Kenya’s foreign ministry has expressed its commitment to supporting peace efforts in Sudan, despite accusations from Khartoum of facilitating hostility by hosting the Rapid Support Forces’ meeting. As violence in Sudan escalates, claims of foreign policy missteps raise concerns about international isolation for Kenya. Regional calls for neutrality in negotiations underscore the critical need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Kenya’s foreign ministry asserted its readiness to support peace initiatives in Sudan following Khartoum’s accusations of hosting a meeting for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as an act of hostility. The ministry emphasized Kenya’s history of facilitating dialogues untainted by ulterior motives, especially amidst the ongoing challenges faced by Sudanese refugees in Kenya.
The Sudanese government condemned Kenya’s meeting with the RSF, which occurred as the paramilitary group planned to announce a rival government. RSF Deputy Commander Abdel-Rahim Hamdan Dagalo led the delegation during the meeting held at Nairobi’s Kenyatta International Conference Center.
Critics, such as Macharia Munene, professor of international relations at the United States International University-Africa, voiced concerns over potential international ramifications for Kenya’s foreign policy, describing it as a “one man show” driven by President William Ruto’s relationship with RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Munene suggests this could lead to Kenya’s isolation on the global stage.
The conflict in Sudan between the military and RSF has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, resulting in over 24,000 deaths and displacing approximately 14 million individuals. An estimated 3.2 million Sudanese have sought refuge in neighboring countries amidst escalating violence.
Haydar Abdul Karim, a Sudanese peace activist in Kenya, has called for collective regional efforts to remain neutral, urging nations to foster negotiations between the conflicting parties rather than support one faction over another. His plea highlights the necessity for diplomacy in resolving the ongoing turmoil in Sudan.
In conclusion, Kenya faces scrutiny regarding its diplomatic interactions with the RSF amid allegations from Sudan of violating sovereignty. The situation reflects the complex dynamics of regional politics and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Sudan. Continued support for dialogue and the prioritization of humanitarian concerns are essential for stability in the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
