SA calls for Sudan to return to negotiation table
The South African government has called for an end to the conflict in Sudan, in which dozens of civilians have been killed.
Fighting in the northern African country erupted after weeks of tension between military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, paramilitary commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, over the planned integration of Daglo's Rapid Support Forces into the regular army.
"Government has noted with concern and strongly condemns the fighting that has erupted this morning in several parts of Khartoum, and other areas outside the capital between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces," says spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation Clayson Monyela.
"South Africa appeals to the different factions of the Sudanese army to immediately cease all fighting, spare the Sudanese people any further violence during this holy month of Ramadan and immediately return to the negotiation table, to agree on a sustainable military and security sector reform programme.
"The situation in Sudan is disturbing as it affects ordinary people who have suffered from instability in the country over a prolonged period.
"South Africa joins the AU, and the UN Secretary-General António Guterres in their call on the parties to return to the negotiating table and continue their dialogue with the aim of transitioning the country to a civilian-led government.
The Arab League, following a request by Egypt and Saudi Arabia, is scheduled to hold an urgent meeting Sunday to discuss the situation in Sudan.
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