Sudan Motion
Peterborough Trades Union Council stand in solidarity with the Middle East
and North Africa Solidarity Network and demand an immediate ceasefire in
Sudan
Delegates of Peterborough Trades Union Council (PTUC) have met with Khalid
Sidhamed of Middle East and North Africa Solidarity Network (MENA) to discuss the ongoing armed conflict in Sudan. Khalid explained that since the recommencement of hostilities in April 2023, between Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, Sudanese trades unions have played a pivotal role in supporting the civilian population and have consistently
called for and worked towards a ceasefire and peaceful resolution of hostilities,
despite the personal risks involved. Despite this, a significant portion of the civilian
population have been displaced and are at significant risk due to a lack of food,
water and healthcare.
John Cooper, Secretary, PTUC said “we recognise the incredible work and sacrifice
of our fellow trades unionists is Sudan. Their example is an example to us all and
Peterborough extends a hand in friendship and solidarity.” The PTUC delegates learned that the conflict is being exacerbated by regional states such as Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Israel, who supply weapons and equipment to the protagonists. These are then regularly used against the civilian
population of Sudan. John Cooper said “The supply of weapons to Sudan by regional powers is abhorrent, and we call on the UK government to use all channels to work towards demilitarisation in Sudanese cities and residential neighbourhoods and to cease arms sales to all states involved in weapons trading in the region.”