The RSF in Sudan has denied allegations of human rights violations and foreign military support, asserting their commitment to peace during a press conference in Nairobi. They accused the Sudanese army, purportedly backed by Egypt, of abuses against civilians amid the ongoing conflict. Despite reports documenting extensive abuses, RSF leaders emphasized their dedication to humanitarian efforts and a nationwide ceasefire.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of Sudan, which have been implicated in numerous human rights violations during the ongoing conflict with the Sudanese army, publicly denied these allegations during a press conference in Nairobi, Kenya. General Omar Hamdan Ahmed, head of the RSF delegation, asserted the group’s commitment to peace and refuted claims that they have received military assistance from the United Arab Emirates, insisting instead that they operate independently of foreign aid. Amidst the ongoing war, RSF members accused the Sudanese army, backed by Egypt, of targeting civilians and conducting air strikes, a claim that has been rejected by Cairo. The conflict, which escalated in April 2023, has resulted in mass casualties and has displaced millions of people, with both the army and RSF facing accusations of war crimes, including civilian targeting, sexual violence, and looting of humanitarian aid. Mohamad Mokhtar, another member of the RSF, noted that any rights abuses have been attributed to “other parties” while downplaying reports of widespread sexual violence against women and children in areas under RSF control. The international community, including United Nations experts, have pointed out a high incidence of sexual violence linked to the RSF, with findings documenting extensive abuses against vulnerable populations. Despite this, RSF representatives maintain their commitment to an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian efforts, arguing that the other side hinders any peace initiatives. The UN’s recent findings portray a grim picture of the conflict’s impact, which has resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of lives and the displacement of over 11 million individuals. As the situation develops, the argument over accountability continues to unfold amidst calls for peace and a resolution to the humanitarian crisis.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has resulted in severe humanitarian crises and accusations of widespread human rights violations. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group previously allied with the government, have been implicated in numerous atrocities since the outbreak of the conflict in April 2023. As the war rages on, both the RSF and the Sudanese army are accused of committing war crimes, leading to international scrutiny and condemnation, particularly regarding their treatment of civilians and the specific targeting of women and children.
The statements made by the RSF in Nairobi reflect their stance on the allegations of human rights abuses and their commitment to peace efforts amidst an ongoing conflict characterized by severe humanitarian violations. As the situation progresses, the international community remains vigilant about the actions of both the RSF and the Sudanese army, calling for accountability and a sustainable resolution to the crisis that has ravaged the nation.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
