Sudan gov’t and SPLM-N sign agreement to pave way for peace talks

Document lays out principles as basis to resolve conflict, including guaranteeing right to freedom of religion.

Sudan’s government and a major rebel group have struck an agreement paving the way for peace negotiations between the two sides after months of deadlock. Led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, Sudan’s People Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) is one of two groups that has yet to sign a peace deal with the transitional authorities that have been in power in Sudan following the 2019 removal of longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir. The “declaration of principles” signed on Sunday in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, outlines priorities including the unification of armed forces and the establishment of a democratic, secular state with freedom of religion.