RSF’s Attempt to Form Parallel Government Raises Alarms in Sudan

The RSF’s recent declaration of a parallel government in Sudan has provoked significant concern both internally and globally, indicating potential for deeper national division. The signing of a political charter has prompted the Sudanese government to label it as illegitimate. The ongoing conflict has resulted in extensive casualties and displacement, with warnings about the dangers of dual governance amid escalating tensions with neighboring Kenya.

KHARTOUM, Feb. 28 — The recent initiative by Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to establish a “parallel government” has raised alarms both domestically and internationally about the potential for increased fragmentation in the war-torn nation. This move follows the signing of a “political charter” in Kenya on February 22, which the Sudanese government has characterized as “stillborn.”

Sudan has been entrenched in conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF for nearly two years, with violence escalating since April 2023 and resulting in more than 29,600 deaths and the displacement of over 15 million individuals, according to crisis monitoring agencies. Political analyst Abdul-Raziq Ziyada noted that this charter reflects an unfortunate reality stemming from the failure of various political settlement attempts.

The charter’s signing signals an escalation in the conflict and a possible change in the power dynamics within Sudan. Khalid Dirar, a political scientist, emphasized the evident signs of division emerging in the country and warned that the RSF’s actions should not be overlooked, as they may significantly alter the balance of power.

Military expert Ahmed Ismail indicated that the RSF’s attempt to establish a parallel government could facilitate its expansion beyond the Darfur region, posing new threats to Sudan’s stability. Analyst Abdul-Rahman Awad cautioned that the formation of two competing governments would have severe political, security, and economic implications.

Political analyst Abdul-Khaliq Mahjoub expressed skepticism about the success of the RSF’s government due to the ongoing military developments, particularly the SAF’s advancements in the Darfur region.

On the international front, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed profound concern regarding this escalation, reminding that preserving Sudan’s unity and sovereignty is crucial for achieving sustainable peace in the region. Saudi Arabia has also condemned the initiative, emphasizing that such actions undermine the existing governmental framework and do not represent the will of the Sudanese populace.

Furthermore, Sudan’s engagement with Kenya has become strained following the signing of the charter in Nairobi. The Sudanese government has criticized Kenya for hosting discussions involving RSF affiliates and has warned of implementing economic sanctions, including the potential ban on Kenyan imports, further illustrating the deteriorating relations between the two countries.

The declaration of a parallel government by the RSF signals a troubling escalation in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, exacerbating existing divisions. Expert analyses indicate that this move can lead to changes in power dynamics and has profound implications for Sudan’s governance. The international community, represented by key figures such as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Saudi Arabian officials, has expressed concerns about the resultant fragmentation. The tension with Kenya highlights the broader ramifications of these developments.

Original Source: english.news.cn