...a union consisting of 53 African states, most run by dictators of one flavor or another. The only all-African state not in the AU is Morocco. Established in 2002, the AU is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was even less successful...
and IGAD-facilitated preparatory meeting for an inter-Sudan
...a Moslem country located in the Horn of Africa. It is noted for its affinity for rule by ex- or current generals, its holy men, and for the oppression of the native Afro population by its Arab conquerors. South Sudan, populated mostly by the natives, split off from Sudan proper, which left North and South Darfur to be oppressed by the guys with turbans...ese political dialogue have officially excluded the former ruling National Congress Party (NCP) from participating in the post-war political process.
This decision was reached during the conclusion of the first preparatory meeting, attended by approximately 20 diverse groups representing political blocs, parties, civil society, and youth.
The participants agreed that the first phase of dialogue would focus on crucial issues such as achieving a ceasefire, facilitating humanitarian aid delivery, and establishing a transitional framework. A second phase is planned to delve into broader state-building concerns, including establishing a state founded on principles of citizenship, democracy, justice, and sustainable peace. Ensuring human rights
...which often include carefully measured allowances of
freedomat the convenience of the state...
for all citizens and reforming state institutions are also key priorities.
The closing session experienced delays due to disagreements over condemning the Rapid Support Forces and their international backers, as well as the formation of a caretaker or technocratic government. However,
a hangover is the wrath of grapes...
after discussions with the African Union envoy to Sudan, Mohammed Belaiche, consensus was reached on a final statement and agenda.
Mubarak Ardol, a prominent leader within the Democratic Bloc, clarified that the dialogue aims to be inclusive, excluding only individuals facing legal charges or convictions, particularly those related to genocide, crimes against humanity, or war crimes. This implicitly encompasses the NCP, which was dissolved and banned under the Constitutional Declaration.
Ardol emphasized that the meeting’s discussions centred on ending the ongoing conflict, implementing the Jeddah agreement, and initiating direct negotiations to unify and reform Sudan’s security sector. The participants also expressed strong support for the unrestricted delivery of humanitarian aid, particularly to the hard-hit Nuba Mountains region in South Kordofan.
In his opening remarks, Mohammed Chambas, Head of the African Union High-Level Panel for Sudan, stated that the five-day preparatory meeting aimed to foster goodwill and facilitate dialogue between Sudanese political factions and civil society groups. He emphasized that the meeting was part of a broader effort to peacefully resolve the conflict in Sudan and pave the way for an inclusive inter-Sudanese dialogue. Chambas affirmed the African Union’s commitment to non-interference, stating that the meeting’s agenda and topics were determined solely by the participants themselves.