The coming year will be a pivotal one in the history of Sudan, with the country’s first multi-party elections for 24 years looming and the expiry date of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement just one year away.

Amid claims that the voter registration system is flawed, the Sudan Peoples’ Liberation Movement and other opposition parties are already warning that they may boycott the poll in April.

There is also concern that the CPA may be on the brink of collapse, with seven of Sudan’s churches issuing stressing that it must be adhered to if Sudan is to avoid going to war again. The joint statement also called on Western governments to intervene to prevent a return to conflict.

This event discussed what lies ahead for Sudan, looking at the prospect for free and fair elections and the possibilities of return to war or for restoration and transformation.