Sudan has recalled its ambassador to Kenya for the second time, protesting Nairobi’s decision to host discussions involving the formation of a parallel government.
In a statement issued on Thursday, January 20, Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Ambassador Kamal Jabara had been summoned for consultations in response to Kenya’s engagement with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its allies. The ministry described Nairobi’s actions as a “hostile move against Sudan.”
The statement further urged Kenya to reconsider its stance, warning that such actions threaten regional peace and security while promoting instability.
Sudan’s Foreign Affairs Ministry strongly criticized Kenya for hosting the RSF, accusing President William Ruto’s administration of facilitating efforts to establish an alternative government led by the militia group.
“This is a dangerous precedent in the region and the continent. It cannot be justified by referencing previous peace negotiations, such as the Machakos talks, which were conducted with Sudan’s government approval and under IGAD’s oversight,” the ministry stated.
The ministry claimed that the Nairobi meeting sought to legitimize RSF’s leadership despite ongoing reports of human rights violations by the militia. It specifically cited the recent Qetina massacre, where 433 civilians were allegedly killed during the talks in Nairobi.
Sudanese authorities alleged that Nairobi has become a hub for RSF’s political, financial, and logistical operations. The ministry also referenced previous engagements, including President Ruto’s meeting with RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, as evidence of Kenya’s support for the militia.
“The Kenyan President has prioritized personal and commercial interests with RSF’s regional sponsors over historical relations between Sudan and Kenya, as well as the need for regional stability,” the statement read.
Sudan called on Kenya to reverse its position and align with international efforts to support Sudan’s legitimate government, emphasizing that the move to host RSF leaders violated multiple international agreements.
This marks the second time Sudan has recalled its ambassador from Kenya in just over a year. The previous withdrawal occurred in January 2024 after President Ruto hosted RSF leader Dagalo in Nairobi.
Meanwhile, Kenya has defended its role in Sudan’s peace process. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, in a statement on February 19, reiterated Nairobi’s commitment to facilitating dialogue while maintaining regional security.
“In January 2024, parties to the Sudanese conflict gathered in a neighboring country to discuss an inclusive path forward. Sudan’s RSF and civilian groups later chose Nairobi to present their roadmap for peace, reinforcing Kenya’s credibility as a mediator,” Mudavadi stated.
Despite the diplomatic strain, Sudan has affirmed its commitment to safeguarding its national security and territorial integrity, warning that it will take further measures to counter any perceived threats.
