Sudan has expressed optimism about a possible reassessment of its suspended African Union (AU) membership while denouncing sanctions for exacerbating its humanitarian challenges. The country’s membership was suspended in 2021 following a military takeover, with reinstatement contingent on the restoration of civilian governance.
Sudan’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Al-Zain Ibrahim, highlighted the recent visit of the AU’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) to Port Sudan as a sign of progress. He described the visit as offering “encouraging signals” and called for a reevaluation of Sudan’s suspension. Ibrahim argued that the exclusion has undermined the AU’s influence in Sudan and empowered destabilizing forces.
Additionally, Ibrahim criticized the sanctions’ effects, particularly on vital sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and child welfare. He also questioned the exclusion of Sudanese officials from technical meetings, emphasizing the need for inclusive support to address community needs.