Egypt has rejected efforts to establish a rival government in war-torn Sudan, warning such moves threaten the country’s unity and stability. The RSF’s recent declaration to form an alternative government has been met with significant criticism from Egypt and other regional players, who urge a collective approach to restore peace and address the humanitarian issues exacerbated by the ongoing conflict.
On Sunday, Egypt firmly rejected attempts to establish a rival government in Sudan, asserting that such initiatives threaten the nation’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity amid its ongoing conflict. The war between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has persisted for nearly two years, contributing to what the United Nations characterizes as a severe humanitarian crisis.
Just last week, the RSF and its allies unveiled a charter in Kenya to form a “government of peace and unity” in their regions. In response, Egypt’s foreign ministry declared, “Egypt expresses its rejection of any attempts that threaten the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of brotherly Sudan, including the pursuit of forming a parallel Sudanese government.”
This statement emphasized that such actions complicate the existing situation, impede efforts to unify political perspectives, and worsen the humanitarian crisis. Egypt further urged all Sudanese factions to prioritize national interests and to engage constructively in a comprehensive political process devoid of exclusion or external interference.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty reiterated this stance during a press conference with Sudanese counterpart Ali Youssef, affirming, “Sudan’s territorial integrity is a red line for Egypt,” and expressed rejection of any alternative structures outside the established framework. The RSF’s initiative has faced considerable criticism, including a rebuke from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who cautioned that it could exacerbate Sudan’s fragmentation.
Moreover, Saudi Arabia, a prior mediator in ceasefire discussions, condemned the RSF’s actions. In a statement via the official Saudi Press Agency, the foreign ministry warned against any unlawful actions outside official institutions. Kuwait and Qatar echoed this position, emphasizing the need to uphold Sudan’s territorial integrity and national unity. The United Arab Emirates, accused of supplying the RSF with arms—though it denies such claims—has yet to issue any comment on the situation.
In conclusion, Egypt has taken a definitive stance against the formation of a parallel government in Sudan, emphasizing the critical need for unity and territorial integrity amid the country’s ongoing conflict. This position is supported by regional allies, reflecting a broader concern over the potential consequences of fragmentation in Sudan. There is an urgent call for all Sudanese forces to engage in a collective political dialogue to restore stability and address the humanitarian crisis.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com