At a time when the United Nations, the African Union, IGAD, and the Quartet made up of the United States, United Kingdom, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and UAE are trying to find a political solution to end the present crisis in Sudan, one sees an escalation of the political predicament in addition to deterioration of economic and security conditions. To date, military mobilisation is taking place in the capital Khartoum following the rampant disagreement between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF.) Moreover, reports reveal an increase in the military build-up and redeployment in strategic areas by the two forces. The struggle between the two military components has become perilous and threatens the overall security situation in Sudan. According to Al-Sudani newspaper, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) repositioned themselves and deployed no less than 60,000 soldiers in the capital. Sources say there is great readiness among the ranks of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF,) which also brought in forces from outside the capital. In addition, the police force deployed 3,000 policemen in Khartoum.Nonetheless, the UN envoy to Sudan, Volker Peretz, confirmed that the Sudanese are close to the finish line regarding reaching a final agreement. Peretz stated that "We have come a long way towards resolving the crisis in Sudan." However, a final agreement that was supposed to be signed between military leaders and political parties — who are signatories to the Dec 5 Framework Agreement — has not taken place. It was meant to be followed by the signing of a transitional constitution and the formation of a new transitional government at a later date."There are solutions to the outstanding problems between the Sudanese parties," Volker said, stressing that guarantees must be between the Sudanese parties and trust is the basis. He also stated that the United Nations and the African Union are auxiliary parties to any Sudanese agreement. Despite Volker Peretz’s statement, the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) wants at least a decade before it is fully under the (SAF.) The Sudanese Armed Forces (SASF) wants all armed groups to be absorbed within two years. There is also the issue of ranks and commands. The (RSF) wants their officers to preserve their ranks when integrated into the army while the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) want a reassessment of the officers’ competence. Who the senior (RSF) officers get their orders from is also a point of contention.On April 8, Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights voiced alarm at the present edgy state of affairs in Sudan. "As I had said during my visit to Sudan in November, the country is at a decisive juncture. Much work has been done and many positive steps taken towards the signature of a final agreement – all efforts must now be made to get the political transition back on the right path. I witnessed first-hand the fervent, awe-inspiring determination of the people of Sudan – particularly young people and women – to stand up for human rights, an inclusive, civilian-led government, accountability, and justice."In an announcement, Sudan’s Forces of Freedom, and Change (FFC) which has been representing civilians in internationally mediated talks with Sudan’s military, said that deliberations on military reformation had made some progress.A Western diplomat said that talks were still ongoing as the two military components disagreed about how to integrate the (RSF) the timeframe for this and other technicalities.The issue, despite its sensitivity and complexity, should not be exploited to disrupt the interests of the Sudanese people in achieving a full civil state, restoring transformation, and ending the military coup. Volcker reiterated that commitment to the promises of a democratic transition from the military and civilian components is critical, stressing their endeavour to form a civilian government that will lead Sudan to elections within two years, and noted that "Donor countries must work to provide aid to the Sudanese people."? Mohamed Sulieman Elfaki al-Shazly is a prolific writer and senior TV producer. The British/Sudanese author has won several awards for his work, including the Tayeb Salih International Prize for Creative Writing.
April 14, 2023 | 12:12 AM