President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni chaired a virtual meeting of the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council Heads of State and Government at State House Nakasero today.
President Museveni, currently the Chairperson of the African Union Peace and Security Council for June 2024, led discussions on the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The leaders explored ways to enhance coordinated efforts among regional and international partners to achieve peace and stability for the Sudanese people.
President Museveni pointed out that the war in Sudan stemmed from ideological mistakes made by the country’s leaders.
“It has been 70 years of continuous conflict in our neighboring country, largely due to mistakes we often discuss with Sudanese leaders. The first mistake was the politics of identity—Africans versus Arabs, and Muslims versus Christians. This divisive identity politics has perpetuated war for a long time, a problem seen in other parts of Africa, including Uganda,” he explained.
He highlighted a second mistake as resorting to force instead of dialogue.
“Another mistake is using force with unprepared and undisciplined personnel, armed by internal and external forces. This approach has worsened the catastrophe we see today. Even in times of war, it shouldn’t affect the entire population unless there are flaws in managing the conflict,” President Museveni noted.
“The war crimes we witness are a direct consequence of these mistakes. Therefore, I commend the Security Council and attending members urging Sudanese factions to cease hostilities, engage in dialogue, and let the Sudanese people choose their leaders through fair elections,” he added.
Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, stressed the urgency of achieving a ceasefire in Sudan.
“The African Union, through your council’s decisions, has engaged all conflict parties to facilitate peace efforts,” he stated.
He further noted the alarming displacement of at least 10 million people, emphasizing the critical need for immediate action to end the conflict.
Leaders also demanded that warring factions such as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) halt fighting and prioritize Sudan’s interests. They underscored that a military solution is not sustainable and only genuine dialogue can lead to a lasting resolution.
Moreover, leaders emphasized the protection of civilians in Sudan and requested the AU Commission, in collaboration with the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights, to investigate and propose measures for civilian protection.
The meeting also featured an address by a representative of the United Nations Secretary-General, H.E. Antonio Guterres.
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