The World Food Programme (WFP) has voiced deep concern over Sudan’s decision to expel two of its senior officials, warning that the move comes at a critical time amid one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
Sudan’s Foreign Ministry confirmed it had ordered WFP Country Director Laurent Bukera and Head of Operations Samantha Katrag to leave within 72 hours, declaring them personae non gratae without explanation. The government insisted cooperation with the agency would continue but offered no details on the decision.
In a statement, WFP said it had lodged a protest with the authorities and was seeking clarification, warning that the expulsions could disrupt vital food relief for millions of Sudanese facing severe hunger and malnutrition. The agency described the decision as a setback to ongoing efforts to scale up operations across the country, where famine looms in several areas.
The United Nations said the move comes as Sudan faces what WFP called “the largest and most complex humanitarian crisis in the world,” with soaring food insecurity and restricted humanitarian access amid the ongoing conflict between the army and the Rapid Support Forces.
The Sudanese government said the measure was taken under laws governing foreign organizations and in line with state sovereignty. However, aid agencies have warned that the decision highlights increasing tensions between Khartoum and international relief groups, raising concerns about future cooperation as the crisis continues to worsen.
