bridge divisions among Sudanese stakeholders and create conditions for an end to the armed conflict.

It said its efforts had focused on promoting dialogue, preserving national unity and institutions, and supporting the consolidation of a democratic state.

The Commission urged the independent committee overseeing the dialogue to ensure that consultations include Sudanese civil society, political actors and other societal groups.

According to the AU, the ultimate objective should be to establish a united, sovereign and peaceful Sudan governed by legitimate civilian institutions.

It also called for the country to have one national security architecture and effective mechanisms for resolving political and social differences through peaceful means.

“The ultimate goal should be a united, sovereign, and peaceful Sudan governed by legitimate civilian institutions, with one national security architecture and effective mechanisms for resolving political and social differences peacefully," the continental body noted.

The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has pitted the Sudanese Armed Forces against the Rapid Support Forces and triggered a severe humanitarian crisis.