Rédaction Africa Links 24 with SudanTribune
Published on 2024-03-21 21:24:33
On March 21, 2024, the United States’ special envoy to Sudan, Tom Perriello, made a statement urging the resumption of peace talks between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) by the end of Ramadan. This call came after Perriello’s regional tour that encompassed countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Uganda, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Kenya, where he met with high-ranking officials alongside Sudanese stakeholders.
During a virtual press conference, Perriello emphasized the importance of continuing dialogue with regional players and Sudanese voices, with negotiations between the military and RSF restarting by the end of Ramadan. He stressed the need for a broader negotiating table in the next round, including regional actors, the African Union, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Perriello expressed optimism that peace could be attained within weeks or months with strong political will, but warned that every passing week without peace increased the risk of further atrocities and widespread famine. He underscored the urgency for comprehensive talks to end the conflict in Sudan.
Appointed as the U.S. special envoy to Sudan on February 26, 2024, Perriello’s mission focuses on coordinating U.S. policy towards Sudan, ending the conflict, facilitating aid delivery, empowering civilian leadership, and promoting accountability for wartime crimes. He outlined the U.S. administration’s priorities in the country, including achieving an immediate ceasefire, ensuring humanitarian aid reaches those in need, restoring the civilian-led transition, and establishing a professional military.
Perriello firmly rejected any power-sharing agreements that would allow individuals associated with the former regime to return to power, citing their lack of commitment to peace and democracy in Sudan. Reports have suggested the involvement of armed elements linked to the former regime in the conflict, as well as allegations of military commanders being influenced by the Islamic Movement, hindering peace efforts to protect their own interests.
The special envoy highlighted the effectiveness of U.S. sanctions targeting the military and RSF’s commercial enterprises, impacting individuals, banks, and institutions. These sanctions demonstrate America’s commitment to holding perpetrators of atrocities accountable, both within and outside Sudan. Perriello emphasized that sanctions would remain in place until the conflict ends, and stressed the importance of international cooperation in holding perpetrators accountable, referencing ongoing investigations by the International Criminal Court and other bodies.
Perriello pledged to continue pursuing those responsible for civilian harm, with accusations against the army for deliberate airstrikes targeting civilians and the RSF for genocide, sexual violence, forced displacement, killings, and torture. The U.S. envoy reiterated the commitment to seeking justice for these heinous crimes and ensuring accountability for those responsible.
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