AU suspends Sudan amid continued military rule

Due to the ongoing political unrest in Sudan, the African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) has suspended Sudan from all AU activities, underscoring that only a civilian-led government can restore the country to full membership.

This decision, made during the PSC’s 854th meeting, signals the AU’s growing impatience with Sudan’s ruling Transitional Military Council (TMC) and its failure to transfer power to civilian authorities despite repeated AU directives.

“The AU cannot stand by while the people of Sudan continue to suffer under military rule,” declared H.E. Ambassador Dr. Brima Patrick Kapuwa, Chair of the PSC for June 2019. “We are demanding an immediate end to military dominance and a swift move towards civilian governance.” He further emphasized that the AU would “not hesitate to impose punitive measures” on individuals or groups obstructing this transition.

Also Read: Botswana welcomes a new era as Duma Boko is sworn in as president

The PSC has issued several communiqués since April 2019, each urging the TMC to engage in constructive dialogue with Sudanese stakeholders. However, the Council expressed frustration over “the lack of progress towards the establishment of a civilian-led Transitional Authority,” noting that the military’s grip on power has persisted far beyond the initial 60-day extension. The AU’s message was clear: the time for military control has ended, and Sudan’s path forward must be civilian-led.

In his remarks, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the AU Commission, reinforced the urgency of the Council’s decision. “The military’s ongoing refusal to share power is both unacceptable and a violation of Sudan’s democratic aspirations,” he stated, adding, “The people of Sudan have the right to determine their future without interference from armed factions.”

The PSC also condemned the recent violence that led to civilian casualties, particularly during the protests on June 3, 2019. “We deplore the loss of innocent lives,” said Ambassador Smail Chergui, Commissioner for Peace and Security, stressing the need for an “impartial investigation” into the events and vowing that those responsible would face justice. He added, “The Sudanese military and security forces must ensure the full protection of civilians and uphold human rights.”

The suspension of Sudan from AU activities comes with a stern warning. “If the Transitional Military Council fails to hand over power, we are prepared to take further measures, including targeted sanctions against those undermining the democratic process,” said Ambassador Kapuwa. He concluded with a call for all Sudanese stakeholders to resume negotiations without preconditions, stating, “Only through dialogue and cooperation can Sudan move towards peace, stability, and the civilian-led government its people have fought for.”

The AU’s decision to suspend Sudan marks is borne out of the step in pressuring the TMC to relinquish power and adhere to the will of the Sudanese people.