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Sudan: The African Commission Condemns the Massacres in “Al-Kanabi” and “Wad Madani” in Al-Jazirah State, Calls for Accountability and Civilian Protection

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The Country Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Republic of Sudan at the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Hatem Al-Sa’em, issued a press statement regarding the state of human rights in the Republic of Sudan.

Al-Sa’em expressed deep dismay over the massacres that occurred in recent days in the cities of Al-Kanabi and Wad Madani in Al-Jazirah State.

 

– A Serious Violation:

He conveyed the African Commission’s condemnation of the horrific acts of violence witnessed in these areas, describing them as a grave violation of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and fundamental principles of human dignity.

The statement also highlighted a series of deadly attacks carried out by individuals dressed in Sudanese army military uniforms. Video evidence documented individuals wearing this attire arresting unarmed civilians and then conducting extrajudicial executions using firearms.

Reports further indicated that individuals affiliated with the Sudanese military forces executed several civilians in Al-Kanabi, accusing them of supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The attacks were reportedly carried out using retaliatory methods targeting innocents, exacerbating their suffering.

The African Commission expressed deep concern that these incidents may not be isolated but could represent a systematic pattern of violations threatening the humanitarian situation in the region. It urged Sudanese authorities to honor their international human rights commitments, take immediate measures to protect civilians, and ensure such atrocities are not repeated.

 

– A Call from the African Commission: 

As part of its mandate, the Commission, through the Country Rapporteur for Sudan, issued an urgent appeal to the Chairman of the Transitional Sovereignty Council. The appeal called for immediate measures, including providing an accurate clarification of the allegations mentioned in reports, conducting urgent, impartial, and effective investigations to rectify the situation, and holding the perpetrators accountable. It also urged immediate steps to ensure the safety and protection of civilians from all forms of violence.

The statement further emphasized the necessity of strict adherence to the letter and spirit of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, international human rights law, and international humanitarian law standards, as well as relevant international instruments to which Sudan is a party.

The Commission also stressed the importance of ensuring unhindered access for humanitarian organizations to provide urgent assistance to the victims and displaced persons affected by these events.

In conclusion, the Commission affirmed its continued monitoring of the situation in Sudan closely and expressed its unwavering support for the victims of these violations and their families. It also called on the African Union and the international community to intensify efforts to restore peace and stability in Sudan and ensure the protection of human rights in the country.

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