Volker Türk expressed support for the restoration of and transition to democracy in Sudan after the October 2021 military coup. Volker Türk is the UN (United Nations) High Commissioner for Human Rights. Türk also said a renewed effort was needed to restore civil rule and transition the country to democracy. He provided this update on the Human Rights Council in Geneva on Friday. In his address, he further highlighted the death of a 17-year-old protester. The 17-year-old was shot dead by a police officer in the Sharq al-Nil district of Khartoum.
Türk argued that true accountability and transitional judicial action are a priority for victims. They should ultimately be seen as a prerequisite for stability and democratic change.
The Attorney General of the United Nations said those responsible for rights violations and abuses must be held accountable through due process and without undue delay.
“Reviews of emergency legislation must make sure that any amendments are in line with international law,’’ he said in a statement.
Turning to the Darfur region Türk said full implementation of the Juba Peace Agreement was vital. Hundreds of thousands died in the region. This was during a brutal fight after 2003 between Sudanese Government forces, militia groups and rebel militia,
“Vulnerable civilians still caught up in violence in the restive region, need security guarantees and political commitment, to resolve the underlying causes of conflict.
“My Office stands ready to strengthen its support, including for legal and institutional reforms to promote and protect human rights, the development of a victim-centred transitional justice process, and to broaden civic space,” he said.
Turk acknowledged that transitions were never straightforward, however, enormous opportunities exist for progress in all areas and for sustainable development that is more equitably shared.
“I stand in solidarity with the people of Sudan and wholeheartedly share their hopes and demands for genuine change, peace, democracy and justice,” the UN rights chief said.
In January, Sudan’s political parties began talks aimed at restoring a civilian-led transition. The UN has subsequently hailed it as an essential step towards peace and democracy.
