Al-Bara Ibn Malik Brigade: Sudan’s Largest Jihadist Group’s Role in Current Conflict

The al-Bara ibn Malik brigade, Sudan’s largest jihadist group, plans to disband after defeating the RSF. Comprised mainly of young, affluent men, the group claims allegiance to the SAF and denies aspirations for power. Although accused of atrocities, they emphasize their role in protecting civilians and express intent to demobilize post-conflict.

In Sudan, the largest jihadist group, the al-Bara ibn Malik brigade, has announced its intention to disband once it defeats the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Operating from unmarked offices in Port Sudan and comprised mostly of young men from affluent backgrounds, the group claims to act under the command of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) amid ongoing conflict with the RSF that began in April 2023. They assert that they will disband post-conflict, insisting they do not aspire to political power.

The al-Bara ibn Malik brigade originated from the Popular Defence Forces, an Islamist paramilitary group active during former leader Omar al-Bashir’s regime. Although the PDF was disbanded in 2019, the brigade resurfaced in 2023, particularly as the war emerged, actively recruiting in response to violence witnessed in various Sudanese states. The group’s spokesman, Amar Abdul Wahab Sid Ahmed, notes that their ranks now exceed 20,000 fighters, who represent diverse political backgrounds.

Despite their growing influence on social media and involvement in combat, the al-Bara ibn Malik brigade faces accusations of severe atrocities, which they vehemently deny. Sid Ahmed argues that these allegations are propaganda from the RSF, emphasizing that they operate under the SAF’s command and do not possess authority to detain individuals. The group seeks to portray itself as defenders of civilians, engaging in operations aimed at protecting them from the RSF’s actions, while maintaining a separation from any political affiliations.

As military operations evolve in Sudan, the al-Bara ibn Malik brigade has gained notoriety for its militant activity, although this has raised concerns regarding their extreme ideological stance. They have claimed significant successes against the RSF and publicly express their commitment to defeat what they describe as external threats to Sudan. The group’s leaders stress their eventual disbandment and prioritize humanitarian efforts alongside military objectives.

In summary, the al-Bara ibn Malik brigade is a prominent jihadist group in Sudan, currently engaged in conflict against the RSF. While they assert that they will disband following their victory and claim to operate under the SAF’s command, their involvement in alleged atrocities raises significant concerns. Their re-emergence and expansion illustrate the complex dynamics of Sudan’s current conflict, while they maintain a focus on military objectives rather than political ambitions.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net