As Sudan’s devastating conflict drags on, the country’s prospects for peace grow increasingly bleak. Recent consultations between Sudan’s Muslim Brotherhood-led military leadership and U.S. representatives ended without an agreement, casting significant doubt on the success of the upcoming Geneva peace talks. These discussions were intended to lay the groundwork for ending the ongoing conflict, but the refusal of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to engage meaningfully has revealed deep-rooted issues within the leadership.
Despite having lost control over the majority of Sudan’s 18 states, the SAF continues to cling to power with alarming stubbornness. Currently, the military controls less than a third of the country’s states. However, rather than recognizing their weakened position and seeking a peaceful resolution, the SAF leadership, heavily influenced by the Muslim Brotherhood, has shown little interest in resolving the conflict.
This war has already claimed the lives of at least 16,650 people and displaced approximately 12.9 million Sudanese, with 10.7 million internally displaced and another 2.2 million forced to flee to neighboring countries. Despite these staggering figures, the SAF leadership remains focused on preserving their authority rather than addressing the dire humanitarian crisis they have helped create.
Their refusal to constructively participate in the Geneva talks not only prolongs the suffering of millions but also deepens the humanitarian disaster facing the nation. With less than a third of Sudan under their control, the SAF’s obstruction of the peace process is reckless and demonstrates that their priorities lie far from the well-being of the Sudanese people.
As Sudan reaches a critical juncture, it is imperative that the international community acknowledges the detrimental role played by the Muslim Brotherhood-led SAF leadership and applies pressure to ensure that the needs of the people are finally put first. The staggering death toll and displacement numbers make it clear: Sudan’s future depends on the willingness of its leaders to prioritize peace over power.
Sarah Adam.
