The African Union has stated that Sudan must undertake clear democratic reforms before lifting its suspension from AU activities. Commissioner Bankole Adeoye highlighted the need for progress towards a constitutionally-driven government as requested by Sudanese officials. Ongoing discussions aim to include various political factions, with an insistence on ceasing violence during this transitional period.
Bankole Adeoye, the African Union Commissioner for Peace and Security, stated that Sudan’s re-engagement with the AU is contingent on clear, demonstrable steps towards constitutional and democratic reform. These comments were made following a request from Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Yousef, urging the AU to reassess Sudan’s situation in light of recent developments regarding their political transition.
During a press conference in Addis Ababa, Adeoye mentioned that a committee will review developments surrounding Sudan’s compliance with the roadmap set by Lt Gen Abdelfattah El Burhan, leader of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council. The AU initially suspended Sudan’s participation in June 2019 after the military coup that led to President Omar Al Bashir’s ousting, mandating the establishment of a civilian-led government.
The AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) had previously condemned the coup, initially providing a 15-day ultimatum for a transition to a civilian government. However, this was extended multiple times, ultimately leading to a suspension that has now persisted intermittently since then as Sudan failed to install a civilian authority.
Adeoye affirmed that the AU’s protocols on lifting suspended memberships are explicit, urging Sudan and other recently suspended nations such as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Guinea to undertake necessary actions for reinstating their activities within the AU. The need for actual progress towards peace in Sudan was emphasized, most notably by the Civil Democratic Alliance led by former PM Abdullah Hamdok.
In a related note, Adeoye announced plans for an inclusive dialogue among Sudanese political factions, asserting that the National Congress Party (NCP) would not partake in these discussions. He urged the Sudanese military and Rapid Support Forces to cease hostilities, assuring that the AU remains committed to resolving the ongoing crises in Sudan.
The African Union has placed conditions on Sudan’s reinstatement, emphasizing the necessity for concrete actions towards democratic reforms. With ongoing dialogues and pressure for peace and political stability, the AU seeks to involve various Sudanese factions while excluding the NCP. The road ahead involves significant commitment to transforming Sudan’s political structure and ensuring a civilian-led government.
Original Source: www.dabangasudan.org
