The Republic of Sudan now plans to ban imports from Kenya for hosting activities by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi.
Speaking on February 24, Sudan’s Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Hussein al-Amin said government will take escalatory measures against Kenya for its relations with RSF.
“We will take economic actions, including banning the import of Kenyan products, especially since Sudan is one of Kenya’s largest tea importers,” he said.
Amin said the Sudanese government will involve the African Union (AU) and other organizations to retaliate against Kenya for taking a position against Sudan.
“We will submit a memorandum to the African Union and other international organizations, and we have escalatory measures against Kenya for its hostile positions toward Sudan,” he added.
He accused Kenya of supporting the RSF, which has been fighting the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) since mid-April 2023.
Amin explained that Kenya’s decision to allow RSF and its allies to sign a founding charter for the formation of a parallel government in Nairobi is as a hostile act and blatant interference in Sudan’s internal affairs.
He emphasized that the move violates all international charters and agreements, including those of the United Nations, the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development.
Kenya Supports RSF
On February 23, Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and CS for Foreign & Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi supported the signing of a charter between the RSF and other allied political and armed groups to form a government of peace and unity.
Mudavadi said the Kenyan government is aware of the activities of RSF and other Sudanese political parties, civil society, and military groups in Nairobi.
“The steps are welcomed and encouraging in a journey toward the restoration of peace, stability, and democratic governance in the Republic of Sudan,” Mudavadi said.
Also Read: 4 Times Kenya Intervened to Solve Sudan’s Conflicts
Mudavadi stated that the peace roadmap signed in Nairobi reflects the commitment of Sudanese political and civil society groups to prioritize their country’s future over divisions.
He also acknowledged the groups for demonstrating courage in engaging in the dialogue.
Also Read: Details of Sudanese Rebels Forming a Parallel Govt Last Night in Nairobi
Sudan Recalls Ambassador from Kenya
Sudan recalled its ambassador from Kenya on February 20 after reports that Kenya was hosting RSF and other groups opposed to the government.
According to Sudan’s Foreign Ministry, Ambassador Kamal Jabara was summoned for consultations accusing Kenya of supporting establishment of a parallel government to the legitimate one in Sudan.
On February 18, the Ministry issued a statement stating that the decision by Kenyan government violates the principles of good neighborliness and contravenes the pledges President William Ruto has made at the highest levels not to allow hostile activities against Sudan to be carried out on its soil.
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