UN Security Council Voices Concerns Over Sudan’s Fragmentation

Key members of the UN Security Council expressed serious concerns over the RSF’s establishment of a parallel government in Sudan, which threatens the country’s unity and peace. Kenya faced accusations of recognition, which it denied. The ongoing conflict in Sudan has claimed many lives and sparked a major displacement crisis, raising alarms among international representatives regarding civilian safety and the necessity for cooperation to ensure stability.

In a recent UN Security Council meeting, numerous members expressed apprehension regarding the formation of a parallel government by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan. This declaration has heightened diplomatic tensions between Sudan and Kenya, as RSF insurgents and their associates announced their intention to create a rival government. Their agreement, established in private discussions in Nairobi, purportedly aims to form a “government of peace and unity” in rebel-held territories of Sudan.

US Representative John Kelley asserted that the actions by the RSF and associated entities were detrimental to peace and security within Sudan, warning that they may lead to a de facto partition of the nation. British Ambassador Barbara Woodward echoed these concerns, emphasizing the importance of respecting Sudan’s foundational principles, including its sovereignty and territorial integrity, to achieve a sustainable resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Support for this sentiment came from representatives of France and China. Chinese Ambassador Fu Cong highlighted that the RSF’s recent maneuvers risk exacerbating Sudan’s fragmentation. Deputy Algerian Ambassador Toufik Laid Koudri, representing several African nations, urged the RSF and its allies to prioritize Sudan’s national unity and interests above all else.

Sudan’s envoy to the UN, Al-Harith Idriss Al-Harith Mohamed, denounced the formation of this parallel government as a grave infringement of the UN Charter and the African Union constitution, accusing Kenya of taking actions to dismantle Sudan’s unity. However, Kenyan Ambassador Erastus Lokaale refuted these allegations, asserting that Kenya has not recognized any independent entities in Sudan or elsewhere.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has resulted in substantial loss of life and one of the world’s most significant displacement crises, was triggered by a power struggle between military leaders Burhan and Dagalo regarding governmental structure. Both factions have faced serious accusations related to civilian atrocities, prompting US sanctions against their leaders.

The unfolding situation in Sudan, marked by the RSF’s declaration of a parallel government, poses significant risks to the country’s peace and sovereignty. The UN Security Council members have unanimously called for respect for Sudan’s territorial integrity and national unity to avert further fragmentation of the nation. As diplomatic tensions rise, it is crucial for Sudan’s leaders and regional partners to prioritize peace and collaboration to address the dire humanitarian crisis stemming from the ongoing conflict.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com