Kenya’s decision to host the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), known for their brutality in Sudan, compromises its commitment to justice in the region. This event undermines African Union peace efforts and contradicts international obligations, risking ongoing violence in Sudan. Urgent calls have been made for Kenya to retract its support and uphold peace initiatives.
The Kenyan government’s decision to host the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), notorious for their violent actions in Sudan, implicates it in the ongoing atrocities against the Sudanese population. This event occurred on February 18, 2025, when the RSF gathered in Nairobi to create a parallel government, directly contradicting Kenya’s commitment to justice and stability in Sudan and the Horn of Africa.
This meeting took place shortly after the African Union Peace and Security Council condemned external interference exacerbating the Sudanese conflict, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue among warring factions. Kenya’s actions undermine Pan-African principles, impeding the African Union’s ongoing peace efforts led by its High-Level Panel.
The UN’s Independent International Fact-Finding Mission reports that the RSF has likely committed war crimes, including sexual violence and forced displacements. Reports detail horrific violence against non-Arab communities, particularly the Masalit in West Darfur, evidencing severe human rights abuses.
The U.S. sanctioned RSF leader Mohammad Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti) in January 2025 for destabilizing Sudan and obstructing its democratic transition. His brother, Abdelrahim Hamdan Dagalo, faced sanctions in September 2023 for leading the RSF and its associated atrocities.
Kenya’s invitation for the RSF to convene in Nairobi violates international obligations, including the UN Charter and the AU’s foundational principles, disregarding the sovereignty of Sudan and the suffering of its people. At the time of their meeting, the RSF was committing egregious acts, including ethnic massacres and attacks on civilian populations.
On February 19, 2024, the Kenyan government acknowledged its role in facilitating the RSF’s gathering, a decision that jeopardizes its relations with Sudan. This action contradicts international efforts aimed at peace and jeopardizes the safety of Sudanese refugees in Kenya, whose abusers may soon establish control.
A strong response from the AU Peace and Security Council is essential, emphasizing the need to reject any unilateral declaration of governance by the warring parties. The AU must urge adherence to its statements affirming Sudan’s territorial integrity and a focus on political resolutions to the ongoing conflicts.
Moreover, it is urged that the Kenyan government take immediate actions, such as denying entry to RSF members and publicly apologizing for its support of the RSF. Upholding international obligations and refraining from involvement in peace negotiations are critical steps for Kenya’s role as an impartial entity.
The community remains committed to supporting the Sudanese people and will utilize all legal avenues to aid their efforts for peace and justice.
Kenya’s hosting of the RSF contradicts international obligations and undermines Sudan’s sovereignty amid escalating violence. The actions hinder collective peace efforts and threaten the lives of vulnerable Sudanese refugees in Kenya. Urgent calls for accountability and adherence to African Union principles are necessary to restore peace and stability in Sudan.
Original Source: khrc.or.ke
