AU Warns Against Parallel Sudan Govt, Putting Kenya in Tight Spot

The African Union (AU) has warned against the formation of a parallel government in Sudan, a move that could strain Kenya’s relations with the continental body after Nairobi hosted a conference that laid the groundwork for the alternative administration.

A coalition backed by Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) recently met in the Kenyan capital, where it adopted a political framework establishing a Government of Peace and Unity.

The move challenges Sudan’s military-led government, which has been operating from Port Sudan since conflict erupted in April 2023.

The AU’s Peace and Security Council rejected the initiative, cautioning that the creation of a rival administration could deepen divisions in the war-torn country and undermine efforts to restore peace.

The council urged all member states to refrain from engaging with any government other than Sudan’s internationally recognised leadership.

Kenya’s involvement in the process has drawn sharp criticism from Sudan’s military government, which labeled the formation of a parallel authority as an act of hostility.

In response, Sudan recalled its ambassador from Nairobi and is considering imposing restrictions on Kenyan imports.

Kenyan officials, however, defended the country’s role, saying it remains committed to Sudan’s stability and is engaged in mediation efforts rather than taking sides in the conflict.

The United States has also condemned the RSF’s move to establish a parallel administration, warning that it risks further fragmenting Sudan. U.S. officials have called for a return to negotiations and emphasised that any political transition must be inclusive and led by Sudanese civilians.

Fighting in Sudan erupted nearly two years ago between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF following a power struggle between army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo.

The conflict has devastated the country, leaving thousands dead and displacing millions.

Diplomatic efforts to end the war have so far failed, with regional and international actors struggling to bring the warring sides to the negotiating table.

The AU, alongside the United Nations and neighboring countries, continues to push for a peaceful resolution to prevent Sudan’s further disintegration.

ligadwah@businessdayafrica.org