Sudan has recalled its ambassador to Kenya Kamal Gubara in protest against the reception President William Ruto gave to the Sudanese paramilitary commander Mohamed Hamad Dagali.
In a statement on Thursday, January 4, the foreign minister of Sudan Ali Al-Sadiq confirmed that the envoy had been summoned because of the reception Dagalo received on Wednesday, January 3, at the State House.
Popularly known as Hemeti, Dagalo heads the Paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) which has been involved in a conflict with the country’s national army.
Al-Sadiq noted that the meeting with the ambassador will cover all possibilities of the outcome of Sudan’s relations with Kenya.
In the statement, the Foreign Affairs Ministry likened the move to receive Dagali to turning a blind eye on the atrocities allegedly caused by the RSF group.
“Sudan has recalled its ambassador to Nairobi for consultations in protest against the official reception organized by the Kenyan government for the commander of the rebel militia when he visited Kenya on Wednesday,” the statement by the foreign minister read in part.
“Nairobi has forgotten the terrible violations committed by the rebel forces and the destruction they caused to the country’s infrastructure, capabilities, and citizens’ property.”
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Ruto Meeting With Sudan Paramilitary Leader in Kenya
When he arrived in Kenya, the paramilitary head was given a warm welcome including a red carpet reception at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
He was received at the airport by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki alongside other government officials.
Thereafter, President William Ruto hosted him at State House where they discussed matters pertaining to maintaining peace in Sudan, as per the statement given by the State House later in the day.
“Kenya appreciates the commitment of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its leader, General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo in ending the conflict in Sudan through dialogue.
“The ongoing Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) talks should bring about a political settlement that would effect a lasting peace in the country. We are looking forward to nothing but a peaceful resolution and a stable neighbour,” Ruto stated.
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Notably, the meeting was part of a broader regional tour done by Dagalo as he has engaged with leaders in Ethiopia, Djibouti, Uganda and recently met the South African President.
DRC Recalls its Envoy to Kenya
In a separate incident, Ruto found himself in an awkward position after DRC summoned its envoy to Kenya in protest of a meeting held by the Congolese opposition figure Corneille Nangaa in Kenya.
Additionally, Nangaa who had been living in exile announced the creation of a political-military alliance, while calling on the M23 rebels and other armed groups to join the alliance.
Also, the Congolese opposition figure stated that the alliance would save the DRC which has experienced political instability for years.
The opposition leader challenged President Felix Tshisekedi’s leadership noting that they would oppose him in the coming polls.
