The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk has expressed alarm at the current tense situation in effort to restore Sudanese Civilian-led Government.
In a statement released from his office, the Human Rights Chief renewed his plea to all sides to set aside entrenched positions and personal interests, to focus on the common interests of the people by redoubling efforts towards restoration of a civilian-led Government.
Turk who had said during his visit to Sudan in November that the country is at a decisive juncture, added that much work has been done and many positive steps taken towards the signature of a final agreement
He stressed that all efforts must now go to get the political transition back on the right path, urging all sides to work together to overcome obstacles on security sector reform and avoid any further delays in the signing of the political agreement.
In December last year, a Political Framework Agreement was signed between civilian leaders and the military in Sudan, as a first step towards a political agreement and the restoration of a civilian-led Government.
A final political agreement was expected to be signed on 1 April, then postponed to 6 April, but it remains pending as disagreements persist regarding key security and military reforms.
The High Commissioner also stressed the need to ensure that the strong human rights commitments set out in the Political Framework Agreement remain central to the final political agreement, including in relation to credible and inclusive transitional justice and accountability processes.
He called on non-signatories to the Political Framework Agreement to join the political process, stressing the need for a more inclusive process that will address the concerns of all sectors of society.
Türk urged authorities and all sides to take measures to de-escalate tensions and to refrain from violence. “I witnessed first-hand the fervent, awe-inspiring determination of the people of Sudan.
“Particularly young people and women – to stand up for human rights, an inclusive, civilian-led Government, accountability and justice.
“I urge the authorities to ensure that the rights of the people to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are fully respected.
“Security forces are clearly instructed to respond to demonstrations in line with human rights laws and standards. We must not see a repeat of the use of unnecessary, disproportionate force”, the High Commissioner said.
He said the UN Joint Human Rights Office in Sudan will continue monitoring and reporting on the human rights situation in the country, and stands ready to strengthen support to an incoming civilian Government.
It was reported that Sudanese leaders have again postponed the signing of a final agreement to re-establish a civilian government as differences within military factions intensify.
Sudan has been in political crisis since October 2021, when the army overthrew a civilian government that ousted long-serving leader Omar al Bashir in 2019. Violent protests followed, hundreds of people were killed and many more injured over the last one year and a half.
