IGAD pushes for direct talks between Sudan’s rival generals to end conflict

JUBA – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is making a renewed effort to end the conflict in Sudan by urging a face-to-face meeting between the warring factions within the next two weeks.

This proposal, announced at the 42^nd Extraordinary Assembly of Heads of State and Government summit hosted by President Museveni of Uganda, aims to bring General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, leader of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), to the negotiating table.

The summit communiqué expressed deep concern about the ongoing fighting and its devastating impact on the Sudanese people.

It emphasized that “Sudan does not belong to the parties to the conflict only but the Sudanese people,” urging both sides to prioritize dialogue and negotiation over continued bloodshed.

IGAD reiterated its willingness to facilitate “an all-inclusive peace process” in collaboration with Sudanese stakeholders, the African Union, and international actors.

It also called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire to pave the way for meaningful political discussions.

This push for direct talks comes after the Sudanese government’s decision to boycott the Entebbe summit due to IGAD’s failure to arrange a pre-summit meeting between the rival generals.

Khartoum’s objection to the inclusion of a rebel leader in the summit further highlighted the existing complexities within Sudan’s political landscape.

The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has already claimed over 12,000 lives, and displaced more than 7.3 million people internally and beyond Sudan’s borders.

The recent displacement of 500,000 individuals from parts of Al-Gezira State and other states underscores the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution.

IGAD’s renewed push for direct talks offers a glimmer of hope for ending this devastating conflict.

However, the success of this initiative hinges on the willingness of both generals to come to the table with genuine intentions to negotiate and prioritize the well-being of their nation and its people.