The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf “strongly” condemned the recent deadly drone attacks in Sudan and the Abyei Area, the AU said in a statement on Thursday.
About 80 people were reportedly killed in Al-Dibab, West Kordofan, over the weekend including 23 in Nyala, South Darfurand at least three children in Khartoum on 19 October.
He condemned the intolerable price civilian populations continue to pay through the loss of loved ones, displacement, and destruction of livelihoods and disruption of access to food, healthcare and essential services.
Expressing solidarity with the affected communities, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
The chairperson calls on all parties to halt attacks affecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, protect humanitarian and medical personnel, and allow safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian assistance, in accordance with applicable international law, including international humanitarian law.
Reaffirming respect for Sudan’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, Youssouf called on all parties to refrain from actions that fuel the conflict, risk dividing the country or threaten neighboring states.
The Chairperson reaffirmed the AU’s support for ongoing regional and international mediation efforts and urged coordinated action towards an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and an inclusive Sudanese-led political process.
MG/as/APA