Khartoum, May 6(Darfur24) The Secretary-General of the United Nations said that the situation in Sudan is becoming more worrying day by day, with the continuing intensification of fighting and the deterioration of the security situation.
During his visit to Burundi, Guterres said – in a press conference – Friday, that Sudan is facing a “humanitarian catastrophe”, as millions of people are trapped in the fighting and facing increasing food insecurity.
He added, “This is a tragedy for the people of Sudan and another threat to security in the Sahel region and East Africa.”
More than 100,000 people have fled the country since the outbreak of clashes between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees expects that about 800,000 people may leave the country in the coming days and weeks as the fighting continues.
civil war looms
Mr. Guterres stressed the need to stop the fighting immediately “before this conflict turns into a civil war that could destroy the country and unrest the region for years to come.”
He said that all parties must defuse tensions, come to the negotiating table and agree on a stable and lasting armistice.
The UN Secretary-General said that the organization is working hand in hand with the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and declared his personal commitment to work for the return of peace and civil rule to Sudan.
He also called for ensuring safe and unimpeded access for humanitarian aid to allow immediate distribution of aid to those in need.
“The civilian population and infrastructure must be protected, and humanitarian workers must be respected,” he said.
I call on the international community to support the Sudanese people in their pursuit of peace and a return to democratic transition.”