Only dialogue can resolve conflicts, says PS Singo'ei amid criticism

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei has urged countries in conflict to prioritise dialogue, calling it the most effective tool for resolving inter-state disputes.

His remarks come as Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) prepare to form a parallel government on Friday in Nairobi, a move that has drawn strong opposition from Sudan’s official administration.

"Dialogue is the strongest weapon in resolving conflicts between nations. No matter how intense the dispute, all conflicts ultimately end at the negotiation table. Lasting peace is built through conversation, not confrontation," said the PS.

His statement follows Kenya’s clarification of its role in Sudan’s peace talks.

On Wednesday evening, Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to providing a neutral platform for negotiations, citing the country’s history in mediating conflicts.

Mudavadi said the recent proposal by the RSF and Sudanese civilian groups in Nairobi aligns with Kenya’s efforts to facilitate dialogue.

"We continue to offer a non-partisan space for conflicting parties to find common ground," noted Mudavadi, adding that Kenya remains committed to working with regional bodies such as the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to support Sudanese-led peace efforts.

"Kenya has a long history of providing platforms for peace negotiations without taking sides," he said.

But, Sudan has condemned Kenya for allowing opposition forces to meet in the capital, accusing her of violating agreements and supporting RSF’s alleged war crimes and human rights violations.

RSF deputy leader Major Gen. Abdul Rahim Hamdan Dagalo postponed plans to establish a "peace government" until Friday.

Kenya’s foreign policy has faced intense scrutiny this week, with experts warning of potential diplomatic fallout if Nairobi does not reassess its approach.