Khartoum: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Sudan has issued a strong statement rejecting any engagements by African countries with the so-called “Sumoud” group or offering platforms for its activities. The Ministry emphasized its stance on evaluating Sudan’s relations with these countries, particularly based on their support for national legitimacy and alignment with the Sudanese people in what has been termed the Battle for Dignity.
According to Sudan News Agency, the Ministry is closely observing the activities of the “Sumoud” group, which it describes as a political arm linked to a regional supporter of a terrorist militia. The Ministry accuses the group of seeking political solutions for the militia after its military defeats and widespread rejection by the Sudanese populace due to severe atrocities and violations committed against them.
The statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that the group lacks popular support and represents only its members. It further stated that the group has been instrumental in creating a political climate leading to war by monopolizing civilian representation and excluding other forces during the transitional period. The Ministry accused the group of thwarting all efforts to initiate a comprehensive national dialogue, both before and after the outbreak of war.
Furthermore, the Ministry pointed to an agreement signed by the group with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in January 2024, which legitimized the establishment of a so-called parallel government and a civilian administration in areas occupied by the militia. The group allegedly declined participation in an African Union meeting in August 2024 for civilian political forces, preferring to monopolize representation and rejecting the African Union’s positive approaches towards Sudan.
The Ministry’s statement also criticized the group’s defense of the militia’s regional sponsor, accusing it of being a crucial factor in the ongoing conflict.