Sudan’s largest antiwar coalition, Taqaddum, splintered into two factions on February 10 due to disagreements over engaging with the RSF’s new government. The splinter group, Taasis, aligns closely with the RSF, while the smaller Somoud coalition, led by Abdalla Hamdok, aims to maintain its neutrality. The division offers Somoud a chance to rebuild its legitimacy and connect with Sudanese civilians amid a complicated conflict landscape and humanitarian crisis.
On February 10, Sudan’s prominent antiwar coalition, Taqaddum, split over whether to engage with the new government formed by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a key player in Sudan’s ongoing conflict. Taqaddum was established in October 2023 and consisted of armed groups, political factions, and civil activists, led by Abdalla Hamdok, the former prime minister ousted in 2021.
The splintered faction participating in the RSF administration is called Taasis (Foundation), comprising mainly armed groups seeking political positions through the RSF’s power. In contrast, traditional political leaders, including Hamdok, formed a smaller coalition known as Somoud (Resilience), which aims to maintain their neutrality amid concerns of associating with the RSF, labeled by the U.S. as responsible for genocide in Darfur.
Initially, Taqaddum was formed to mediate an end to the war, which escalated from a conflict over integrating the RSF into the army. This conflict has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands dead and millions displaced. The coalition faced challenges due to perceptions of its members being too accommodating to the RSF during peace negotiations.
Taqaddum’s credibility diminished further after a controversial Declaration of Principles was signed with the RSF in January 2024, perceived as legitimizing the RSF’s actions amidst local atrocities. This agreement raised concerns among Western diplomats regarding Taqaddum’s alignment with the RSF’s interests.
Analysts suggest the division may present an opportunity for Somoud to redefine its position and connect with Sudanese citizens better. Although smaller, Somoud might regain some credibility and could be part of a future civilian unity government, contingent on the dynamics with both warring factions.
Somoud leaders advocate for building relationships with local organizations to align their efforts with the realities facing Sudanese communities. They argue that acknowledging army contributions does not compromise their neutrality but can facilitate a call for an end to hostilities.
Somoud spokesperson Bakry Elmedni defends the coalition’s outreach efforts, portraying criticisms of Taqaddum’s proximity to the RSF as unfounded, orchestrated by the army to undermine their reputation. Despite public sentiments favoring army recaptures, allegations persist regarding army-led reprisals against suspected RSF supporters, complicating the conflict’s landscape.
The splintering of Taqaddum highlights significant shifts in Sudan’s anti-war coalition landscape. While the emergence of Somoud provides a chance for a political reset away from RSF affiliations, credibility remains a challenge. Effective communication and outreach to civilians will be crucial for any coalition seeking to represent the public in ongoing conflict discussions.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
