Sudan’s RSF and Allies Establish Rival Government Amid Ongoing Conflict
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan have signed a charter with allies to create a rival government, which they claim will foster peace in rebel-held areas. This development comes amidst ongoing conflict that has led to a massive humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced. Concerns persist regarding the potential for increased fragmentation within the country as tensions continue between the RSF and the regular army.
On Sunday, Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their allies announced the formation of a parallel government, despite concerns that such a move would exacerbate the ongoing fragmentation of the war-torn nation. Najm al-Din Drisa, spokesman for the United Civil Forces, confirmed the signing of the charter in a closed-door meeting in Nairobi, establishing a “government of peace and unity” in areas controlled by the rebels.
The charter aims to address the humanitarian crisis and seeks to integrate armed groups into a unified national army. The new government claims to promote a secular and democratic state founded on principles of justice and equality, free from bias towards any identity. This initiative is a response to the devastating conflict that has displaced over 12 million individuals and is regarded as the largest humanitarian crisis by the United Nations.
The war has its roots in disputes regarding the RSF’s integration into Sudan’s national military, resulting in significant casualties and widespread atrocities. The conflict has divided the country, with the RSF controlling vast territories in the west and south, while the regular army is focusing on retaking the capital, Khartoum. In this context, US authorities have accused the RSF of committing genocide in Darfur.
Despite the potential for increased fragmentation, proponents of the charter assert it will provide essential services to neglected populations in RSF-controlled areas. Alaa El-Din Nuqd emphasized that the proposed government aims to restore dignity to the affected civilians. However, analysts caution that the RSF’s strategy might be driven by a desire to enhance its political standing rather than to achieve peaceful resolution.
Kenya’s role in facilitating this charter has drawn criticism from the Sudanese army-led government, which has condemned the engagement with what they describe as a militia. This diplomatic row underscores the complex and contentious political climate surrounding the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
The signing of the charter for a rival government by Sudan’s RSF and its allies indicates a significant escalation in the country’s conflict, further complicating the humanitarian landscape. While the proponents argue for peace and unity, skeptics warn that this move could ultimately deepen divides within Sudan. The international community must closely monitor the situation, as tensions between the RSF and the regular army continue to unfold, raising concerns over stability in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com