Al-Hilu: The Nairobi Meeting as a Defining Step Toward a New Sudan

Chairman of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), Abdelaziz Al-Hilu, has affirmed that the ongoing meeting in Nairobi marks a pivotal step toward achieving lasting peace and laying the foundation for a new Sudan built on democracy and justice.

Nairobi Meetings and Future Prospects

The Kenyan capital, Nairobi, witnessed the commencement of high-level discussions on Tuesday among various Sudanese political forces, aimed at signing the Charter for the Comprehensive Sudanese Peace Government. Despite the postponement of the signing ceremony to Friday, the broad participation of key political actors underscores the significance of this initiative in shaping Sudan’s political future.

The decision to delay the signing, made at Al-Hilu’s request, was intended to ensure full participation from his delegation—an indication of the SPLM-N’s commitment to actively contributing to this historic process. Notwithstanding the delay, prominent leaders, including Rapid Support Forces (RSF) Deputy Commander General Abdulrahim Hamdan Dagalo and National Umma Party Chairman Fadlallah Burma Nasir, attended the event alongside a host of other political and civil society figures.

Al-Hilu’s Vision: A New Constitution for a Unified Sudan

Addressing the attendees, Al-Hilu emphasized that the Nairobi meeting was not merely a political gathering but a historic turning point aimed at laying the groundwork for a transformative phase in Sudan’s governance.

“Our objective is not simply to end the war but to build a new Sudan based on justice, equality, and true citizenship. This meeting is an opportunity to draft a new constitution that guarantees rights for all and puts an end to the conflicts of the past.”

He highlighted the need for concerted efforts to turn this agreement into a tangible reality, asserting that Sudan requires a state that serves its people by ensuring security, healthcare, education, and essential public services without discrimination.

A Call for a Unified Civilian Front

Al-Hilu urged Sudanese political and civil forces to seize this historic opportunity to establish a broad-based civilian coalition capable of steering Sudan toward stability and democracy. He reiterated that the SPLM-N remains committed to realizing genuine democratic transformation, calling on the international community to support this process both through humanitarian aid and political backing.

Criticizing the current military-led administration in Port Sudan, Al-Hilu described it as an extension of a separatist agenda that does not serve Sudan’s long-term unity. He stressed the urgency of moving beyond this transitional phase by establishing a governance framework that aligns with the aspirations of all Sudanese citizens.

Toward a Future Free of Conflict

Concluding his speech, Al-Hilu underscored that Sudan stands at a critical crossroads: the Nairobi meeting could either mark the beginning of a genuine peace process or become yet another missed opportunity in the nation’s turbulent history. However, he expressed optimism about the road ahead:

“We have set foot on the right path. It is now up to all of us to work collectively to end wars, eradicate hatred, and turn the page on Sudan’s painful past.”

As the official signing of the political charter approaches on Friday, attention remains focused on Nairobi. Sudanese citizens and international stakeholders alike await with cautious optimism, hoping this initiative will serve as the foundation for a more stable, just, and prosperous Sudan.