Sudan's return to IGAD under discussion, envoy confirms

Sudan's potential return to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is now "on the table," according to IGAD envoy Lawrence Korbandy, who revealed that talks with both military and civilian factions are ongoing.

Sudan froze its membership in January 2024, citing perceived bias, particularly from Kenya and Ethiopia.

Speaking to the Sudan Tribune, Korbandy clarified that Khartoum currently does not consider itself bound by IGAD's decisions on Sudanese affairs.

However, he emphasised that communication channels remain open and active.

"We are in contact with all Sudanese parties—military and civilian. The possibility of Sudan rejoining IGAD is under discussion, and we've held several deliberations on this matter," Korbandy said.

He also confirmed that recent international meetings involving envoys focused on coordination, including discussions on convening direct talks between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Among the other items on the table is the proposal to deploy forces into Sudan.

Korbandy acknowledged that consultations are ongoing and that any draft proposal on deployment is still in early stages and "requires further development."

Sudan's civil war has unleashed a catastrophic convergence of violence, hunger, mass displacement, and disease.

Yet, the crisis has been largely eclipsed on the global stage by wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.

On the African continent, responses have also been muted.

While the African Union continues to call for a ceasefire in its official statements, concrete action remains limited, leaving Sudan's humanitarian crisis to deepen.

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