The African Union has warned that the establishment of a parallel government by the RSF in Sudan may lead to the country’s partition amidst an ongoing brutal conflict. This turmoil has resulted in extensive casualties and displacement. Calls have been made for international non-recognition of any partitioning efforts, coinciding with severe humanitarian concerns faced by a significant portion of the Sudanese population.
The African Union (AU) recently expressed alarm regarding a parallel government announced in Sudan by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), warning that it could lead to the country’s partition. This conflict has persisted since April 2023, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and displacing over 12 million individuals. The RSF is currently engaged in fierce combat with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
The violence emerged from disputes about the RSF’s integration into the military, dividing control of the nation, with the SAF dominating the east and north while the RSF controls most of western Darfur and parts of the southern region. Accusations of war crimes have been directed at both factions.
In September, the RSF and its associates formalized their parallel government intentions in Nairobi by signing a “founding charter”. The AU condemned this development, asserting that it perilously threatens the unity of Sudan. Signatories of the charter aim to develop a “government of peace and unity” in areas under rebel control, proposing the establishment of a secular, democratic state based on equity and justice.
Moreover, in early March, the RSF and allies agreed to a “Transitional Constitution” in Nairobi. The AU urged its member countries and the broader international community not to acknowledge any parallel entity that seeks to partition Sudan. Additionally, the European Union reiterated its commitment to the unity of Sudan, recognizing the RSF’s actions as detrimental to the country’s democratic objectives.
The international response includes a warning from the UN Security Council, which expressed deep concern over the move, indicating that it could aggravate the already severe humanitarian crisis. This situation has led Khartoum to pursue a case against the UAE in the International Court of Justice, alleging complicity in genocide through support for the RSF. The UAE has dismissed these claims. Other nations, including Egypt and Turkey, have also been implicated in supporting various factions of the conflict.
The ongoing turmoil has created a critical humanitarian emergency in Sudan, with the UN declaring it an unprecedented crisis on the African continent. Famine conditions are emerging in several regions, with figures indicating that approximately 25 million individuals are facing significant food insecurity.
The African Union’s warnings regarding the potential partition of Sudan highlight the escalating conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces, which has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis. With international voices, including the European Union and the UN, expressing concerns, the situation necessitates urgent attention to prevent further disintegration of the nation. The international community must ensure that any governmental recognition aligns with the preservation of Sudan’s unity and support peaceful resolutions.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
