The African Union’s Peace and Security Council issued a strongly worded statement at the conclusion of its emergency session in Addis Ababa, convened to discuss the alarming developments in Sudan—particularly the atrocities committed in the city of El Fasher following its seizure by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The council expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and what it described as an “unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe” affecting civilians trapped in the besieged city since May 2024.
It noted that residents had been deprived of food and essential supplies throughout the siege, in clear violation of international humanitarian law.
The council condemned the abuses and crimes committed by the RSF against civilians, urging its commander to strictly comply with international humanitarian and human rights law.
It demanded an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors, warning that perpetrators of such crimes would be held accountable.
The council also tasked the AU Commission with monitoring violations across Sudan and presenting a civilian protection plan and detailed report within three weeks.
It further denounced external interference fueling the war in Sudan, calling such actions a blatant violation of AU and UN Security Council resolutions—particularly Resolution 2750 (2024). The AU threatened to sanction any foreign actors providing financial, military, or political support to the warring parties, directing its sanctions committee and African security bodies to identify those entities within three weeks.
The council rejected the RSF’s announcement of forming a “parallel government,” urging the international community not to recognize it under any circumstances. It reaffirmed that there is no military solution to the conflict, emphasizing that only an inclusive Sudanese-led political process could pave the way to a democratic civilian transition.
The AU Chairperson was instructed to engage urgently with the presidential committee on Sudan, led by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, to facilitate negotiations between the army and the RSF, including preparations for a special African summit on Sudan.
The council also directed the UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide to undertake an urgent field visit to Sudan and submit a report within three weeks.
In conclusion, the council reaffirmed the AU’s commitment to accompany the Sudanese people toward comprehensive peace, stability, and sustainable development, pledging to remain “actively seized of the situation until its resolution.”
