Kenya’s Hosting of RSF Compromises Sudan Peace Initiatives

The Kenyan government hosting the RSF for a parallel government undermines peace efforts in Sudan and violates international commitments. This decision follows a UN report highlighting RSF war crimes, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Urgent recommendations call for the Kenyan government to retract support for the RSF and reaffirm its commitment to peace in Sudan.

The Kenyan government’s decision to host the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)—notorious for their brutal actions in Sudan—compromises its commitment to justice and accountability. By allowing the RSF to gather in Nairobi for the formation of a parallel government, Kenya undermines peace initiatives in Sudan, violating its international obligations.

This gathering occurred shortly after the African Union Peace and Security Council condemned external interferences in the Sudanese conflict. Kenya’s actions contradict the goals of Pan-Africanism and the African Union’s efforts to facilitate a comprehensive political dialogue among Sudanese stakeholders.

A recent UN report indicates reasonable grounds to believe that the RSF and its allied militias have committed serious war crimes, including sexual violence, forced displacement, and the recruitment of minors for combat. Reports of targeted violence against non-Arab communities, particularly the Masalit, have surfaced, highlighting the dire situation in Sudan.

On January 7, 2025, the U.S. sanctioned RSF leader Hemedti for his efforts to destabilize Sudan. This underscores the international community’s recognition of the RSF’s roles in various atrocities, including ethnic killings and sexual violence, further stressing the gravity of Kenya’s support for the RSF.

By hosting the RSF, Kenya is violating key international frameworks, including the UN Charter and the AU Constitutive Act. This action not only endangers Sudan’s sovereignty but also disregards the extensive suffering of Sudanese civilians and disrupts ongoing peace efforts.

At the time of the RSF meeting in Nairobi, they were committing heinous acts against civilians, including a recent attack that resulted in numerous fatalities in Southern White Nile State. Such circumstances mandate urgent international scrutiny and action.

On February 19, 2024, the Kenyan government, through official channels, acknowledged its role by providing the RSF with a meeting venue in Nairobi. This action is likely to strain diplomatic relations between Kenya and Sudan while undermining efforts for peace and accountability in the region.

Notably, this stance jeopardizes the safety of Sudanese refugees residing in Kenya, as they face threats from those who are now attempting to establish an illegitimate government. There is a need for urgent statements from the African Union condemning unilateral moves that compromise peace efforts and Sudanese sovereignty.

The following recommendations have been proposed to the Kenyan government:
1. Issue persona non grata status to all RSF members currently in Kenya.
2. Revoke public support for the RSF and apologize to the Sudanese populace.
3. Uphold international obligations related to peace and genocide prevention.
4. Refrain from participating as a mediator in Sudanese peace talks due to perceived bias.

Collective denunciation of Kenya’s actions is essential, and calls for a commitment to engage with Sudanese civil society must be heard. Solidarity with the Sudanese people remains paramount in the fight for justice and restoration in the region.

Signatories of this statement include various organizations and coalitions advocating for Horn of Africa stability and human rights.

In conclusion, Kenya’s decision to host the RSF challenges its international commitments and severely undermines peace efforts in Sudan. The Kenyan government must adhere to its obligations under international law, take corrective action against the RSF, and support initiatives that foster genuine dialogue and reconciliation among Sudanese factions. It is imperative that Kenya re-evaluates its role to contribute positively to the region’s stability.

Original Source: khrc.or.ke