Pan-African Parliament President Advocates for Sanctions to Address Sudan Conflict
In a pivotal session held during the Second Ordinary Session of the Sixth Parliament of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) on May 26, African Parliamentarians engaged in a two-day consultation on conflict resolution in Sudan [VIDEO] and other affected regions on the continent.
The President of the Continental Parliament, Hon. Chief Fortune Charumbira of Zimbabwe, passionately emphasized the urgent need for the African Union (AU) to unite and devise African-led solutions to address the ongoing crisis in Sudan. He echoed Kenyan President William Ruto’s keynote address at the same session [VIDEO], calling for proactive measures to demonstrate Africa’s capacity to achieve peace and security independently.
President Charumbira asserted, “We should not be silent on such matters, and if possible, we should be in a position to sanction any member state found violating and abusing human rights, women, and children.” His call for accountability and protection of vulnerable populations resonated strongly during the consultation.
During the session, Parliamentarians condemned the Sudanese conflict, which began on 15 April 2023 and has resulted in thousands dead or unaccounted for. Millions have displaced and seeking refuge in neighbouring countries such as Egypt, Chad, Ethiopia, and South Sudan. Female Parliamentarians were unanimous in voicing their concerns, highlighting the dire situation’s direct violation of human rights, with women and children being the most affected. They called on the Pan-African Parliament to play a crucial role in ensuring the prompt establishment of a peace deal.
President Charumbira’s call for sanctions can be regarded as challenge to African leaders to display their commitment safeguard human rights and promote peace and security within the troubled region. The hard-line recommendation to hold accountable those violating human rights in the Sudan conflict, if adopted, can possibly set a robust precedent in pursuit of justice and stability on the continent.
