Sudan Declares UN Envoy Volker Perthes “Persona Non Grata”
The Sudanese government has officially declared Volker Perthes, the United Nations envoy, as “persona non grata” after accusations from the army chief that he contributed to the country’s civil conflict and demanded his removal from his position. Military and Islamist-backed protests have been targeting Perthes and the UN mission he leads in war-torn Sudan since late last year, condemning perceived foreign interference.
General Al-Burhan Blames Perthes for Escalating Conflict
In a letter to the UN last month, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudan’s de facto leader, held the envoy responsible for exacerbating the fighting between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by Commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. Despite criticisms aimed at both warring parties and efforts to broker a humanitarian ceasefire, UN Chief Antonio Guterres has consistently defended Perthes.
Sudanese Government’s Announcement and Perthes’ Whereabouts
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Sudan issued a statement declaring Volker Perthes as “persona non grata” effective immediately and notified the UN Secretary-General accordingly. Meanwhile, Perthes was in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Thursday, engaged in diplomatic talks, as reported by the UN mission’s Twitter account.
Uncertain Future for the UN Mission in Sudan
The Security Council’s recent decision to extend the mandate of the UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS) for only six months emphasized the uncertain status of the UN in Sudan. UNITAMS was established in June 2020 to support Sudan’s democratic transition, but the coup led by Burhan and Daglo disrupted the country’s path to civilian rule. The ongoing conflict between the army and the RSF has resulted in a spiraling humanitarian crisis, displacing over 1.2 million people and leaving millions in need of aid.
Army’s Call for Reinforcements Amidst Escalating Conflict
As the fighting continues and truces are repeatedly violated, the Sudanese army seeks to bolster its ranks by calling upon army pensioners and reservists to join command units. The conflict has led to severe consequences, including a lack of essential supplies, such as food and water, in affected areas. Approximately 25 million people, over half of Sudan’s population, require urgent aid and protection in a country already plagued by poverty. Perthes, who has adamantly defended the UN against accusations of fueling the conflict, has attributed responsibility to the two generals engaged in war.
SOURCE: Ref – Text Wires
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