IGAD to adopt dialogue in resolving Sudan conflict

President William Ruto with Ethiopia PM Abiy Ahmed, during the IGAD meeting in Sudan on July 10, 2023. [PCS, Standard]

The Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD) Quartet Group now commits to using dialogue as a form of conflict resolution between warring parties in Sudan.

In a statement released on Wednesday, September 6, the IGAD Quartet countries noted they use of dialogue will enhance lasting peace in the country.

"Heads of State and Government of the IGAD Quartet group of countries strongly condemn the ongoing war and call upon the warring parties to immediately halt all hostilities in Sudan."

"Further, the Quartet re-commits to delivering a face-to-face meeting between the warring parties," the statement read in part.

The Wednesday meeting which aimed at resolving the ongoing Sudan conflict was chaired by Kenya's President William Ruto, and attended by Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh, Salva Kiir (South Sudan), and Ethiopia PM Abiy Ahmed.

Additionally, the Heads of State agreed to cease the use of military forces to resolve the conflict, but rather adopt humanitarian access under a framework that comprehensively addresses the issues and embraces political dialogue.

This is the second time the four leaders are meeting to address the Sudan conflict.

Ruto mediated the session, and was joined by African Union Commission chairperson Moussa Faki, and IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu.

Despite being accused of 'favoritism' by Sudanese leaders, Ruto still expressed undeniable effort in mediating the issues affecting the conflict-hit nation.

In July, leaders in Sudan accused him of favoring the paramilitary forces battling the Sudanese army after proposing the deployment of a regional coalition of peacekeeping troops in Sudan to protect civilians and secure humanitarian corridors.

According to the Sudanese army leaders, the move was an "invasion."

This has however not stopped President Ruto from trying to mediate and call out the involved parties.

The dialogue is set to start soon.