Sudan’s Sovereign Council Chairman Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has set conditions for peace talks with Tagadum, demanding they renounce the RSF and rejecting the NCP’s return. He reaffirmed the need for political unity and outlined plans for a new government to tackle ongoing conflicts, while rejecting ceasefire proposals until significant troop withdrawals by the RSF are achieved.
On February 8, 2025, Sudan’s Sovereign Council Chairman Abdel Fattah al-Burhan outlined conditions for peace with the Coordination of Civil Democratic Forces (Tagadum). He requested that they renounce the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and rejected the return of al-Bashir’s National Congress Party (NCP), stating that political maneuvering should cease. Al-Burhan emphasized that anyone compromising the nation’s stability would not be tolerated, while welcoming those who renounce violence to return.
He instructed the Passports Department to expedite passport issuance for Tagadum leaders, ensuring their ability to return to Sudan. Al-Burhan noted everyone’s right to voice opinions, but underscored that political discourse must respect national integrity. The ongoing conflict since April 2023 has led to difficulties for activists needing travel documents, especially those linked to the RSF.
Al-Burhan expressed a desire to distinguish between patriots and opponents of the state, advocating for the latter to “declare repentance” to be accepted back into society. He addressed the urge for a ceasefire from Tagadum, urging political factions to prioritize national unity over personal gain. He rejected the idea of any group attempting to manipulate the armed forces for political objectives.
He declared plans for a new transitional government, possibly referred to as a war or caretaker government, aiming to support military operations against the RSF with independent experts overseeing its formation. This follows prior constitutional amendments adjusting the transitional framework initially agreed upon in 2019 with the Forces of Freedom and Change.
In rejecting calls for a ceasefire during Ramadan, Al-Burhan criticized the idea of delivering aid while surrounded by violence. He stated unequivocally his refusal to negotiate a ceasefire until the RSF withdrew from critical regions, asserting that talks would only commence under a more stable and secure framework.
The political landscape in Sudan has been tumultuous since the conflict’s outbreak in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Al-Burhan emerged as a key figure, assuming a leading role in the Sovereign Council which plays a pivotal role in the country’s governance and military strategy. The NCP, a remnant of former President Omar al-Bashir’s administration, has faced scrutiny regarding its involvement in current conflicts as the nation navigates a path toward recovery amid internal strife. Efforts for political dialogue have been complicated by factions within Sudan seeking either to consolidate power or push back against the military’s influence. Al-Burhan’s government aims to balance these competing interests while striving to foster unity among those committed to a peaceful resolution. His recent statements reflect a significant pivot towards consolidating military goals while navigating the complexities of Sudan’s political milieu.
In summary, Al-Burhan’s recent statements signify a definitive stance against both the RSF and any ambitions for the return of al-Bashir’s party. He emphasizes patriotic unity while managing the interim governance structure. The call for peace with conditions attached reflects the ongoing struggle to establish a legitimate authority in Sudan amid constant internal conflict. Al-Burhan’s focus on military operations against the RSF highlights the complexity of achieving stability in the region, particularly as calls for humanitarian ceasefires continue to surface.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
