Sudanese anti-war political and civil groups have rejected the African Union's endorsement of a dialogue initiative proposed by Sovereignty Council President Abdelfattah El Burhan. In a memorandum filed September 2 with the AU's peace organs, they warned the process could legitimise military rule and deepen Sudan's division.
The groups said the AU's August 31 support contradicted its own stated position that a ceasefire must come before any political process. They also criticised the AU for backing an initiative from El Burhan, whose military coup in October 2021 resulted in Sudan's suspension from AU activities.
The memorandum argued that dialogue held in territory controlled by one side of the conflict, without a prior ceasefire or broad participation, could entrench the country's political and territorial fragmentation. The groups called for the humanitarian crisis and cessation of hostilities to remain at the centre of any political process.
The AU Commission said its support was based on the need for an inclusive process involving Sudanese civil, political and societal actors. It said the dialogue should ultimately lead to a united, sovereign Sudan governed by legitimate civilian institutions.
Othman Mirghani, spokesman for the Sudanese-Sudanese Dialogue Committee, told Radio Dabanga that regional backing could help secure wider international support. He said the initiative sought direct dialogue among Sudanese stakeholders inside the country.
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and allied groups also rejected the AU endorsement, describing it as bias towards the army. Their spokesperson Ahmed Tagad Lisan said El Burhan had called for the dialogue, formed its preparatory committee and determined its agenda and venue, giving the military's leadership undue influence.
