Sudan’s RSF Leader Declares Continued Conflict with Army

Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the leader of Sudan’s RSF, stated that his forces are not finished and plan to return to Khartoum despite a recent military setback. The Sudanese army is consolidating control over the capital, and army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has ruled out reconciliation with the RSF. The ongoing conflict has caused significant displacement and humanitarian crises in Sudan.

The chief of Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has declared that hostilities with the army are not concluded. Despite being largely expelled from Khartoum, Dagalo stated his intent to return to the capital. This announcement marks his first public comment since the military’s recent advances against the RSF.

In an audio message via Telegram, Dagalo acknowledged the RSF’s recent tactical withdrawal from Khartoum to Omdurman, which he characterized as a strategic decision. He conveyed confidence, affirming that his forces would re-enter Khartoum “stronger, more powerful and victorious.”

The Sudanese army has been solidifying its control, having recently seized a significant market in Omdurman that was previously utilized by the RSF. With much of Omdurman already under its command, the army aims to secure complete control over the capital, which comprises Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri. Some RSF territory remains in Omdurman.

On the military front, army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has dismissed any prospects of reconciliation with the RSF, emphasizing a commitment to defeat the paramilitary group’s influence. The ongoing conflict arises from a power struggle in the lead-up to a proposed transition to civilian governance, resulting in widespread devastation in Khartoum and displacing over 12 million people. Approximately half of Sudan’s population is currently facing severe food shortages, and earlier estimates suggest the death toll could have reached 61,000 in Khartoum state alone over 14 months of fighting.

In summary, the conflict between Sudan’s RSF and army continues unabated, with Dagalo promising a resurgence in Khartoum despite recent losses. The army’s consolidation efforts aim for full control of the capital, while humanitarian conditions for the Sudanese populace deteriorate. As the power struggle persists, the prospect of reconciliation remains bleak, heightening the urgency for a resolution to restore stability and address the humanitarian crisis.

Original Source: www.usnews.com