Rédaction Africa Links 24 with SudanTribune
Published on 2024-03-08 12:39:49
On March 7, 2024, in New York, the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, made a plea for a one-month ceasefire in Sudan during the holy month of Ramadan. This call coincides with the upcoming Security Council vote on a resolution drafted by Britain, which demands a halt to the ongoing fighting in the country.
During a meeting focused on the situation in Sudan, Guterres urged all warring factions to lay down their arms. He emphasized the urgent need to end the nearly year-long conflict to prevent further escalation and instability in the region. Guterres stated, “It’s time to silence the guns and amplify the call for peace. This ceasefire must pave the way for a permanent end to fighting across the nation and establish a clear path towards lasting peace.”
The resolution, which is expected to be approved by the 15-member Security Council, calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities leading into Ramadan. It expresses deep concern over the escalating violence and worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan, particularly in Darfur, where severe food insecurity has become a major issue.
The conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in a dire humanitarian situation, with 25 million people in urgent need of assistance. Sudan is currently facing the world’s largest internal displacement crisis, with 6.3 million individuals seeking refuge within the country since the conflict began. In addition, 1.7 million people have fled to neighboring countries in search of safety.
In response to the resolution, the United States has expressed support, while Russia seems to be leaning towards supporting the Sudanese government. Russia’s Deputy Representative, Anna Evstigneeva, commended the government’s efforts to improve humanitarian access. She stressed the need for increased aid deliveries through various government-controlled entry points.
Evstigneeva noted the Sudanese authorities’ willingness to work towards a positive resolution and called for the “other party involved” to compromise and prioritize Sudan’s national interests. This aligns with the Sudanese government’s stance of distancing itself from the RSF, which is labeled as “rebels.”
Algeria, speaking on behalf of Mozambique, Sierra Leone, and itself, called for coordinated peace efforts in Sudan. They emphasized the worsening humanitarian situation and urged all Sudanese actors to declare an immediate ceasefire. They saw Ramadan as an opportunity for reconciliation and restraint, which could lead to lasting peace.
The representative also welcomed the facilitation of humanitarian access through border crossings and the announcement of new peace talks. However, they stressed the importance of coordination in diplomatic efforts and highlighted the African Union’s role in resolving the crisis. Additionally, they voiced concern about external actors fueling the conflict and called for a firm condemnation of such interference.
In conclusion, the international community is making concerted efforts to address the conflict in Sudan and ensure a peaceful resolution. The call for a ceasefire during Ramadan is a crucial step towards ending the violence and establishing lasting peace in the region.
Read the original article on Sudan Tribune
