Sudan Civil War: RSF’s Atrocities Against Civilians Escalate Humanitarian Crisis
Over 200 unarmed civilians in Sudan’s White Nile state were executed by the RSF over three days, according to local rights groups. The RSF, previously allied with the military, faces significant backlash and accusations of atrocities. With rising tensions and a move to form a rival government, the humanitarian crisis deepens, impacting millions in Sudan.
Recent reports indicate that over 200 unarmed civilians were executed in a series of attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in White Nile state, Sudan. The Emergency Lawyers network disclosed that such acts occurred in al-Kadaris and al-Khelwat, areas devoid of military presence. Allegations against the RSF include executions, kidnappings, enforced disappearances, and property looting, reflecting the brutal nature of the ongoing civil conflict that escalated in April 2023.
Before the civil war, the RSF had been allied with the military, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. However, disagreements over transitioning to civilian rule prompted their current conflict. Notably, some prominent RSF leaders are reportedly convening in Kenya to strategize the establishment of their own government within territories under RSF control. This development might exacerbate already present divisions within Sudan.
The humanitarian landscape in Sudan continues to deteriorate, with approximately 12 million individuals displaced due to the conflict. Reports indicate that tens of thousands of civilians have lost their lives, with both the RSF and the military facing accusations of committing heinous acts against their own populace. Central to this turmoil is the rivalry between General Burhan and his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo, the RSF leader.
Recently, the RSF’s position weakened as the army regains control over areas in Khartoum, including the military’s central headquarters, and solidifying dominance in the pivotal state of Gezira. In response to these setbacks, RSF has sought to assert itself by forming a rival government in regions primarily found in Darfur and parts of Kordofan, which remains under RSF control. They are coordinating with allied factions to formalize a “political charter for the Government of Peace and Unity.”
General Burhan has expressed his opposition to this initiative, committing to reclaim full control of Khartoum. Currently, he operates from Port Sudan, following the loss of Khartoum amid ongoing hostilities initiated by the RSF’s takeover of strategic locations, including the presidential palace.
The recent reports of mass killings perpetrated by the RSF against unarmed civilians highlight the dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan, exacerbated by the ongoing civil conflict between rival factions. As the RSF seeks to establish a governing authority amidst significant losses, the situation remains precarious. Continued international attention and intervention are crucial to address the catastrophic implications of this violence on Sudanese civilians.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
