Signing of the Constitutional Charter in Nairobi: A Step Toward Restoring Civilian Rule in Sudan

In a pivotal move toward rebuilding Sudan on constitutional and civilian foundations, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their allies have signed a constitutional charter paving the way for the formation of a transitional government. This was confirmed by Ahmed Taqad Lissan, a member of the preparatory committee for the Founding Sudan Coalition, who stated that the signing took place in Nairobi last night, in the presence of political forces and armed groups affiliated with the coalition.

The Transitional Constitution: A Framework for Political Resolution

The newly signed constitutional charter represents a significant step toward ending Sudan’s political vacuum and establishing a civilian-led transition based on democracy and justice. This initiative comes in response to the urgent need for a political solution to the ongoing war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF, which erupted in April 2023 due to disagreements over the integration of paramilitary forces into the national army as part of broader security sector reforms.

The transitional constitution aims to restructure governance, ensuring a system that reflects the aspirations of the Sudanese people for freedom, democracy, and stability while aligning with international and regional commitments to safeguarding Sudan’s unity and sovereignty.

The Sudanese Government Rejects the Move

In contrast, the Sudanese government has condemned the Nairobi meeting, asserting that Kenya’s hosting of the signing constitutes interference in Sudan’s internal affairs and encourages the fragmentation of African nations. The government reiterated its commitment to an inclusive Sudanese-led dialogue as the only legitimate path to resolving the crisis and warned against any attempts to establish a parallel political entity outside the framework of national legitimacy.

An Unprecedented Humanitarian Crisis

As the conflict continues, Sudan is experiencing one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. The war has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands and the displacement of over 12 million people, leading to severe deterioration in living conditions and essential services. Observers emphasize that any political initiative aimed at ending the violence and establishing a stable civilian government would be welcomed by the international and regional community.

The Future: Political Resolution or Continued Conflict?

The signing of the constitutional charter in Nairobi marks a turning point in Sudan’s political landscape. While civilian and military factions push for a return to transitional governance, the key challenge remains achieving a comprehensive national consensus that includes all stakeholders, bringing an end to the war and paving the way for a democratic and stable civilian state.

With these developments unfolding, the responsibility now lies with Sudanese political and military actors to engage in negotiations and work toward a lasting peace that restores Sudan’s stability and unity, free from divisions that threaten its future.