Khartoum: Sudan's army chief and head of the Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah al-Burhan on Friday urged the Sudanese people to return to their homes and take part in rebuilding the country, saying conditions are now 'safe and stable.'

According to Anadolu Agency, speaking after Friday prayers at a mosque in the Kalakla area south of the capital Khartoum, Burhan called on citizens not to be swayed by 'voices seeking to obstruct returns,' as per a statement from the Sovereign Council. Burhan emphasized that returns would remain voluntary, encouraging citizens not to be influenced by skeptics and opponents of resettlement. He highlighted the importance of rehabilitating essential facilities and contributing to reconstruction, with hopes that many would return before the holy month of Ramadan.

In recent days, the Sudanese government has intensified calls for residents to return to Khartoum, a city largely emptied as fighting with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) escalated early in the conflict. Burhan also criticized former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and the coalition known as 'Somoud,' which has been touring European capitals since January 20, warning host countries that the group acts against Sudanese interests and would not be welcomed back.

Burhan dismissed allegations by the coalition that the Sudanese army had used chemical weapons, labeling the claims as baseless and affirming the military's role in protecting civilians. On Monday, the Somoud coalition stated that its delegation met with Thomas Schieb, chair of the executive bureau of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, to discuss forming an investigative committee on the chemical weapons allegations.

Burhan also cautioned RSF rebels against attacks on civilians in cities like El-Obeid and Dilling, asserting that the army would continue to defend the population and insisting that 'victory is near.' Since the conflict began in April 2023, it has resulted in thousands of deaths, millions displaced, and a severe humanitarian crisis.

Currently, the RSF controls all five states in the western Darfur region, except for parts of North Darfur under army control. The military maintains control over most areas in the remaining 13 states across the south, north, east, and center of the country, including Khartoum.