Conflict in Sudan: UN wants to mediate after coup

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Protest march against the military dictatorship: "Time for an end to violence"

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MOHAMED NURELDIN ABDALLAH / REUTERS

The United Nations started an attempt to mediate a solution to the political crisis in the north-east African Sudan.

In a statement published on Saturday by the UN special envoy to Sudan, Volker Perthes, it is said that the process initiated by the United Nations aims to support the Sudanese parties in their search for a sustainable path to peace and democracy.

"It is time to end the violence and begin a constructive process," said Perthes.

According to his own statements, Perthes wants to invite not only the military and representatives of political parties, but also supporters of the protest movement in the country and women's activists, to the talks under the auspices of the UN.

In this way, "the current crisis should be ended and the way to lasting democracy and peace" found.

Sudan's Supreme General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan declared a state of emergency in October and deposed the government that was supposed to lead the transition to democratic elections after the overthrow of long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir in April 2019.

After pressure from home and abroad, the ousted head of government Abdullah Hamdok was reinstated in November and, according to an agreement with the military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, was allowed to form a cabinet with civilian representatives.

Many dead and injured since the protests began

However, as the leader of the Sovereign Council, Al-Burhan headed the new interim government together with Hamdok.

Since then there have been repeated protests against the continued participation of the military in the government.

Hamdok, accused of treason by protesters, resigned at the turn of the year.

He stressed that he was unable to keep his promise to prevent a political catastrophe in the country.

According to doctors, at least 60 people have been killed and hundreds injured since the protests began.

sol / dpa / AFP