In a call to action, the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) has urged the immediate implementation of a plan to end the ongoing conflict in Sudan and pave the way for a civilian-led transitional government.

During a Ministerial-level meeting on November 15, 2023, the AU PSC, the conflict management and resolution body of the African Union, deliberated on the escalating armed conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). 

In a communiqué issued ten days later, the PSC strongly condemned the ongoing violence, which has caused a devastating humanitarian crisis in the country. They denounced the indiscriminate killings of civilians, widespread looting of property, and acts of sexual violence.

“The Council requests the Chairperson of the Commission, working closely with IGAD, to expedite the implementation of the AU Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan and IGAD Roadmap for Peace in the Republic of Sudan,” the communiqué stated.

The 15-member body emphasized the urgent need to convene a two-stage Political Dialogue, focusing on discussions towards a comprehensive ceasefire and the establishment of a transitional civilian government. 

On April 20, the African Union, the United Nations, and other regional organizations convened an international high-level meeting on Sudan. The participants called for an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of an Expanded Mechanism for Sudan, led by the African Union executive body. 

On May 27, 2023, the PSC adopted the African Union Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan, outlining six key objectives. These goals include establishing a coordination mechanism to harmonize regional and international efforts, achieving an immediate and permanent cessation of hostilities, ensuring an effective humanitarian response, and resuming a credible and inclusive political transition. 

Despite U.S. and Saudi Arabian mediation efforts, ceasefire talks that began on May 6 failed to produce a tangible result. While the two belligerents signed a declaration of principles to protect civilians on May 11 and a seven-day ceasefire on May 20, a formal ceasefire agreement eluded them, hindering the resumption of political talks.

The PSC reiterated its requests for the Chairperson of the Commission to establish a High-Level Ad hoc Panel on Sudan, tasked with engaging with all Sudanese stakeholders, including women and youth.

Furthermore, in response to concerning reports of regional support for the RSF, the meeting reiterated the need for countries in the region and beyond to maintain neutrality and refrain from providing any military or financial assistance to either belligerent. (ST)