Sudan unveils political roadmap for post-war phase until 'fair' general polls

By Adel Abdelrheem and Rania Abu Shamala

KHARTOUM (AA) - Sudan announced a political roadmap for the post-war phase on Sunday, with the goal of resuming national political dialogue, establishing transactional government, and amending the constitution to hold general elections in the country to achieve long-term peace.

"The successes achieved by the armed forces, joint forces, and supporting units in tightening the grip on the rebels,” the Sudanese Foreign Ministry said in a statement referring to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Following these advances, "state leadership, after extensive consultations with national and societal forces, has proposed a roadmap to prepare for the post-war phase, resume the comprehensive political process, and ultimately hold free and fair general elections," the statement added.

The announcement comes as the Sudanese army has made significant progress, gaining control over most areas of Al-Jazira and Khartoum states.

The roadmap includes several key points. It calls for “launching a comprehensive national dialogue that brings together all political and societal forces, welcoming those who take a national stance, withdraw their support for the aggressors, and align with the national cause.”

It also proposes “the formation of a government composed of independent national experts to resume transitional tasks and assist the state in overcoming the aftermath of the war.”

Additionally, the roadmap outlines “necessary amendments to the constitutional document, which would be approved by national and societal forces before selecting a civilian prime minister to lead the executive branch without interference.”

In the wake of popular protests that led to the removal of President Omar al-Bashir, Sudan embarked on a transitional period meant to lead to a civilian government through free and fair elections. A constitutional document was signed between the military council, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Forces of Freedom and Change coalition to manage the transition.

However, this transition was abruptly interrupted when Burhan, as head of the Sovereignty Council and army commander, imposed exceptional measures on Oct. 25, 2021, dissolving the transitional government, arresting ministers and politicians, declaring a state of emergency, and dismissing governors.

Following these actions, he appointed a government led by Osman Hussein.

The roadmap also sets conditions for any negotiations with the rebels, requiring the laying down of arms and the evacuation of civilian sites.

Furthermore, it rejects any calls for a ceasefire unless the siege on El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, is lifted. Any ceasefire, according to the statement, must be followed by the withdrawal of rebel forces from Khartoum, West Kordofan, and the Darfur states.