Sudan: Sudanese Anti-War Forces Reject AU Backing for El Burhan Dialogue

What the report says

Sudanese anti-war political and civil forces have rejected the African Union’s support for a Sudanese dialogue initiative linked to Sovereignty Council President and army chief Lt Gen Abdelfattah El Burhan. In a memorandum submitted on 2 September to the AU Peace and Security Council and the AU Commission’s peace and security department, the groups said the endorsement could help legitimize military rule and worsen Sudan’s fragmentation.

According to Dabanga, the dispute centers on an AU statement issued on 31 August welcoming an initiative described as a Sudanese-led dialogue. The anti-war groups argued that the AU should instead uphold a ceasefire-first approach, with a humanitarian truce followed by an immediate and comprehensive halt to fighting before any political process begins. They also said any credible talks must be genuinely owned by Sudanese stakeholders, with the participants, agenda and timing agreed broadly, and with the humanitarian crisis and civilian protection at the center.

The memorandum further objected to any dialogue held in territory controlled by one side of the war without a ceasefire or broad participation. It urged the AU to clarify its position, remain neutral and coordinate with wider international mediation efforts. Dabanga also reported that the AU said it backed an inclusive process involving Sudanese civil, political and societal actors, aimed at a united Sudan with civilian institutions and a single national security structure.

Other actors cited by Dabanga, including the Sudan Founding Alliance aligned with the Rapid Support Forces, also criticized the AU position, saying it appeared to favor the army. The debate underscores how contested any political track remains while Sudan’s war continues and aid needs deepen.