New York, 1 May 2023 (TDI): Spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Ravina Shamdasani highlighted the plight of Sudanese civilians amid ongoing hostilities in Sudan.
She stated that it is highly condemnable that force is being used against Sudanese civilians who overthrew a military dictatorship of 30 years. The people of Sudan have resisted the military takeover with great courage.
She urged that guns must be silenced and reason must prevail
The Human Rights situation in Sudan is constantly deteriorating. The skirmishes between the Rapid Support Group and the Sudanese Armed Forces have plunged the country into fear, deprivation, trauma, and unending suffering for civilians.
Thousands of people have fled their homes in search of safety and protection. Many have been trapped in residential areas where fighting has been taking place, including air strikes, shelling, and the use of heavy weapons.
The people have tried to use any period of calmness to flee to a relatively safer place.
People have been facing acute shortages of food, water, electricity, fuel and limited access to healthcare and communication. People also have limited cash due to the closure of banks.
Amid devastating circumstances, the RSF is involved in looting and exhorting people as well.
Also read: Switzerland, UNSC condemn clash in Sudan
Although a ceasefire was welcomed to provide some relief to the civilians, clashes continued in the populated areas of Khartoum, Bahri, Omdurman, and towns in Darfur and North Kordofan.
The high commissioner expressed concerns at the serious risk of violence escalating in West Darfur as the clashes between the RSF and SAF have engendered inter-communal violence.
In El Geneina, West Darfur, dangerous ethnic clashes have been reported, with an estimated 96 people killed since 24 April.
The reports of inmates being released from or escaping from prisons have also been reported. The matter is alarming as it may provide a way for further violence and impunity to the perpetrators.
The High Commissioner on Human Rights called on the warring parties to end the hostilities, especially in residential areas. The High Commissioner has urged them not to target the civilian population and infrastructure.
The civilians must be protected as demanded by international law.
The people of Sudan have been a victim of decades of conflicts, repression, armed conflicts, and deprivation. They must not be subjected to further violations of their fundamental human rights.
All those with influence in Sudan must play a role in de-escalating the situation. They must stand in solidarity with the Sudanese in their demand for a peaceful and democratic future.
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