Sudan’s RSF and Allies Establish Framework for Parallel Government

Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied factions have signed a transitional constitution aimed at establishing a parallel government during the ongoing conflict with the army. This development introduces a federal, secular governance model while outlining a path for self-determination and the formation of a unified national army. The RSF’s recent military actions and plans for a government signal a critical escalation in the conflict that threatens the nation’s stability.

On Tuesday, Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and associated factions formalized their intentions to establish a parallel government by signing a transitional constitution. This development occurs amidst a prolonged conflict with the Sudanese army that has led to widespread displacement and severe humanitarian crises within the nation.

The RSF has faced significant setbacks in the ongoing war, characterized by ethnic violence and hunger crises. Concurrently, the RSF executed a recent drone strike targeting key power infrastructure at the Merowe Dam, resulting in extensive power outages across northern Sudan, as reported by the army.

The army has reported advances in the Sharg el-Nil region, seeking to encircle RSF forces in Khartoum. The newly drafted constitution aims to replace a previous constitution established following the 2019 ousting of former leader Omar al-Bashir. The power struggle between the RSF and the army intensified subsequent to the 2021 coup that abolished progress toward civilian governance.

In February, the RSF and its allies initiated plans to form a government for a “New Sudan,” intending to create a separate legitimacy from the army-led government and allowing for advanced arms imports. The new constitution lays out provisions for a federal, secular state divided into eight regions, including a bill of rights and a pathway to self-determination for regions under specific conditions.

It also proposes the formation of a unified national army with the RSF as its foundational element, while emphasizing the requirement for elections after the transitional phase, although a specific timeline remains unspecified. Key signatories to the constitution include the SPLM-N, a significant force controlling regions in South Kordofan, among other smaller groups.

The RSF and its allied factions have announced that a government is expected to be established in the following weeks, although the specific composition and operational location of this government remain uncertain.

In summary, the RSF and its allies have taken significant strides towards establishing a parallel government in Sudan by signing a new transitional constitution amidst ongoing conflict with the army. The proposed government aims for a federal structure, promoting secularism and self-determination, yet it faces challenges in its implementation and legitimacy. The situation continues to evolve as the nation grapples with humanitarian crises and power struggles.

Original Source: www.usnews.com