10/18/2019 Sudan (International Christian Concern) – As Sudan and its government pursue development and reform, disparate rebel groups and insurgents, what might be considered to be the greatest threat to Sudan’s progression, continue to hinder the forward advancement of the state.
In light of this, the government has set a 6-month deadline to settle the qualms of those presently in rebellion against governmental authority. For the first time in their recent history, the Sudanese authorities have sat down to negotiate a peaceful compromise satisfactory to all parties. This dialogue is taking place in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, as South Sudan maintains a neutral outlook on the internal divisions of their Northern neighbor. The greatest lasting benefit from achieving a peace with insurgent organizations would be a dramatic cut in military and national security expenditures, freeing elements of the budget for dedication to internal improvements and other beneficial long-term projects.
One of the main reasons that Sudan has had major issues and wars for decades is their complete disregard and hatred towards minorities. They have long abused those that were not part of the majority, including Christians, South Sudanese, and the people of Darfur, South Kardofan, and the Blue Nile States. If this government truly wishes to make a change, this is a great way to start.
There is a clear desire on both sides of the negotiating table to resolve all mutual disputes, as may be attested to by the nature of the meeting’s context. Earlier last week, the Sudanese military attacked the Sudanese Liberation Movement – North and arrested several of its constituent members, prompting the SLMN to withdraw from the negotiating table. Talks resumed this past Friday, following a government-issued national ceasefire in spite of lingering hostilities.
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