The African Union has expressed concerns over the Rapid Support Forces’ establishment of a parallel government in Sudan, warning it could lead to the country’s partition amidst ongoing conflict with the Sudanese Armed Forces. The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and widespread displacement, prompting urgent calls for international non-recognition of such governance. The situation is compounded by associated humanitarian crises, with millions facing severe food insecurity.
On Wednesday, the African Union issued a grave warning regarding the recent establishment of a parallel government in Sudan by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The Union expressed concerns that this development could lead to the further fragmentation of a nation already enduring nearly two years of violence and instability. Since April 2023, the RSF has been engaged in a brutal conflict with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and displacing more than 12 million individuals.
The war, ignited by disagreements over the integration of the RSF into the national army, has resulted in regional divides, with the SAF controlling the eastern and northern territories while the RSF dominates western Darfur and areas to the south. Both factions stand accused of committing war crimes throughout the conflict. Recent actions by the RSF include the signing of a “founding charter” for their parallel government in Nairobi, which aims to promote a “government of peace and unity” in rebel-controlled regions.
The AU condemned this move, highlighting the potential risks it poses to the unity of Sudan. The charter promotes the establishment of a secular, democratic, decentralized state rooted in principles of freedom, equality, and justice—overcoming cultural, ethnic, religious, and regional biases. Concurrently, the AU urged its member states and the global community not to recognize any governmental or parallel entities that could lead to the division of Sudan.
Furthermore, the European Union reinforced its commitment to Sudan’s territorial integrity, warning that the RSF’s attempts at governance could undermine the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese populace and facilitate a transition towards civilian rule. The conflict has prompted dire warning from the UN Security Council, emphasizing the risk of exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
The Sudanese government has also taken significant legal steps by filing a case against the United Arab Emirates in the International Court of Justice, alleging complicity in genocide through its alleged support of the RSF. This claim has been dismissed by the UAE as a mere “publicity stunt.” Meanwhile, allegations against other countries, including Egypt, Turkey, Iran, and Russia, suggest their involvement in aiding various factions in this civil strife, which the UN has characterized as an “unprecedented humanitarian crisis” in Africa. Millions face severe food insecurity, with eight million on the precipice of famine.
In conclusion, the African Union’s warning highlights the severe implications of the RSF’s establishment of a parallel government in Sudan. The ongoing conflict, marked by violence and displacement, poses significant risks to the nation’s unity and the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate. There is an urgent need for international support towards restoring stability and civilian governance in Sudan, as the nation faces unprecedented humanitarian challenges.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
