Sudan Islamist networks accused of manipulating peace negotiations

Sudanese political figures have accused the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and its allies of attempting to influence international peace talks by introducing multiple political fronts linked to Islamist networks. Critics argue these groups, which include figures from the dissolved National Congress Party (NCP), are presenting themselves as independent entities to expand their representation in negotiations. Following consultations in Addis Ababa by the Quintet Mechanism, several civilian blocs boycotted the talks, citing concerns that the process is being used to rehabilitate Islamist-linked figures.

National Umma Party leader Urwa Al-Sadiq stated that these networks extend through various political, security, and institutional structures established during the era of former president Omar al-Bashir. He noted that these elements regained influence following the 2021 military takeover.

Concurrently, the rise of Islamist militias, such as the Al-Baraa Bin Malik Brigade, presents growing security and geopolitical risks. The brigade, which supports the SAF, has faced international sanctions from the U.S. Treasury Department due to its role in the civil war. The increasing influence of such armed groups contributes to a fragmented security environment in Sudan, potentially impacting regional stability and the strategic interests of external actors in the Red Sea and East Africa.