Cairo Coalition Rejects El Burhan Dialogue Proposal

A coalition of Sudanese political groups known as the Cairo Declaration forces has formally rejected a national dialogue proposal put forward by General Abdelfattah El Burhan, the head of the Sovereignty Council. In a statement issued following a meeting in Cairo, the coalition argued that the initiative would serve to legitimize a reality constructed by war rather than resolve it. They characterized the move as an attempt to entrench the authority of the de facto regime rather than facilitate a genuine transition toward peace.

The group noted that while El Burhan’s recent rhetoric has shifted from military slogans to diplomatic language, the substance of the proposal lacks the necessary depth for a credible political process. According to the coalition, Sudan requires serious negotiations focused primarily on ending the active hostilities. They emphasized that any settlement must first halt the fighting before addressing broader structural reforms, including the professionalization of the military and the establishment of a civilian authority with popular legitimacy.

Defining the Parameters of Inclusive Dialogue

The coalition outlined specific criteria for a viable political process, insisting that it must be owned and led by Sudanese citizens rather than dictated by external actors or military factions. They called for an inclusive framework that reflects the country's political, social, and geographical diversity. However, this inclusion is conditional; the group stated that participation should be limited to forces committed to peace, democracy, and civilian rule. Entities accused of militarizing society or supporting the continuation of the conflict are to be excluded from the process.

In its position paper, the group urged the international community, particularly the Quintet mechanism, to support Sudanese political will without directing the outcome. The proposed roadmap includes addressing the roots of the crisis, reforming state and security institutions, and implementing transitional justice. The coalition stressed that the goal is not a temporary settlement to consolidate existing power, but a comprehensive restructuring of the state based on a new social contract where political differences are managed democratically.

Accountability Amidst Deepening Humanitarian Crisis

Addressing the consequences of the war, which began in April 2023, the coalition held both sides responsible for violations and crimes against civilians. They highlighted the destruction of cities, infrastructure, and public services, which has weakened the social fabric and deepened poverty. The group reaffirmed its commitment to the principle of no impunity, stating that justice cannot be postponed or used as a bargaining chip in negotiations. They called for investigations by the UN Human Rights Council and the Security Council to prioritize civilian protection and ensure that those responsible for atrocities are held accountable regardless of their affiliation.

The humanitarian situation is described as one of the gravest in Sudan’s modern history, with intensified displacement and rising risks of famine in conflict-affected areas. The coalition welcomed a recent joint statement by anti-war forces as a step toward unifying the civilian political landscape. They argued that civilian unity is essential to ending the war and preventing its recurrence. According to the GN auto geopolitics/africa: Sudan conflict report, the immediate priority remains the cessation of hostilities to alleviate the suffering of the population and create the conditions necessary for a democratic transition.