Sudan has recalled its ambassador to Kenya Kamal Jubara after Nairobi hosted the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
It also vowed escalatory measures following the move by RSF to establish a parallel government while in Nairobi.
“The government of Sudan announced today the withdrawal of its ambassador from Kenya, against the backdrop of the latter’s hosting of meetings that included representatives of the Rapid Support Militia and some political parties, which aim to form a parallel government,” Sudan said in a statement.
Khartoum called the move a blatant interference in Sudan’s internal affairs and vowed to take escalatory measures in response.
Sudan stressed that Kenya’s hosting of these meetings is a violation of its sovereignty, warning of the repercussions of the behavior on bilateral relations between the two countries.
In an earlier statement, Sudan’s foreign ministry accused Kenya of taking a “disgraceful position by embracing and encouraging a conspiracy” that violates Sudan’s sovereignty.
However, the Kenyan government denied this.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a peace process in Sudan, which has been in the midst of a war between the regular army and paramilitaries since mid-April 2023.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said Kenya is obligated to provide non-partisan platforms to conflict parties to seek resolutions.
“Kenya therefore reiterates its solidarity with the people of Sudan as they define their destiny and future political governance through inclusive dialogue. Kenya is confident that the Sudanese people will find a quick solution to the current situation, and in a manner that safeguards its security and that of the region,” he said.
He cited the globally acclaimed Machakos Protocol of 2002 that ended the Sudan II civil war, which was concluded in Kenya.
“When Kenya offers this space, it is without any ulterior motives. It is because we believe there is no military solution to political disputes,” he explained.
The conflict in Sudan, which has dragged on for 24 months now, continues to devastate the nation.
An estimated 11 million people have been displaced, most of them children and women.