As Africa strives to achieve economic prosperity and ensure political stability, the frequent conflicts that outburst in various areas of the continent remain challenges that impede the progress of the continent to realize its development, stability and security aspirations.
Unfortunately, failure to address differences in a round table discussion in conjunction with the need to have mediators from outside of the continent has exacerbated the problem.
Hopefully, Ethiopia`s recent experience to settle differences in a peaceful manner has witnessed the notion “African solution for African problem” is being an attainable dictum; and it has disproved the wrong assumption of “African solution for African problem is unrealistic and unattainable”.
Indeed, Ethiopia`s commitment to settle differences in a round table discussion is part of its observance to continental organization`s role for peace; and determination to avoid skirmishes by all means for the sake of its citizens. This commitment and readiness for peace through peaceful discussion, and above all valuing African Union`s effort to peace resolution, has paved the way to achieve the aspired goal- sustaining peace and stability.
The recent violent conflict in Sudan`s capital Khartoum between the two main factions: the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF and the paramilitary force- Rapid Support Forces, has resulted in incalculable damages and displacement of civilians.
So far, an attempt to negotiate with the conflicting parties has not borne fruits as all ceasefire agreements failed repeatedly. This repeated violation of ceasefire has witnessed how the two warring parties are unwilling to settle differences in peaceful discussion. This is really unfortunate for the Sudanese people and for the entire region as well.
The talks that began in early May and produced a declaration of commitments to protecting civilians and two short- term ceasefire deals have repeatedly failed. Needless to say that ensuring sustainable peace is in the hands of the Sudan and its people. Thus, warring parties should resolve their differences in amicable way.
As noted by South Sudan Ambassador to Ethiopia, James Pita Morgan, “Sudanese parties should cooperate with African Union`s (AU) efforts in hammering out peace deals apart from upholding the humanitarian ceasefire. As Sudan is a member of IGAD, it is supposed to be resolved by IGAD and AU.”
Deploying the available peace deal opportunities and valuing the role the IGAD and African Union can play to sustain peace within the region and even the whole continent; the two parties should do their level best to return the situation to normalcy.
Most importantly, as a continental organization AU is the right institute to meditate and resolve African problems. In this regard, understanding each other’s perspective and work for the good of Sudanese people will ensure peace and stability.
Obviously, the conflict in Sudan is not only threatening country`s future but also it has a domino effect on regional peace and stability. In this regard, the conflicting parties should de-escalate the tension, return to the negotiation table and value continental and regional organizations. This includes cherishing the implementation of the African Union Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan (the AU Roadmap).
The Ethiopian Herald June 1/2023
