GENEVA: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is scheduled to vote today to conclude the political mission in war-torn Sudan, responding to the acting foreign minister’s request earlier this month, citing the mission’s “disappointing” performance amid escalating conflict.
A conflict erupted on April 15 between the Sudanese army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, fueled by increasing tension over a plan to integrate forces as part of the transition from military rule to civilian democracy.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, describing the situation, stated, “You have two generals that completely disregard the interests of their population.” When questioned about whether it was a failure of the UN or the African Union, Guterres emphasized, “It’s time to call a spade a spade. This is the fault of those that sacrificed the interests of their people for a pure struggle for power.”
The draft resolution, set to be voted on by the council, terminates the mandate of the UN mission, UNITAMS, on Dec. 3, requiring it to wind down over the next three months. UNITAMS, established in June 2020, aimed to support Sudan during its transition to democratic rule.
The resolution acknowledges the importance of UN agencies and emphasizes the necessity of an orderly transition and liquidation of UNITAMS for the safety of UN personnel and the effective functioning of all UN operations. A UN country team providing humanitarian and development aid will remain in Sudan.
Amid worsening humanitarian conditions and escalating ethnic violence in Darfur, a senior UN official warned of “pure evil” violence against civilians in Sudan. Despite the political mission’s conclusion, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric emphasized the continued presence of humanitarian colleagues assisting those in dire need.
Last week, UN Secretary-General Guterres appointed veteran Algerian diplomat Ramtane Lamamra as his personal envoy for Sudan, encouraging all parties to cooperate with the envoy as per the draft Security Council resolution.
