Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni chaired a high level African Union Peace and Security Council meeting on Friday afternoon, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
In his address, President Museveni emphasized the tragic outcomes of political miscalculations and urged Sudanese factions to cease hostilities and engage in constructive dialogue.
“The war in Sudan is a tragic reminder of the consequences of political errors,” Museveni stated. He highlighted the dangers of prioritizing identity politics over the genuine interests of the people, resorting to violence instead of negotiation, and relying on unprepared individuals with misguided ideologies. According to Museveni, these factors have significantly contributed to the ongoing crisis in Sudan.
He further condemned the war crimes arising from these grave missteps and called for immediate action to rectify the situation. “It’s time for the Sudanese factions to cease hostilities, engage in dialogue, and entrust their nation back to its true custodians – the Sudanese people,” Museveni urged.
The President expressed optimism about the potential for peace, stressing that it is achievable if all parties involved prioritize the well-being of Sudanese citizens and correct the political errors that have led to the conflict. “Peace is achievable if we rectify these errors and prioritize the well-being of all Sudanese citizens,” he asserted.
Sudan has been embroiled in conflict since April 2023, when tensions between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) erupted into violence. The fighting has resulted in thousands of casualties and displaced millions, creating a severe humanitarian crisis. Efforts by international and regional organizations to broker peace have so far been unsuccessful, with both sides reluctant to compromise.
The meeting, attended by key stakeholders and members of the African Union, including Moussa Faki Mahamat, the AUC Chairperson, emphasized need for a unified approach to address the conflict in Sudan. The council’s discussions focused on finding sustainable solutions and supporting Sudan in its journey towards peace and stability.
The African Union Peace and Security Council continues to play a pivotal role in mediating conflicts across the continent, and today’s meeting marks a crucial step towards resolving the war in Sudan.
