Kiir steps up to facilitate meeting between Burhan and Sudan’s civilian leaders

February 4, 2024: (JUBA) –  As part of his efforts to end Sudan’s bloody conflict, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has agreed to facilitate talks between the military and civilian leadership, a senior official in Juba told Sudan Tribune on Sunday.

On Friday, a delegation of the anti-war coalition of the civilian forces (Tagadum) led by Omer al-Digair requested President Salva Kiir to press the head of the Sovereign Council and army Commander-in-Chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan to set a date for his meeting with civilian forces to find a solution to the war issue.

According to Mohamed Abdallah Ramadan Goch, South Sudan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, President Kiir has responded to numerous calls to bring together General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and civilian leaders.

Tagadum leaders say they want to reach a roadmap with the army leader leading to stop hostilities between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and hold a comprehensive process to restore a civilian-led transitional government.

While both al-Burhan and the civilian leadership have accepted talks, the date and venue remain a point of discussion. South Sudan, however, remains committed to facilitating a meeting where both sides can share their perspectives and work towards a peaceful resolution.

About the meeting between the rival military leaders, Goch said that many have come to plead with the president to bring the two brothers together,” referring to a meeting between al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, Rapid Support Forces leader.

He added that President Kiir has already been in contact with both sides, urging them to accept dialogue.

Goch emphasized South Sudan’s continued support for regional and bilateral efforts aimed at achieving an immediate ceasefire, opening humanitarian corridors, and protecting civilians. He stressed the importance of stopping human rights violations and paving the way for a transparent and peaceful transition towards a stable Sudan.

Last January, the Sudanese military-led government suspended its dealing with a mediation bordered by the IGAD leaders.

The decision freezes the efforts of the East African bloc and the African Union to end the conflict. Also, the Jeddah process stalled as the two sides failed to implement the humanitarian agreements signed last May.

(ST)