The United States announced the appointment of Tom Perriello as its new special envoy for Sudan, aiming to reinvigorate efforts to end the ongoing conflict that has ravaged parts of the country and claimed countless lives.
Perriello, a former diplomat and U.S. congressman, will take on the role on Monday, according to a statement from Secretary of State Antony Blinken shared with Reuters. This appointment underscores the Biden administration’s increased focus on the Sudanese crisis following stalled peace talks.
“This appointment reflects the urgency and importance President Biden and Secretary Blinken have placed on ending this war,” said Perriello. He pledged to build on existing partnerships with African and Middle Eastern nations to achieve a lasting peace, address the dire humanitarian situation, and prevent further atrocities against civilians.
The announcement coincides with the departure of John Godfrey, the outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Sudan. Daniel Rubinstein will assume the role of interim chargé d’affaires, leading the Office of Sudan Affairs from Ethiopia.
The Sudanese conflict erupted last April, stemming from disputes regarding power-sharing between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) under a negotiated transition plan towards civilian rule and elections. Following the 2019 popular uprising that toppled former President Omar al-Bashir, the military and RSF initially shared power with civilian authorities before staging a coup in 2021.
The ensuing war has inflicted immense damage on Sudan, including its capital Khartoum. The United Nations estimates the death toll at over 13,000, with the potential for famine looming large and a growing internal displacement crisis.
Perriello brings experience to this critical role, having previously served as special envoy for the Great Lakes region of Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as a U.S. representative from Virginia. Rubinstein, who recently led the U.S. delegation at unfruitful peace talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, will provide further continuity in the face of the ongoing challenges.
The U.S. had already taken a step back in April 2023, evacuating non-essential personnel from Khartoum and suspending embassy operations due to the escalating conflict. Perriello’s appointment signifies a renewed commitment from Washington to engage in diplomacy and work towards a peaceful resolution in Sudan.