Former rebel turned government ally proposes path to peace for Sudan

A former rebel leader now aligned with Sudan's government has put forth a proposal for a national dialogue aimed at ending the country's devastating civil war and guiding it toward democratic civilian rule. Malik Agar Ayyir, chairman of a militia group that once fought Khartoum, is now advocating for the restoration of the state's monopoly on arms and the dissolution of non-state armed groups as crucial steps in the transition.

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He also serves as deputy chairman of Sudan’s transitional government.

Ayyir, who also serves as deputy chairman of Sudan's transitional government, outlined his plan in a proposal obtained by Al Jazeera. The initiative seeks to foster consensus among actors supporting Sudan's internationally recognized government by convening a series of dialogues to tackle the nation's most pressing challenges. These include defining the role of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), managing the conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, determining the international community's involvement, and shaping Sudan's future governance.

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It aims to resolve disputes about the role of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), how to handle the conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, what role the international community should play, and how Sudan should be governed in the future.

The proposal explicitly acknowledges the significant role "external actors" have played in Sudan's internal affairs, a point Sudanese officials have frequently raised, often pointing to the United Arab Emirates' alleged support for the RSF. This initiative aims to build upon the 2020 peace deal signed between the government and several rebel groups, which sought to end decades of instability.

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For years, Sudanese officials have pointed the finger at regional actors, particularly the United Arab Emirates, for supporting the RSF’s rebellion.

Agar's proposal emerges amidst stalled peace efforts and a deepening humanitarian crisis. Since the SAF and RSF conflict erupted in April 2023, millions have been displaced, and thousands killed. Previous peace plans, including one presented by Sudan to the UN Security Council and the "Quad" initiative by the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, have faced dismissal or criticism from various factions. A more recent "Nairobi roadmap" also seeks a civilian-led alternative to the warring parties.

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Since fighting began between the SAF and the RSF in April 2023, thousands have been killed and 14 million displaced, creating the world’s largest ongoing humanitarian and refugee crisis.