The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of Sudan are creating a parallel government to secure diplomatic recognition and access to weaponry amid ongoing conflicts with the army. Their recent political charter in Kenya seeks to establish a legitimate government while addressing concerns about humanitarian aid and military support. The RSF continues to face challenges as the situation in Sudan remains unstable, with significant implications for peace efforts and international relations.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan are establishing a parallel government to gain diplomatic legitimacy and access to advanced weaponry, as reported by politicians and paramilitary sources. This initiative may exacerbate an ongoing civil conflict between the RSF and the army, which erupted in April 2023. Despite setbacks, the RSF aims to challenge the army’s internationally recognized government, which has relocated to Port Sudan due to the violence.
On Saturday, the RSF signed a political charter in Kenya with various political parties and armed groups. They plan to form a “Government of Peace and Unity” within weeks from Sudan. Leaders from the RSF and supportive politicians argue that their government would confront the army’s “divisive” strategies while prioritizing peace efforts.
The Port Sudan government has international backing, notably from Egypt, and is a member of global organizations; however, it is suspended from the African Union due to a prior coup. Analysts note that the RSF’s planned governance might aim to control humanitarian aid distribution and enhance their military capabilities for future peace negotiations.
The RSF reports receiving military support, including advanced drones, while both factions continue to acquire heavier weaponry externally. Efforts by the army to accuse international actors, such as the UAE, of supplying arms to the RSF have led to increased scrutiny from the international community.
The RSF, countering historical assertions of weakness, claimed it would have the authority to procure weaponry to protect its citizens when challenged. The army dismissed the RSF’s charter as a provocative measure to escalate an already tenuous conflict, increasingly unfavorable to the RSF.
Concerns regarding the RSF’s legitimacy have been voiced by the United Nations, underlining the need for a unified and sovereign Sudan. Meanwhile, the United States characterized the RSF’s actions as detrimental to ongoing peace efforts. The conflict has resulted in significant human displacement and turmoil, with over 12 million individuals affected.
The RSF maintains control over vast regions, including most of the Darfur region, while the army has regained substantial territory in central Sudan. Observers were surprised by the alignment of the SPLM-N rebel group with the RSF, which historically has faced criticism for human rights abuses.
The SPLM-N’s collaboration with the RSF showcases an evolving dynamic focused on establishing a secular and democratic nation, as proposed within their recently signed charter. This coalition is viewed as a pathway to securing needed resources and support to facilitate a peaceful resolution to longstanding hostilities in Sudan.
The establishment of a parallel government by Sudan’s RSF highlights their efforts to gain legitimacy and military resources amidst an ongoing conflict with the army. This move might complicate the existing dynamics and pose challenges to achieving peace. As the international community watches closely, the evolving alliances within Sudan’s complex political landscape will significantly influence future stability and humanitarian concerns.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
