Sudan has condemned Kenya’s support for rival paramilitary groups amid ongoing warfare. Tensions stem from a power struggle between military leaders, leading to a potential formation of a parallel government. Sudan’s government plans economic sanctions against Kenya and intends to withdraw its ambassador. The situation threatens to escalate the regional conflict and humanitarian crisis.
Sudan’s army-aligned administration strongly criticized Kenya on Monday, labeling its support for rival paramilitary groups as “irresponsible and hostile.” The tensions have escalated since April 2023, following a power struggle between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. The RSF, along with a coalition of political and armed groups, recently signed a charter in Nairobi aimed at forming a parallel government, an action Sudan deems as threatening regional security.
The Sudanese foreign ministry condemned Kenya’s involvement, stating it sets a dangerous precedent. They view the formation of a parallel government as a tool for the RSF’s militia to consolidate power and arm itself, which could exacerbate the ongoing conflict. Sudan announced it would respond decisively to what it perceives as Kenya’s hostile behaviors, hinting at potential economic sanctions that may prohibit the import of Kenyan products.
Furthermore, Sudan’s foreign ministry undersecretary mentioned plans to withdraw its ambassador from Kenya and file formal complaints through international channels. The signing party included factions linked to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, which has control over certain regions within Sudan. The United Nations has warned that such agreements risk deepening the fragmentation of Sudan and dragging out the conflict.
Kenyan Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi characterized the charter as a peace agreement promoting unity and governance. However, Sudan accused Kenya of enabling the RSF to acquire weapons, undermining efforts towards stability. Tensions further escalate as Sudan confronts the RSF while its leadership is subjected to international sanctions for severe human rights abuses.
In January, Kenya entered an economic partnership with the United Arab Emirates, further complicating relations with Sudan, which has accused the UAE of supplying arms to the RSF. Accusations surfaced that Kenyan President William Ruto holds personal interests in the militia’s leadership, which Sudan perceives as a detrimental alliance amid ongoing armed conflict, leading to severe humanitarian implications for the region.
In summary, the relationship between Sudan and Kenya has deteriorated amid political and military tensions stemming from a power struggle within Sudan. The signing of a parallel governance charter by the RSF, supported by Kenya, has provoked strong reactions from Sudan’s government. As Sudan threatens economic measures against Kenya, the broader implications for regional stability and humanitarian conditions remain severe.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
