Tensions rise between authorities in Port Sudan and Kenya over peace government

Sudanese-Kenyan relations are witnessing increasing tension after Khartoum accused Nairobi of supporting rebel militias, which prompted Sudan to recall its ambassador to Kenya for consultations. This move comes on the eve of an expected announcement of a peace government, raising questions about the repercussions of this crisis on regional stability.

Sudanese Ambassador Recall and Reactions

Port Sudan decided to recall its ambassador to Nairobi in protest against Kenya hosting "meetings of the rebel militia and its allies." The Sudanese Minister of Interior, Lieutenant General of Police Khalil Pasha Sayrin, also condemned the Kenyan government's position, considering it an interference in Sudan's internal affairs and a threat to the country's unity. He added that this move contradicts the principles of the African Union and the United Nations Charter.

In an official statement, the authorities in Port Sudan considered Kenya's hosting of the meeting as a "hostile act", especially since it precedes the planned announcement of the peace government. For its part, the Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied any hostile intentions, stressing that its country hosts many Sudanese refugees and has a long history of facilitating dialogue.

Formation of the peace government and international warnings

Opposition political forces are preparing to announce a government called the peace government in the areas under their control. It was scheduled to be announced on Friday (February 21), amidst domestic and international welcome for this step.

The United Nations stressed the importance of this initiative in achieving political stability and halting the security deterioration in Sudan. The Arab League also expressed its support for any steps aimed at achieving peace and stability in the country.

Kenya defends its position and Khartoum accuses it of commercial interests

In response to the Sudanese protest, the Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that hosting these meetings comes within the framework of its role as a peace mediator. It indicated that its country provides an unbiased platform for the parties to the conflict to seek political solutions.

For its part, the authorities in Port Sudan accused Kenyan President William Ruto of pursuing his commercial and personal interests through his relations with regional militia sponsors, in reference to the UAE, which in turn faces accusations of supporting some factions, which Abu Dhabi denies. Kenya and the UAE recently signed an economic agreement that Nairobi described as "historic".

Constitutional amendments to strengthen civilian government control

In a related context, Sudan amended the transitional constitution to strengthen civilian government control, as any references to the army as a dominant body were removed, in a move that reflects the new leadership's intention to build a democratic civil state. These amendments come at a time when the head of the transitional government is preparing to form a government that represents the various components of Sudanese society.

The ongoing conflict between the army and armed factions since April 2023 has led to a severe humanitarian crisis and deep internal divisions, amid faltering diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. With the international community continuing to support the peace government, attention is turning to the next steps to achieve a sustainable political transition in Sudan.

Regional Implications and Continuation of the Crisis

This escalation puts Sudanese-Kenyan relations in a critical position, as this crisis may affect regional mediation efforts. The situation also raises questions about the ability of the international community to contain the repercussions of the Sudanese conflict, especially with the increasing support for the peace government and the Sudanese people’s aspirations for a more stable future.