Sunday April 16, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) - The Somali government has united with global powers in denouncing the intensifying military conflict in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan.
On Saturday night, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a statement urging all involved parties to cease hostilities, exercise utmost restraint, and engage in dialogue to resolve differences and preserve political stability and security.
Over the weekend, clashes between Sudan's military and the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group led to more than 50 civilian fatalities and nearly 600 injuries as the factions fought to control key locations, including the presidential palace, state television, and army headquarters, forcing residents to evade stray gunfire.
Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, released a statement on Saturday expressing deep concern about the political violence in Sudan.
Sudan's army warned civilians to stay inside as warplanes searched for paramilitary fighters.
"Any further escalation and violence will not solve the challenges facing the Republic of Sudan but only exacerbate them, especially during this month when the Sudanese people are observing the holy month of Ramadan. Therefore, immediately ceasing hostilities is imperative."
The Sudanese conflict stems from tensions over a proposed transition to civilian governance following the 2019 coup that removed former President Omar Hassan al-Bashir from power. Another coup in 2021 led to the ousting of the nation's civilian prime minister.
The RSF, Sudan's main paramilitary group, accused the army of executing a scheme by al-Bashir loyalists and attempting a coup themselves.
Prominent international players, such as the United States, Russia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Nations, the European Union, and the African Union, have also demanded an immediate cessation of violence.
