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The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Secretary, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, called an emergency virtual closed meeting of the member Heads of State and Government to discuss the best way to de-escalate the situation and restore calm in Sudan after fighting between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) erupted.

The heads of state expressed deep concerns on the current situation and immediately called for a cessation of hostilities between the two sides.

In a statement to members attending the meeting, President Museveni condemned the misuse of force in a situation that undermines all progress made through dialogue over the last many months.

“We cannot keep papering over mistakes of unprincipled politics year after year. An unconditional and immediate cessation of hostilities to stop the tragedy and mockery of Africa is of utmost importance”, said the President.

The president went on to say that, barring any other unlawful intent to sow unrest, it is possible to determine scientifically how long it will take to implement the fusion of rival factions into the National Army by taking into account well-known and/or generally accepted criteria like personnel age, health, education, and training.

Regarding the issue of violence occurring in populated areas, the president said it is reckless and needs to end right away since it burdens the populace and the nation’s future.

The people of Sudan, not either of the combatants, is who owns Sudan, President Museveni informed the delegates. Elections should return the decision-making authority for political disputes and governing to the people.

The meeting was attended by Presidents William Ruto (Kenya), Salva Kiir (South Sudan), Hassan Sheikh Mohamud(Somalia), Ismail Omar Guelleh(Djibouti) and chaired by the Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Dr Workneh Gebeyehu.

A joint communique on the outcomes of the meeting will be issued by close of business, Monday 17th April 2023.