The RSF is forming a parallel government in Sudan to secure legitimacy and access to advanced weaponry amid ongoing conflict with the army. This initiative follows a political charter signed with various factions aiming to create a government that challenges the army’s control and seeks international recognition. The RSF’s strategy may also influence humanitarian aid and peace negotiations.
Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are establishing a parallel government, seeking to gain diplomatic legitimacy against the army-led government while facilitating access to advanced weaponry. This move follows the conflict that erupted in April 2023, where the RSF has lost ground despite prior military strength. The RSF’s new government aims to address humanitarian issues and challenge the army’s control, which has been recognized internationally despite relocation due to conflict.
On Saturday, the RSF signed a political charter in Kenya, forming a “Government of Peace and Unity” with various political factions. The group intends to position itself as the legitimate governing body, claiming the existing army-led administration employs divisive tactics and fails to engage in peace talks. Politician Ibrahim al-Mirghani emphasized the need for international recognition linked to establishing peace and preventing further violence.
The army-led government retains significant backing from international partners and has been the recognized authority globally, notably since the coup in 2021 that disrupted the transition to civilian rule. Analysts suggest that the RSF’s initiative may aim to control humanitarian aid distribution, enhance military capabilities, and strengthen its negotiating position in potential peace talks.
Military support for the RSF has been noted, with advanced weaponry being supplied by various foreign entities. The RSF denies intentions to use its claimed government status to procure arms, asserting that its focus remains on defending its populace. Conversely, the army rebukes the RSF’s actions, branding them as escalatory amidst their military disadvantage.
Recent developments indicate that the army has regained control in significant central areas, although the RSF maintains influence in Darfur and other regions. The alliance with the SPLM-N, a prominent rebel group, reflects a shift towards pursuing a secular, pluralist governance vision called “New Sudan.” This collaboration is rooted in shared interests rather than previous accusations of RSF abuses.
Leaders from SPLM-N articulate that the alliance will bolster efforts toward peace and provide necessary resources to confront the army. This partnership aims to reshape Sudan’s power dynamics towards a unified, democratic vision, amidst ongoing humanitarian crises and sectarian violence.
The establishment of a parallel government by the RSF in Sudan indicates a strategic attempt to gain legitimacy against the army-led government and secure military support. This move reflects the ongoing struggle for power amid a devastating conflict that has already caused widespread violence and humanitarian crises. Additionally, the RSF’s collaboration with the SPLM-N underscores a potential shift in Sudan’s political landscape towards a more inclusive governance framework.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
