The African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have reaffirmed their commitment to facilitating a Sudanese-owned and Sudanese-led peace process. The two bodies emphasized their dedication to restoring the country to a civilian-led constitutional order, ensuring the process reflects the aspirations and welfare of the Sudanese people.
The joint statement was issued by the AU High-Level Panel and the IGAD Special Envoy to Sudan following a crucial meeting at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa. The discussion focused on the next steps towards an inclusive Inter-Sudanese Political Dialogue, a vital initiative aimed at securing long-term peace in the war-torn nation.
Between February 19 and 21, Sudanese civilian political groups convened at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa under the joint auspices of AU and IGAD. The meetings provided a platform to deliberate on ways to foster an inclusive and credible political settlement for Sudan’s ongoing crisis. The Sudanese groups expressed strong support for an AU-IGAD-led process as the foundation for achieving a sustainable resolution.
Despite the collective efforts, the joint statement acknowledged that Sudan’s situation remains fluid and increasingly complex. Recent developments have exacerbated divisions among political factions, complicating the journey toward a unified resolution. The AU-IGAD mediation team stressed the importance of bridging these divisions to lay the groundwork for a stable political future.
One of the key takeaways from the consultations was the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis plaguing Sudan. The mediators underscored the importance of securing an immediate ceasefire to halt the worsening humanitarian situation while concurrently setting up frameworks for a long-term political solution.
The AU and IGAD urged all stakeholders to work together in good faith to overcome the challenges that have hindered previous peace efforts. The mediators emphasized that the success of the Sudanese-led peace process hinges on political inclusivity, trust-building, and commitment from all parties.
As the AU continues to navigate the Sudan crisis, the mediation team extended gratitude to outgoing AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat for his dedication to achieving durable peace in Sudan. They also welcomed Mahmoud Ali Youssouf as the new Chairperson, expressing optimism about his leadership in advancing the peace process.
With the AU and IGAD reaffirming their commitment to Sudan’s stability, all eyes are now on the next steps in this delicate and critical mediation process.
