The leader of Sudan's Hope Government addressed the United Nations Security Council, detailing the country's entry into the fourth year of ongoing conflict. He stated that the war began on April 13, 2023, when the Rapid Support Forces militia violated army traditions and laws by surrounding the airport in the northern Sudanese city of Merowe. These actions were allegedly part of a broader regional conspiracy to plunder Sudan's resources and seize control of its national decision-making, supported by external actors.
The Hope Government's peace initiative calls for a comprehensive ceasefire under joint supervision by international and regional institutions, the assembly of rebel militias in designated locations, facilitation of voluntary return for displaced persons and refugees, and humanitarian aid delivery. The initiative also proposes a transitional justice model balancing forgiveness and reconciliation while ensuring no impunity for those involved in war crimes, alongside a political track aimed at achieving an elected government through Sudanese-Sudanese dialogue.
Despite these efforts, the Sudanese government criticizes international meetings such as the recent Berlin conference, which discussed Sudan without its representation or that of key civilian stakeholders, rendering their outcomes allegedly ineffective and destined for archives. The government remains open to serious peace that preserves Sudan's unity and army dignity, but only if aggressors cease harm, admit errors, and contribute to reconstruction.
Amid the war, Sudan has reported certain economic improvements. Inflation has declined from 359% in 2021 to around 55% in February 2024, while gold production has increased to approximately 70 tonnes annually. Reconstruction efforts in the capital Khartoum have begun, with nine UN agencies and numerous diplomatic missions returning to the city, signaling a tentative stabilization in government-controlled areas.
The government is developing an economic recovery matrix in consultation with business leaders, organizations, and consumers, prioritizing human development under the slogan 'The Sudanese person first.' Key focuses include education reform, healthcare system improvements (with 80% of war-affected medical facilities restored), and strengthening state institutions. The Sudanese army, described as at its peak strength, has liberated large areas from rebel militias, continuing a campaign until peace or deterrence is achieved.
Regional support from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, and Kuwait in providing humanitarian aid and backing peace efforts has been acknowledged. The government emphasizes that its alliances are based on shared interests, with current priorities centered on liberating territory and people from rebel forces, aiming for either a just peace or a war that deters aggressors and their supporters.
Source: www.aljazeera.com