Kenya affirms its commitment to supporting peace in Sudan amid accusations of sovereignty infringement by Sudan for hosting an RSF meeting. Sudan’s government labeled this move as hostile, especially before a significant RSF announcement. Experts caution Kenya about potential international isolation due to its foreign policy decisions, as the conflict in Sudan escalates with alarming civilian casualties. Regional stability hinges on neutral dialogue efforts among conflicting factions.
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated its readiness to support peace initiatives in Sudan following accusations from the Sudanese government of sovereignty violations. These accusations arise from Kenya’s hosting of a meeting for Sudan’s paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), in Nairobi, a move Sudan labeled as an act of hostility, especially preceding the RSF’s intended announcement of a rival government.
The Sudanese delegation, led by RSF Deputy Commander Abdel-Rahim Hamdan Dagalo, convened at the Kenyatta International Conference Center in Nairobi. During this meeting, Dagalo indicated that a significant announcement would be forthcoming on Friday. Kenya’s foreign ministry clarified that the nation has historically provided assistance to Sudanese refugees and facilitated dialogue with no hidden agendas.
Academic Macharia Munene expressed concern that Kenya might face international isolation due to this perceived foreign policy misstep. He characterized Kenya’s foreign policy as increasingly centralized around President William Ruto’s personal ties with RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, without adequately addressing national interests. Although Hemedti did not attend the meeting, his connection to the Kenyan government has been noted.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has resulted in over 24,000 fatalities and displaced approximately 14 million individuals, or 30% of the population, as reported by the United Nations. The RSF, facing substantial losses against the military, has recently been implicated in civilian casualties, including infants, in escalating violence- both sides continue to assert their competing interests in the region.
In response to the conflict, Haydar Abdul Karim, a Sudanese peace activist residing in Kenya, emphasized the necessity for regional governments to adopt a neutral stance. He urged countries to avoid endorsing new political entities and instead concentrate on encouraging negotiations between the factions embroiled in conflict, advocating for impartiality rather than supporting one side over the other.
In light of recent tensions, Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to peace efforts concerning Sudan, despite accusations of sovereignty violations by Sudanese authorities. The situation remains complex, with significant humanitarian implications and ongoing conflict casualties. As regional governments navigate these challenges, fostering dialogue without partiality is imperative for a sustainable resolution.
Original Source: apnews.com
