Call for Ceasefire and Inclusive Political Process in Sudan

Three years after the outbreak of war in Sudan on April 15, 2023, this opinion piece argues for an immediate ceasefire and a new political path. The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has caused massive destruction, killing tens of thousands and displacing millions. The author, Hala Al-Karib, emphasizes that neither military faction can solely determine Sudan's future. Instead, a comprehensive political process involving all political actors and the Sudanese people is essential. The article traces the conflict's roots to the fall of Omar al-Bashir’s regime in 2019, noting how a botched transition and external interference weakened civilian unity. It criticizes the RSF for its genocidal history and ongoing atrocities, including sexual violence and infrastructure destruction, while also highlighting the SAF's lack of vision. The piece calls for international recognition of the Sudanese people's agency and urges neighbors and global powers to stop supporting militarized solutions. Ultimately, it advocates for a governance system that guarantees safety, basic services, and genuine participation for all citizens, rejecting the notion that either warring party offers stability or legitimacy.