Head of Sudan's Sovereign Council holds talks with UN, ICC leaders in New York

By Ahmed Satti

NEW YORK (AA) – Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the Sovereign Council of Sudan, met UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Karim Khan on Saturday in New York.

Burhan, in his meeting with Guterres, said the government is ready to collaborate with the UN on all matters to alleviate the suffering of citizens.

He emphasized the need for accountability for crimes committed by rebel forces, referring to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) involved in fighting with the military.

- ‘UN will intensify its efforts’ in Sudan

"The UN will intensify its efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people and contribute to the efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in a manner that preserves the existence of the state and its institutions," said Guterres.

In his meeting with Khan, discussions revolved around "crimes committed by RSF militias in the capital Khartoum, Darfur, and other regions of Sudan."

Burhan emphasized his willingness to ensure justice for victims, while Khan pointed out that investigations would cover certain areas in Chad and Sudan.

- Conflicts between military, RSF

Clashes between the military and the RSF began April 15.

The fighting has resulted in the deaths of at least 5,000 people, more than 12,000 injured and over 5 million displaced, according to the UN.

Burhan dissolved the RSF on Sept. 6, accusing it of rebelling against the state, committing serious violations against citizens and intentionally sabotaging the country's infrastructure.

Burhan urged the international community to designate the RSF, which has been in conflict with the military since April, a "terrorist group."