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Kenyan President William Ruto has come under sharp criticism from Sudanese leaders for his involvement in the country’s ongoing crisis, with accusations of external interference and violation of African Union (AU) principles.
In an open letter dated Thursday, February 20, Sudan Sovereign Council Vice Chair Malik Agar warned of possible repercussions, emphasizing that Sudanese people are capable of resolving their internal conflicts without foreign intervention.
Sudan Accuses Ruto of Overstepping
Agar questioned Kenya’s motives in engaging with Sudan’s crisis, arguing that President Ruto should focus on domestic issues such as youth unemployment, poverty, and governance challenges instead of meddling in Sudanese affairs.
“It is essential to remind President William Ruto that his own country—Kenya, which he is responsible for—faces numerous internal challenges that require his full attention. How can he claim to mediate Sudanese affairs when he has never witnessed the scale of violence currently unfolding in Sudan? The Sudanese people are fully capable of handling their own matters, and the idea of establishing a parallel government is not a priority. The focus should be on stopping the conflict,” Agar stated.
He further warned that Kenya’s actions could lead to serious diplomatic consequences, citing AU regulations that prohibit external interference in the internal affairs of member states.
Ruto Criticized for Hosting Sudanese Opposition in Nairobi
Agar also condemned President Ruto for hosting Sudanese opposition figures in Nairobi, accusing him of supporting efforts to establish an alternative government in Sudan.
“The African Union has consistently emphasized the importance of respecting Sudan’s sovereignty. On February 14, 2025, the AU reaffirmed its commitment to Sudan’s territorial integrity. Yet, just days later, on February 18, President Ruto hosted members of the RSF and other groups in Nairobi, seemingly to facilitate the formation of a parallel government. Such actions directly contradict AU principles and undermine Kenya’s credibility as a neutral peace mediator,” the letter stated.
Kenya Defends Its Role in Sudan Peace Talks
The controversy comes shortly after Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi issued a clarification on the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) meeting held in Nairobi. He asserted that Kenya is not backing any faction but is facilitating discussions aimed at restoring peace in Sudan.
“This is not the first time Sudanese groups have sought regional support in resolving their crisis. In January 2024, various Sudanese parties met in a neighboring country to explore inclusive dialogue and a return to civilian rule. Similarly, the recent meeting in Nairobi was part of Kenya’s broader role in promoting peaceful solutions,” Mudavadi explained.
He reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to Sudanese stability, stressing that the country remains ready to work through regional bodies like IGAD and the AU to support Sudanese-led peace efforts.
“Kenya stands in solidarity with the people of Sudan as they determine their future through inclusive dialogue. We trust that Sudanese stakeholders will find a swift resolution that safeguards their security and the stability of the region,” Mudavadi concluded.
Growing Diplomatic Tensions
As diplomatic tensions rise, Kenya finds itself at a crossroads in balancing its regional peacekeeping ambitions with concerns from Sudanese leaders. Whether Kenya’s mediation efforts will ease tensions or escalate diplomatic rifts remains to be seen.
