Sudan's Darfur governor, Minni Arko Minawi, has expressed concerns that a proposed ceasefire should not be used to legitimize a parallel authority in the country. In a meeting with UN Special Envoy to Sudan, Pekka Havisto, Minawi discussed the ceasefire proposal, as well as the country's political, humanitarian, and security situations. He emphasized that a state cannot be built without its people and that any government's legitimacy must be based on the will of its citizens.
Minawi highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Darfur, where an estimated 12 million people reside, with over 8 million displaced internally or externally. He accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of preventing citizens from traveling and leaving their areas, describing them as being treated like "hostages and slaves in their own country." The governor also noted that the Sudanese state has opened its doors to international humanitarian organizations, but that the RSF and affiliated groups are obstructing aid delivery.
The governor emphasized that a lasting solution to the crisis requires the disarmament of the RSF and the removal of their forces from citizens' homes. He also stressed the need to guarantee the delivery of humanitarian aid and create conditions for the safe return of displaced persons and refugees. Minawi rejected the idea of a ceasefire that would allow the RSF to maintain control over territories and citizens, warning that this would only entrench the current crisis.
Minawi also expressed his rejection of any initiative that would divide Sudan or establish parallel governments. He emphasized that a sustainable peace can only be achieved through a unified Sudanese state, with its sovereignty and territorial integrity intact. The governor stated that he is in favor of peace and a genuine ceasefire that serves the civilian population, but not one that provides a political or military cover for any party.
In a related development, Minawi expressed disappointment that Sudan's Transitional Military Council head, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, was barred from delivering a speech at the UN. Minawi stated that al-Burhan's speech was not a personal one, but rather a representation of the Sudanese state and its people. He called for a review of such procedures to ensure respect for Sudan's sovereignty and its right to be represented at international forums.
Minawi's comments come amid ongoing efforts to address the Sudan crisis, which has resulted in significant humanitarian and economic challenges. The situation in Darfur remains particularly volatile, with continued reports of human rights abuses and displacement. The governor's statements highlight the complexities and challenges of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The situation in Sudan remains fragile, with multiple parties involved in the conflict. The international community continues to watch developments closely, with the UN playing a key role in efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution. Minawi's warnings against legitimizing a parallel authority in Sudan underscore the need for a careful and considered approach to addressing the country's challenges.
Key points
- Sudan's Darfur governor warns against using ceasefire to legitimize parallel authority.
- Humanitarian situation in Darfur remains dire, with millions displaced.
- Governor calls for disarmament of Rapid Support Forces and respect for Sudan's sovereignty.
