Sudan has recently witnessed a significant escalation in its political landscape as the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) declared a rival government, seeking to assert authority over areas under its control. This proclamation marks two years since the onset of a devastating conflict that has led to the deaths of tens of thousands and created what the United Nations has classified as the most critical humanitarian crisis worldwide.
The RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, announced the formation of the “Government of Peace and Unity” on Tuesday, directly challenging the army-led administration headed by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. Dagalo articulated the vision of this new governing body as a legitimate representation of Sudan’s diverse demographic landscape, emphasizing its aim to foster peace and unity across the nation.
This initiative is set against a backdrop of past agreements, with the RSF and allied groups having previously signed a charter in February in Nairobi. This charter outlined their ambitions to establish an alternative governing authority. The RSF claims to have now ratified a transitional constitution that proposes the formation of a 15-member presidential council, which aims to encompass representation from all regions of the country.
Despite hopes for a unified transition, experts caution that the extended conflict poses a risk of permanently fracturing Sudan. Notable scholars, including Sharath Srinivasan from the University of Cambridge, have warned that the RSF’s increasing control in Darfur could lead to significant regional separation.
Since the eruption of violence on April 15, 2023, an estimated 13 million individuals have been displaced, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation with no political resolution in sight. The discord initiated from rising tensions between the military and the RSF, former allies who jointly facilitated the 2021 coup which undermined a civilian-led government.
As the RSF consolidates control, international attention has shifted toward its conduct during the conflict. Recent reports have prompted concern from the United States, which condemned the RSF for violence against civilians in the North Darfur region, particularly around displacement camps housing hundreds of thousands. The UN reported that over 300 civilians lost their lives as a result of RSF attacks this past weekend.
In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, the United Kingdom convened a donor conference in London, resulting in significant pledges of support from international partners. The European Union committed over 2 million, while the UK dedicated an additional 8 million. Officials highlighted the necessity for thoughtful diplomacy to circumvent further conflict and urged for an immediate ceasefire to pave the way for a transition to civilian governance.
This unfolding situation illustrates the complexities of Sudan’s path forward, balancing the necessity for peace while recognizing the diverse voices within its societal fabric.
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