Karama calls for an immediate end to hostilities in Sudan, and for return to civilian transition

The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese armed forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is once again putting the people of Sudan in harm’s way. This violence must stop immediately, followed by return towards inclusive civilian transition in Sudan.

It is tragic that the return of such violence to streets across Sudan has seemed somewhat inevitable since there has been no justice or accountability for grave human rights violations such as the Khartoum Massacre of June 2019.

The coup of October 2021 demonstrated that Sudan’s military and paramilitary forces could not lead the country legitimately. The violence of the last few days proves once and for all that they cannot lead the country in any sense. This violence is a struggle for power and wealth between the two groups, and it further demonstrates they should have no part in the country’s future polity.

Recriminations and accountability for international partners who supported or tolerated the military’s derailing of the civilian transition must follow - but the priority now must be on de-escalation, ceasefire and protection of civilians.

We call on the international community to exert pressure on both parties to immediately cease hostilities, and for meaningful reform of the security sector, and for accountability for the violence and human rights abuses.

Lasting peace and security in Sudan will only be achieved by legitimate and inclusive leadership.