Kenya’s foreign ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to peace in Sudan after Khartoum accused it of violating sovereignty by hosting RSF meetings. The ongoing conflict has led to significant civilian casualties and displacement, prompting calls for neutrality and dialogue among warring factions. Experts warn of potential international isolation for Kenya, given the complexities surrounding its foreign relations.
Kenya’s foreign ministry expressed its commitment to support peace initiatives in Sudan, following accusations from Khartoum that hosting a meeting for Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) constituted a violation of its sovereignty. This tension arose after Sudan labeled Kenya’s actions as an act of hostility, particularly as the RSF was poised to announce a parallel government.
The meeting held at the Kenyatta International Conference Center in Nairobi was led by RSF Deputy Commander Abdel-Rahim Hamdan Dagalo, who hinted at a significant announcement to be made. In response to Sudan’s accusations, Kenya emphasized its longstanding role in hosting Sudanese refugees and facilitating dialogue without ulterior motives.
However, international relations expert Macharia Munene cautioned that this engagement with the RSF could lead Kenya to face international isolation, branding it a potential policy misstep. He noted that President William Ruto’s friendship with RSF leader Hemedti might compromise national interests, with concerns that policy decisions appear increasingly centralized around individual relationships.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with over 24,000 fatalities and 14 million people displaced, as reported by the United Nations. The recent escalation has also sparked violence against civilians, with Sudanese officials reporting that RSF attacks have led to the deaths of more than 400 civilians, including infants.
Peace activist Haydar Abdul Karim called on regional nations to maintain neutrality and refrain from supporting specific factions or new governments. He emphasized the necessity for diplomatic pressure on the warring factions in Sudan to engage in negotiations rather than deepen divides by favoring one side over another.
Kenya’s foreign ministry reaffirms its dedication to peace in Sudan amid accusations of disregarding Sudan’s sovereignty. While Kenya aims to foster discussions, concerns over international relations and regional stability arise due to its engagement with the RSF, which could lead to isolation. Humanitarian consequences from the conflict are severe, highlighting the urgency for diplomatic negotiations among all factions involved.
Original Source: apnews.com
