The paramilitary RSF’s initiative to establish a “parallel government” in Sudan has raised significant alarms over potential escalation in the ongoing conflict with the SAF. This move follows nearly two years of violence, resulting in substantial casualties and displacement. Experts warn of severe consequences, including political and economic disruptions. International figures, such as UN Secretary-General Guterres and the Saudi Foreign Ministry, have expressed strong opposition to the initiative.
On February 22, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied entities in Sudan signed a political charter in Kenya, aiming to establish a “parallel government.” This action has raised significant concern regarding deeper divisions within Sudan, which has been embroiled in conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) for nearly two years. Existing disparities have become more pronounced, particularly as violence since April 2023 has resulted in over 29,600 fatalities and the displacement of over 15 million individuals.
Political analysts, including Abdul-Raziq Ziyada, attribute the RSF’s charter initiative to the failure of political resolutions to end the ongoing conflict. Ziyada described the situation as reflective of both sides reaching entrenched positions. Khalid Dirar, a political science scholar, expressed that this charter represents a shift in power dynamics and highlights the growing factionalism within Sudan.
Experts have warned that the establishment of a “parallel government” may exacerbate existing turmoil. Ahmed Ismail, a military expert, noted that the RSF’s territorial traction beyond the Darfur region poses significant risks. Abdul-Rahman Awad cautioned that a bifurcated government structure would yield severe political, security, and economic implications for an already fragile Sudan.
Despite these developments, some analysts predict challenges ahead for the RSF’s ambitions. Abdul-Khaliq Mahjoub stated that military developments, particularly the SAF’s ongoing advancements, may hinder the RSF’s attempts at governance. This reality presents obstacles to their operational viability in the face of SAF strategies on the battlefield.
Broadly, international reactions have followed. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed that the charter’s signing could further fragment Sudan and complicate the crisis. His emphasis on maintaining the country’s unity and sovereignty resonates with the sentiments of neighboring states as well.
Saudi Arabia, involved in mediating discussions between Sudan’s conflicting parties, has explicitly opposed the formation of a parallel government. The Saudi Foreign Ministry stated that measures undertaken outside the Sudanese governmental framework undermine national unity and do not represent the populace’s will.
Consequently, this situation has incited diplomatic tensions between Sudan and Kenya, where the charter was signed. Following the signing, Sudan’s government summoned its Ambassador to Kenya for consultations, condemning Kenya for hosting RSF-related meetings as an act of hostility. Sudan has announced intentions to initiate economic countermeasures against Kenya, including potentially restricting imports from there.
The formation of a “parallel government” by Sudan’s RSF has escalated concerns about the nation’s deepening divisions. As violence continues between the RSF and SAF, the prospected governance structure could lead to further complications in political, economic, and security arenas. With international condemnation and potential economic repercussions looming, Sudan’s crisis appears increasingly complex and precarious.
Original Source: english.news.cn
