The United Civil Forces Coalition (UCFC), a broad alliance of Sudanese civil, political, and social forces, has issued a statement from Kampala, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and unity in Sudan.
Formed in response to the April 15, 2023, conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the UCFC represents a diverse range of groups, including resistance movements, political factions, women’s organizations, and community leaders.
The UCFC praised Uganda’s President, Yoweri Museveni, for his efforts in working to end the war and sheltering refugees. “The war of April 15 marks a dangerous turning point in Sudan’s history,” the statement said, describing it as the result of decades of mismanagement by successive regimes.
The coalition highlighted the dashed hopes following the toppling of the Bashir regime and the December revolution’s aspirations for a democratic Sudan. They blamed long-standing forces for igniting the war, which has caused a severe humanitarian crisis, displacing millions and collapsing services.
The UCFC has outlined several key objectives for Sudan’s future, including ending the war, establishing a democratic state, rebuilding national institutions, and creating a professional, non-partisan army. They also stressed the need for transitional justice and the reconstruction of war-damaged areas.
Calling for peaceful negotiations and rejecting violence, the UCFC urged all factions to engage in dialogue and work towards a democratic transition. They condemned army airstrikes on civilians and called for the protection of humanitarian aid.
The coalition envisions a Sudan free from racism and hate speech, where the rule of law prevails, and a peaceful democratic future can be realized.