The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has issued a forceful condemnation following the shocking reports of a brutal assault on civilians in Kalogi, South Kordofan, Sudan, where more than 100 people—among them women, children, and preschoolers—were reportedly killed.
According to early accounts shared through various media channels, the attack deliberately targeted children, teachers, medical workers, and civilians attempting to provide aid, a development the Chairperson described as a severe breach of international humanitarian and human rights law. He emphasized that the intentional harming of vulnerable groups, especially in places meant to be safe—such as schools and health facilities—cannot be tolerated under any circumstance.
Youssouf expressed deep concern over what he called a pattern of repeated and escalating atrocities in the region. Reports of continuous aerial bombardments, drone strikes, and assaults on essential civilian infrastructure have raised alarm within the AU, particularly as communities remain trapped in violence with limited protection or access to help.
In a firm statement, he called for an immediate, unconditional ceasefire from all armed actors to halt the rising civilian casualties. He reiterated that children, the elderly, and women must be safeguarded at all times, and demanded full adherence to international legal obligations regarding civilian protection.
The Chairperson further urged that humanitarian agencies be granted unhindered access to affected areas in order to deliver urgent medical and relief support. He stressed that accountability is crucial, insisting on independent investigations to identify perpetrators and ensure justice for the victims of the Kalogi attack.
Reaffirming the African Union’s solidarity with the people of Sudan, Youssouf noted that the AU remains committed to working with both regional and global partners to prevent further violence, restore stability, and support renewed dialogue aimed at achieving sustainable peace across Sudan.
