Rédaction Africa Links 24 with SudanTribune
Published on 2024-03-15 12:19:07
Increased diplomatic activity in Cairo has sparked hope for Egyptian mediation in the ongoing Sudanese conflict. Recent high-level visits to the Egyptian capital by key figures involved in the Sudanese crisis suggest a potential breakthrough. Sudanese President Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, opposition leader Abdallah Hamdok, and Darfur Governor Minni Arko Minawi all held discussions with Egyptian officials in an effort to find a resolution to the conflict.
The talks aim to revive a crucial meeting between the commanders of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which is considered a critical step towards ending the war. Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Daglo (Hemetti) hold significant influence, and their agreement is essential for a lasting solution. The Arab League, with strong Egyptian backing, has emerged as a potential host for the meeting, offering its experience in mediating the recent Libyan conflict.
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit confirmed his readiness to host all warring Sudanese parties, underlining the organization’s commitment to resolving the crisis. This focus on inclusivity strengthens the prospects for a comprehensive peace agreement. The potential for a Burhan-Hemedti meeting, facilitated by the Arab League and supported by regional powers, offers a path towards a sustainable solution.
The close collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Egypt fuels hope for ending the Sudanese conflict, as demonstrated in their joint ministerial statement last January urging an immediate ceasefire. A proposed meeting in Cairo could lead to a breakthrough with the “Egyptian formula” aiming to bring together the commanders of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces under the Arab League’s umbrella. Approval from Sudanese leadership and the RSF is crucial for a broader solution.
Former Prime Minister Hamdok might revisit Cairo during Ramadan to finalize the proposal and invite the Chairman of the Sovereign Council al-Burhan and General Hemetti. The UN Security Council echoes the regional efforts with a recent resolution urging both Sudanese military forces to cease hostilities during the holy month.
Despite the international push, Governor Minni Arko Minawi of Darfur casts doubt on the prospect of a crucial meeting in Cairo between Sudanese military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo (Hemetti). He points to the collapse of a similar attempt in December 2023 and expresses concern about recent military advancements hindering the possibility of renewed dialogue.
Concerns mount regarding potential interference from overlapping Arab and Arab-African interests, threatening to stall Egyptian and Arab League mediation attempts in Sudan. The suspected support for General Hemetti by the UAE raises doubts about its neutrality in the conflict, casting a shadow on its potential involvement as a mediator.
The intricate web of regional involvement, including reported secret talks in Manama involving Egypt and the UAE, further complicates the situation. Despite pressure to include the UAE in the Jeddah peace talks, Sudan prioritizes continued Saudi-American mediation and rejects the involvement of RFS backers. Clear steps by Abu Dhabi to cease support for the insurgency could potentially open the door for a reevaluation of its role as a mediator.
Read the original article on Sudan Tribune
