The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has condemned in the strongest terms the escalating violence and reported atrocities committed in El Fasher, the capital of Sudan’s North Darfur region, following its takeover by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
In a statement issued from Addis Ababa, the AU Chairperson expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation, citing grave violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, including alleged war crimes and ethnically targeted killings of civilians.
He reminded all parties to the conflict of their obligations under international law to protect civilians and warned that perpetrators of such heinous acts will be held accountable.
“The African Union condemns in the strongest terms the atrocities unfolding in El Faster,” the statement read in part. “All parties must respect international humanitarian law and immediately cease hostilities.”
Youssouf called for the opening of humanitarian corridors to facilitate the delivery of life-saving aid to affected communities and urged an immediate cessation of hostilities.
He emphasised that there can be no military solution to Sudan’s crisis and appealed for a peaceful, inclusive political dialogue among all stakeholders.
Reaffirming the AU’s support for Sudan’s sovereignty and unity, the Chairperson pledged the Union’s continued solidarity with the people of Sudan and its commitment to their aspirations for peace, democracy, and national reconciliation.
The condemnation follows weeks of intensified fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF in El Faster, which has led to rising civilian casualties and worsening humanitarian conditions in the region.