The African Union Peace and Security Council convened on March 11, 2025, to address the escalating crisis in Sudan, expressing grave concern over the RSF’s attempt to establish a parallel government. The Council reaffirmed its commitment to the country’s sovereignty and called for immediate peace talks and humanitarian access during Ramadan. They emphasized collaboration with Sudanese stakeholders toward achieving a democratic resolution based on previously established frameworks.
On March 11, 2025, the African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) convened its 1264th meeting to discuss the dire situation in Sudan. The meeting was chaired by H.E. Ambassador Mohamed Arrouchi, the Permanent Representative of Morocco to the AU. Council members reviewed past decisions regarding Sudan, including several important communiqués and press statements from previous PSC meetings held in 2023 and 2024.
The PSC expressed serious concern regarding recent announcements by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which indicate an intention to establish a parallel government in Sudan. Such actions, the Council warned, carry significant risks that could lead to the partitioning of the nation. The Council strongly urged member states and the international community to reject any forms of recognition or support for this proposed parallel government.
In affirming its commitment to the sovereignty and unity of Sudan, the PSC highlighted the devastating humanitarian crisis stemming from the ongoing conflict, which has displaced over 12 million civilians. The Council called for a ceasefire and full humanitarian access, particularly during the sacred month of Ramadan, and stressed the importance of engaging in comprehensive peace discussions to restore stability in the region.
The PSC reiterated its steadfast dedication to collaborating with Sudan’s stakeholders to achieve lasting peace, as guided by the AU Roadmap adopted on May 27, 2023. The Council emphasized the need for a return to a constitutional democratic order through political dialogue and the implementation of the Jeddah Declaration signed by both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF in May 2023, underscoring the urgency of prioritizing humanitarian access and a political resolution.
Additionally, the PSC expressed support for the efforts of its Ad-Hoc Presidential Committee and the High-Level Panel on Sudan in seeking a peaceful solution to the crisis threatening Sudan’s sovereignty and integrity. The Council committed to remaining actively engaged in this pressing matter until a resolution is reached.
The 1264th meeting of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council underscores the Council’s deep concern regarding the developments in Sudan, particularly the establishment of a parallel government by the RSF. The Council reaffirms its commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while urging all parties to pursue a comprehensive and inclusive peace process. Ongoing humanitarian crises necessitate immediate action, highlighting the need for collaboration and dialogue among Sudanese stakeholders to facilitate a return to democratic governance and lasting peace.
Original Source: reliefweb.int