Sudan’s Paramilitaries Establish Rival Government Amid Diplomatic Strife
The Rapid Support Forces in Sudan have signed a political charter to establish an alternate government, claiming it will lead to peace in a civil war context. Critics argue this is a dangerous move, with potential consequences for Sudan’s stability. The situation has sparked diplomatic tensions between Sudan and Kenya, as the R.S.F. seeks to consolidate political power amidst allegations of war crimes.
The Rapid Support Forces (R.S.F.), a paramilitary group engaged in Sudan’s civil war, recently entered a political alliance to create a competing government in regions they control. This agreement, finalized in Nairobi, purports to be a step toward halting the two-year conflict that has led to widespread devastation and famine. Critics assert that this move is a risky strategy by a group accused of genocide by the United States, fearing it may further divide Sudan.
Notably, the charter included support from the deputy leader of the S.P.L.M.-N., a secular rebel faction that had previously remained neutral. The immediate implication of this pact was heightened diplomatic tensions, particularly after R.S.F. leaders, many implicated in war crimes, held public engagements in Kenya. The Sudanese military government condemned Kenya’s facilitation of these discussions, denouncing it as a significant provocation, and consequently recalled its ambassador to Nairobi in outright protest.
Despite enjoying support from R.S.F., the Kenyan government insisted that its role was one of neutrality aimed at providing a forum for key stakeholders to engage in discussions intended to prevent further chaos in Sudan. However, public sentiment in Kenya leaned toward outrage, with calls for President William Ruto to reconsider the diplomatic approach. Prominent organizations in Kenya criticized the Kenyan government’s involvement, citing potential complicity in atrocities occurring in Sudan.
The Rapid Support Forces’ recent initiative to form a rival government amid ongoing civil conflict in Sudan presents a complex challenge for regional diplomacy. Their partnership with additional factions could risk deeper fragmentation within Sudan. The backlash from the Sudanese military and rising local condemnation in Kenya underscores the precarious nature of these diplomatic efforts.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
