UN Security Council Condemns RSF’s Parallel Government as Sudan Faces Crisis

The UN Security Council condemned the RSF’s formation of a parallel government in Sudan, highlighting the exacerbation of violence transforming the country into a ‘hellscape.’ Council members expressed concerns over national fragmentation and the urgent need for humanitarian aid amidst a deteriorating situation for millions. Calls for a ceasefire and unity were emphasized to prevent further destabilization.

The United Nations Security Council has condemned the formation of a parallel government in Sudan established by the militia group, Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemeti. UN representatives have described the relentless conflicts in Sudan as having transformed the nation into a “hellscape.” This condemnation follows a charter signed by the RSF and its allies, including the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), which seeks to govern territories under their control.

During a meeting on February 26, 2023, the 15 Security Council members expressed deep concern over the escalating violence. The RSF’s partnership with SPLM-N expands its control in southern Sudan and along borders with Libya, Chad, Central African Republic, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. The ongoing conflicts pose a significant risk of fragmenting the nation further, an issue emphasized by various council members.

John Kelley, the United States representative, cautioned that the RSF’s attempts to establish a government could lead to a de facto partition of Sudan. British Ambassador Barbara Woodward echoed this sentiment, stating that increased divisions might fuel further regional destabilization. Additionally, Chinese Ambassador Fu Cong warned that the charter could increase Sudan’s fragmentation, while Algeria’s representative called the situation a perilous development.

French representative Jay Dharmadhikari called for a ceasefire across Sudan, particularly during Ramadan, aligning with the appeals of the African Union and the UN. The Sudanese government has accused Kenya of supporting the RSF following their charter signing, leading to the recall of Sudan’s ambassador from Nairobi. The United Arab Emirates has also faced allegations from the UN and the US regarding arms supply to the RSF, which the UAE denies.

Edem Wosornu, OCHA’s operations director, informed UN members that a humanitarian appeal of $6 billion is urgently needed to support approximately 21 million individuals within Sudan and an additional five million in neighboring countries. The current humanitarian situation has deteriorated significantly, with intensified fighting in North Darfur causing the temporary suspension of food aid to the Zamzam displacement camp, which houses around half a million people.

In summary, the UN Security Council has expressed alarm over the formation of a parallel government by the RSF in Sudan, highlighting the risks of national fragmentation and increased violence. Key representatives called for unity, a ceasefire, and underscored the urgent humanitarian needs as conditions worsen in the country. The situation remains dire for millions of people affected by ongoing conflicts.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr