Sudan’s antiwar coalition Taqaddum has fractured over participation in a new government backed by the RSF. The split resulted in the formation of two factions: Taasis, aligning with the RSF, and Somoud, which aims to maintain neutrality. Taqaddum’s signing of a controversial agreement with the RSF has diminished its credibility, leading analysts to view Somoud as an opportunity to reconnect with the civilian populace, albeit with significant challenges ahead.
On February 10, 2024, Sudan’s prominent antiwar coalition, Taqaddum, fractured due to disagreements about joining a parallel government established by the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This coalition, formed in October 2023 and led by former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, included diverse armed movements and civil society representatives. Following the split, members supporting the RSF created a new coalition called Taasis, while those rejecting the RSF’s governance, including Hamdok, formed a smaller group named Somoud.
The fragmentation comes as Taqaddum’s credibility wanes after signing a controversial Declaration of Principles (DoP) with the RSF, which many perceived as legitimizing the group’s violent actions. The DoP aimed to restore essential services in RSF-controlled areas but was deeply criticized due to the group’s continuous atrocities, including violent acts during its takeover of regions like Wad Madani.
The strategic decisions by Taqaddum’s members, particularly regarding stability and alignment, have prompted analysts to view this schism as an opportunity for Somoud to reconnect with local civilians. While Somoud now presents itself as a more neutral actor, it faces the challenge of gaining credibility in a highly polarized environment, where associations with the RSF remain a contentious issue.
Experts advocate for Somoud to engage proactively with grassroots organizations and to ensure its approaches reflect the lived experiences of the Sudanese populace. Somoud’s spokesperson has dismissed allegations that Taqaddum was complicit with the RSF, asserting that such claims stemmed from deliberate misinformation orchestrated by the army to undermine their position and credibility.
In conclusion, Sudan’s antiwar coalition Taqaddum has faced significant challenges leading to its splintering into new factions. The formation of Somoud reflects an attempt to restore credibility amidst widespread skepticism towards the RSF. While Somoud strives to maintain neutrality and reconnect with the civilian population, navigating the complex political landscape remains essential for achieving meaningful peace in Sudan. As analysts suggest, this transition could present a ‘blessing in disguise’ for Somoud, provided it effectively upholds its promises and engages constructively with local sentiments.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
