Kenya’s Hosting of RSF Undermines Sudanese Peace Efforts

The Kenyan government’s decision to host the RSF, notorious for atrocities in Sudan, compromises Sudanese peace efforts and aligns Kenya with human rights violations. This move contradicts both the African Union’s initiatives for peace and Kenya’s commitments to justice. Concerns are raised over the potential consequences for Sudanese refugees in Kenya and the future of regional stability.

The Kenyan government’s controversial decision to allow the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), known for their violent actions in Sudan, to meet in Nairobi, raises serious ethical concerns. This choice aligns Kenya with mass atrocities against the Sudanese populace, undermining its declared commitments to peace and justice in the region. The RSF assembled on February 18, 2025, attempting to establish a parallel government, contravening Kenya’s obligations to foster stability and uphold democracy in Sudan.

This gathering occurred shortly after the African Union’s Peace and Security Council condemned external interference in Sudan’s conflict. The RSF’s actions directly oppose AU initiatives aimed at facilitating inclusive political dialogue to resolve the crisis. Kenya’s unilateral decision undermines African unity and peace-building efforts, contradicting values upheld by the African Union and diminishing trust in the region’s collective security framework.

According to a report from the UN’s Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan, the RSF and its affiliates have committed serious human rights violations, including war crimes, forced displacements, and crimes against civilians. These horrific actions have disproportionately targeted non-Arab communities such as the Masalit, highlighting the urgent need for accountability in the face of these ongoing atrocities.

On January 7, 2025, the U.S. government sanctioned RSF leader Mohammad Hamdan Dagalo Mousa, or Hemedti, for destabilizing Sudan and hindering its democratic progress. His brother, Abdelrahim Hamdan Dagalo, also faced sanctions for leading the RSF and overseeing a campaign of violence, which resulted in numerous civilian deaths. Kenya’s hosting of the RSF not only violates its international obligations but also seriously threatens Sudan’s sovereignty.

The RSF was engaged in acts of genocide, including massacres along ethnic lines, at the time of their Nairobi convening. They had killed over 433 civilians, including women and children, during a brutal three-day assault. Kenya acknowledged its facilitation of the RSF’s meeting through its political offices, which could strain the longstanding relations between Sudan and Kenya.

The Kenyan government’s actions contradict international peace and justice efforts, putting Sudanese refugees in Kenya at risk from those responsible for their torment. In light of this, Africa-based organizations are calling for urgent action from the AU Peace and Security Council to maintain a focus on inclusive peace processes and the importance of cooperation among member states.

In conclusion, Kenya’s decision to host the RSF has severely undermined the peace efforts in Sudan, violated international obligations, and raised significant ethical concerns. The Kenyan government is urged to retract its support for the RSF and recommit to fostering peace and stability in the region. The urgent call for accountability and respect for Sudan’s sovereignty must be heeded to ensure the protection of innocent lives and facilitate genuine dialogue for peace.

Original Source: khrc.or.ke