Fighting Rages on in Sudan Amidst Ceasefire Extension

Rival factions of Sudan’s military agreed to renew a three-day ceasefire, shortly before it was due to expire.

The extension for another 72 hours follows intensive diplomatic efforts by neighboring countries, as well as the US, UK, and UN.

But there are continuing reports of heavy fighting in the capital Khartoum.

The previous truce allowed thousands of people to attempt to flee to safety, while dozens of countries have tried to evacuate their citizens.

Almost two weeks of fighting between the army and a rival paramilitary group have left hundreds dead.

The ceasefire had been expected to end at midnight local time (22:00 GMT on Thursday).

Early on Thursday evening the Sudanese regular army agreed to an extension and its rival the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, RSF followed suit hours later.

South Sudan has offered to host peace talks, and the army has agreed to send representatives to the talks.

Despite the bitter past and years of conflict that led to South Sudan’s separation from Sudan in 2011, the two nations now enjoy cordial relations.

BBC/Adebukola Aluko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group