Sudan celebrates the UN Security Council's rejection of a parallel government

1. International concern and risks of fragmentation
2. Commitment to Sudan's sovereignty and stability
3. Humanitarian crisis worsens

The Sudanese government has welcomed the statement issued by the United Nations Security Council rejecting the signing of a letter aimed at establishing a parallel governmental authority in the country. This decision reinforces the international commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sudan in the midst of a devastating conflict.

International concern and risks of fragmentation

The Security Council expressed its deep concern over the signing of the charter on 22 February in Kenya by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Sudanese political and armed groups. According to the organisation, the creation of a parallel government could aggravate the fragmentation of the country and worsen the already serious humanitarian crisis facing Sudan.

In response, the Sudanese government strongly protested Kenya's participation in these negotiations and withdrew its ambassador in Nairobi, Kamal Jabara, in a sign of disapproval. However, Kenya defended its role, stating that its intention was to contribute to a peaceful solution to the conflict in coordination with the UN and the African Union.

Commitment to Sudan's sovereignty and stability

The Sudanese Minister of Culture and Information and government spokesman, Khalid Alesir, emphasised the importance of the Security Council's backing and reiterated Sudan's commitment to the search for solutions that will put an end to the war without compromising the unity of the country. He also emphasised the government's willingness to collaborate with the international community to assist the victims of the conflict and to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid

The Security Council, on the initiative of the A3+ group (Algeria, Somalia, Sierra Leone and Guyana), reaffirmed its ‘firm commitment’ to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sudan and warned of the possible repercussions of the fragmentation of the country. It also urged all parties to the conflict to cease hostilities and engage in genuine political dialogue to achieve a lasting ceasefire.

Humanitarian crisis worsens

The conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF, which broke out in April 2023, has caused more than 20,000 deaths and the displacement of 14 million people, according to official UN figures. However, studies by US universities estimate that the death toll could be as high as 130,000. The crisis has led the international community to redouble its efforts to achieve a ceasefire, especially in the face of the imminent threat of famine and humanitarian collapse in the region.

The 15 members of the Security Council have expressed their ‘deep concern’ at the continuing violence and have backed the calls from the African Union and the UN Secretary General for a ceasefire during Ramadan. Meanwhile, the alliance between the RSF and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) has expanded the control of these groups in southern Sudan, intensifying the struggle for power and hindering stability in the country.

The Security Council's statement represents a key endorsement of Sudan's unity and a call to the international community to prevent further fragmentation of the country. However, the escalation of the conflict and the humanitarian crisis remain an urgent challenge that requires a coordinated and sustained response to restore peace and stability in the region.