Kenya Defends Role In Hosting Sudan Peace Talks Amid Criticism

Kenya has defended its role in hosting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudanese civilian groups for peace talks in Nairobi, saying the discussions align with its commitment to providing a neutral platform for conflict resolution in the region.

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, said that Sudanese groups have previously sought peace solutions in neighboring countries, making Kenya’s involvement neither new nor partisan.

“Indeed, in January 2024, parties and stakeholders of the Sudanese conflict met in a neighboring country to chart a way forward on inclusive dialogue and a return to civilian rule,” Mudavadi said.

He reaffirmed that the roadmap and proposed leadership discussions in Nairobi were consistent with Kenya’s role as a peace mediator and that the country remains committed to fostering dialogue among Sudanese factions.

Kenya’s statement comes in response to Sudan’s strong condemnation of the Nairobi peace talks. On Tuesday, February 18, 2024, Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Kenya of violating international law, the United Nations Charter, and the African Union’s Constitutive Act by hosting the discussions. Sudan also claimed that Kenya’s actions amounted to interference in its internal affairs and a violation of its sovereignty.

The Sudanese government alleged that by allowing RSF leaders to participate in the talks, Kenya was endorsing a group responsible for genocide, ethnic-based violence, and other atrocities. The statement further accused Kenya of breaking its own pledges not to allow hostile activities against Sudan on its soil.

Sudan vowed to take necessary measures to counter what it termed a hostile act and called on the international community to condemn Kenya’s role in the discussions.

Despite the backlash, Kenya has maintained that its engagement in Sudanese peace efforts aligns with its regional diplomatic commitments. President William Ruto has been actively involved in mediation efforts across East Africa, including South Sudan’s Tumaini Mediation Consensus, which seeks to bring lasting peace to the region.