Sudan’s RSF and allies have agreed to create a rival government, causing concerns over national fragmentation amid ongoing civil war. The charter promotes a democratic state while addressing humanitarian issues in RSF-held regions. The move is seen as politically motivated following recent military challenges, prompting criticism from the Sudan army-aligned government and the international community.
On Sunday, Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced their agreement with allies to establish a rival government, despite concerns that this development could exacerbate the fragmentation of the war-torn nation. Najm al-Din Drisa, spokesman for the United Civil Forces, confirmed to AFP, “The charter has been signed.” This agreement was finalized behind closed doors in Nairobi, aiming to create a “government of peace and unity” in regions controlled by rebel factions.
The charter is expected to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting over 12 million displaced individuals due to nearly two years of conflict with the regular army. Among the factions joining the agreement is a segment of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, which governs parts of South Kordofan and Blue Nile states. Notably absent from the signing was RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, though his brother and deputy, Abdel Rahim Daglo, participated in the proceedings.
The charter advocates for a “secular, democratic, decentralized state” that emphasizes freedom, equality, and justice across all cultural and ethnic identities. It also proposes the creation of a “new, unified, professional national army” that reflects the country’s diverse population, aiming to unify armed forces and facilitate humanitarian assistance.
The civil war began amid tensions over the RSF’s integration into national military structures and has led to significant casualties, with claims of genocide in Darfur. As the army regains territories, the RSF now controls more southern regions and borders with several neighboring countries. In response to the declaration of a parallel government, Sudan’s army-aligned foreign minister, Ali Youssef, asserted that his government would reject recognition of this development.
The UN has expressed concerns that establishing a separate government could escalate the country’s division, though the charter’s signatories maintain that they seek to serve the interests of those in RSF-held areas. Analyst Kholood Khair remarked that the RSF appears focused on enhancing its capacity through political maneuvers to strengthen its negotiating power.
Nevertheless, any arms trade with the new government would violate existing embargoes. Observers indicate that this political strategy may serve to deepen divisions within Sudan and among the regional allies involved. Kenya’s role in facilitating the signing has drawn criticism, prompting Sudan’s army-aligned government to recall its ambassador from Nairobi to protest against perceived improper affiliations with the RSF.
As tensions escalate and interests collide, the international community must remain vigilant regarding the implications of this power struggle.
The signing of a charter by Sudan’s RSF and its allies to form a rival government reflects a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict within the country. Despite assurances of a unified approach, the potential for further fragmentation looms large, exacerbated by existing humanitarian crises and geopolitical tensions. Analysts remain cautious about the implications for Sudan’s future stability and the risk of divided support among various communities and nations.
Original Source: www.france24.com
