The UN envoy for Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, underlines the urgent need for a peace deal that respects national sovereignty as the conflict approaches its second year. He emphasizes prioritizing civilian safety, and calls for lessons from previous mistakes in addressing the crisis. Furthermore, he encourages international cooperation while advocating for unity among Sudanese factions. His recent communications and consultations reflect a sincere approach to foster a balanced dialogue for a peaceful resolution.
As Sudan’s conflict approaches its second anniversary, Ramtane Lamamra, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, stresses the urgent need for a peace deal that respects the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He highlighted the dire humanitarian situation resulting from ongoing violence, calling for immediate coordinated efforts to facilitate peace talks. The envoy asserts that restoring the stability of Sudan hinges upon recognizing the will of its people.
The unrest began in April 2023 when hostilities broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a formerly allied group. This brutal conflict has led to over 12 million people fleeing their homes—some seeking refuge within Sudan and others crossing international borders. Mr. Lamamra noted the alarming famine conditions affecting ten regions already and warned that an additional seventeen are at risk.
In light of the escalating violence, Lamamra emphasized that peace negotiations must be rooted in a political solution derived from the collective will of both warring factions. He urged leaders to prioritize the lives of civilians and echoed the Secretary-General’s call for a ceasefire during the approaching Holy Month of Ramadan.
He further implored the Sudanese to draw from past experiences, stating that future resolutions must involve a commitment to the country’s sovereignty, independence, and unity. “This is fundamental and indisputable,” he remarked, underlining his dedication to fostering a strong, unified Sudan while avoiding past mistakes that led to prolonged conflict.
On recent developments in Nairobi, where competing political and military factions outlined plans for governance over RSF-controlled areas, Lamamra conveyed concern over this growing fragmentation of Sudan. He deemed such moves undesirable, pointing out the essential need for unity among Sudanese factions as they move toward discussions on forming a cohesive state. In reference to a roadmap established in Port Sudan, he called for broader engagement to enhance discussions aimed at national dialogue.
He urged the international community to engage responsibly in resolving the crisis, stressing the need for a comprehensive understanding of Sudan’s complex history and the underlying causes of the current conflict. The envoy reiterated the importance of synchronized international and regional actions, advocating for a unified front against the ongoing violence.
Mr. Lamamra also highlighted the importance of his consultations with a diverse segment of the Sudanese populace, including youth and women’s organizations, to gather vital insights on the situation. He expressed his commitment to discretion rather than public proclamations, mentioning he has formally presented recommendations for civilian protection to the Sudanese leadership.
In his engagements with government officials in Port Sudan, Lamamra emphasized the principle of respect, noting that listening to all viewpoints is critical to fostering trust. He passionately asserted that every party shares a common love for Sudan, and a collective desire for peace is essential for the nation’s recovery.
Recently, he attended the African Union Summit aiming to coordinate actions among neighboring nations and international bodies concerning Sudan. He acknowledged that the Sudan crisis topped agenda discussions, and he welcomed the newly elected AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssef for his commitment to promoting peace.
Referring to the Jeddah Declaration—signed nearly two years ago to protect civilians—Mr. Lamamra expressed hope for its implementation, emphasizing that it remains a crucial agreement that all parties endorsed shortly after conflict erupted. He underscored that preparatory discussions must commence swiftly to capitalize on this pivotal document.
Wrapping up, Lamamra extended a heartfelt message to the Sudanese people and the conflicting parties as Ramadan approaches. He invoked themes of brotherhood and peace, urging all parties to honor the sanctity of life during this sacred time. “Our hope is that our brothers will seize this opportunity to think about a Ramadan free of violence, a Ramadan filled with brotherhood and the aspiration for a better future.”
In summary, the UN envoy Ramtane Lamamra has called for a renewed focus on peace negotiations in Sudan amid an escalating humanitarian crisis. Emphasizing national sovereignty and the need for unity among the Sudanese people, he advocates for the prioritization of civilian protection and the importance of international support. The envoy’s message of hope and the call for a peaceful Ramadan signifies a turning point in the discourse surrounding the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: news.un.org
