Kenya’s decision to host the RSF in Nairobi undermines peace efforts in Sudan and is seen as complicit in the atrocities committed by these forces. This move contravenes Kenya’s obligations to promote justice and stability in the region. The AU and various organizations are calling for immediate actions from Kenya to remedy this damaging situation.
The Kenyan government’s decision to host the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), known for their brutal actions in Sudan, signifies complicity in atrocities against the Sudanese populace. On February 18, 2025, the RSF convened in Nairobi to establish a parallel government, contravening Kenya’s principles of justice and peace that it pledged to uphold in the Horn of Africa. This gathering occurred shortly after the African Union (AU) condemned external interference in the Sudanese conflict and advocated for an inclusive political dialogue.
By hosting the RSF, Kenya undermines the efforts of the African Union’s High-Level Panel and the AU Peace and Security Council, which are dedicated to fostering dialogue among all conflict parties. A recent report by the UN’s Independent International Fact-Finding Mission indicated reasonable grounds to believe that the RSF and allied militias committed war crimes such as sexual violence, pillage, and forced displacement. Notably, the RSF perpetrated horrific attacks against non-Arab communities, particularly the Masalit in West Darfur.
The United States sanctioned RSF leader Mohammad Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, for destabilizing Sudan and obstructing its democratic processes. His brother has similarly faced sanctions due to the RSF’s commission of severe atrocities, including ethnic killings. Kenya’s actions breach international laws and threaten Sudan’s sovereignty, thereby exacerbating the suffering of its citizens amidst ongoing peace initiatives.
At the time of the RSF meeting, atrocities including targeted killings of civilians had recently occurred. The Kenyan government later acknowledged its support for the RSF, which will likely harm Sudan-Kenya relations. This maneuver impedes both civil society efforts and international attempts to bolster peace and justice in Sudan, placing Sudanese refugees in Kenya at further risk from their oppressors.
In light of these developments, the AU Peace and Security Council should urgently condemn the RSF’s actions and reaffirm the need for an inclusive peace agreement. All Sudanese parties must adhere to AU directives ensuring Sudan’s territorial integrity and a political dialogue that resolves the conflict. Engagement in unilateral actions detrimental to peace should be avoided.
The Kenyan government should be urged to take immediate actions, including declaring RSF members in Kenya as persona non grata and retracting its earlier supportive statement. An unequivocal apology to the Sudanese populace is warranted, alongside a strict adherence to international obligations regarding the prevention of genocide. Moreover, Kenya should refrain from participating in peace talks, as its impartiality is compromised.
The signatories express unwavering solidarity with the people of Sudan and are committed to leveraging national and international legal mechanisms to support this mission.
Kenya’s decision to host the RSF establishes a troubling precedent, undermining efforts aimed at restoring peace and justice in Sudan. The actions not only violate Kenya’s international commitments but also heighten the risks for vulnerable populations. There is an urgent need for accountability and a call for the Kenyan government to repair its relationship with Sudan through immediate actions that promote peace and uphold human rights.
Original Source: khrc.or.ke
