The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are forming a parallel government in Sudan to challenge the legitimacy of the army-led government and access advanced weaponry. This initiative may prolong the ongoing conflict, which began in April 2023, as the RSF signs a political charter aimed at creating a “Government of Peace and Unity.” Analysts warn this could disrupt humanitarian aid access and complicate future peace negotiations.
Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are establishing a parallel government to obtain diplomatic legitimacy from the dominant army-led government and gain access to advanced weaponry. This initiative, supported by politicians and paramilitary leaders, may exacerbate the ongoing conflict that has significantly impacted Sudan’s stability since fighting erupted in April 2023.
The RSF’s push for a new governance framework aims to counteract the internationally recognized army government, which has relocated due to the conflict. Recently, the RSF signed a political charter in Kenya, promising to form a “Government of Peace and Unity” that they claim will operate from within Sudan.
Leaders within the RSF assert that their governance will undermine the army, which they claim employs divisive tactics and obstructs peace negotiations. “We are not a parallel government… we are the legitimate government,” stated al-Hadi Idris, leader of a supporting faction.
The transitional government in Port Sudan continues to rely on international backing and membership in global organizations, despite being suspended from the African Union. Analysts suggest the RSF’s new initiative is primarily aimed at controlling humanitarian aid and accessing arms supplies, positioning themselves favorably for any future peace dialogues.
Military support for the RSF, including drones and defense systems, has been on the rise, as both factions acquire advanced weaponry. Idris, while refuting accusations of seeking arms for offensive purposes, emphasized the necessity for the RSF to defend its citizens against continuing violence.
In response, the army condemned the RSF’s charter, claiming it exacerbates the conflict during a time when the RSF is struggling militarily. The U.N. and the U.S. expressed concerns over the prospect of peace, with the U.S. considering the RSF’s actions detrimental to stability in Sudan.
The army has recently regained ground against the RSF in central Sudan, while the RSF continues to hold power in Darfur and West Kordofan, with the SPLM-N aligning itself with the RSF. This alliance is seen as a potential pathway to peace and access to essential resources after years of conflict, arguing for a federalist vision under the banner of a “New Sudan.”
The establishment of a parallel government by the RSF signals an escalation in the political landscape of Sudan, aiming to gain legitimacy and military support amid ongoing conflict. Amidst this turmoil, the RSF seeks to establish a framework for governance that challenges the authority of the army, which remains the internationally recognized power. The implications of these developments could prolong the conflict and further destabilize the region, raising concerns from international bodies.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
