Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) aim to legitimize their authority by creating a parallel government in Nairobi, despite ongoing conflict with the Sudanese army. RSF seeks to strengthen its position through diplomatic means and claims to be the legitimate government. While political alliances are formed, concerns remain regarding RSF’s history of violence and commitment to democratic governance.
Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have established a parallel government in Nairobi as part of their strategy to seize power and legitimize their authority in Sudan. Amidst ongoing conflict with the Sudanese army, the RSF is now pursuing diplomatic avenues to establish its dominance and maintain its status as the purported rightful government of Sudan. Insiders note that RSF is working to supplant the Sudanese Army’s influence at international forums such as the United Nations, seeking to solidify its claims to authority.
According to politician Ibrahim al-Mirghani, who endorses the new RSF-led government, recognition from neighboring countries hinges on achieving stability and reducing violence. He stated, “If you secure your country and stop the bloodshed, displacement, and terrorism… neighbours will recognise you.” This ambition reflects RSF’s broader strategy to portray itself as a legitimate governing entity amid efforts to consolidate military power.
RSF’s current approach focuses on rebranding itself in alignment with political entities such as Taqaddum, emphasizing its commitment to oversee Sudan’s civilian governance while reinforcing military strength. Al-Hadi Idris, a leader within the faction backing the proposed government, articulated that, “Militias are not given advanced weapons, but governments are… Our priority is peace, but the government must defend its citizens, and we have the right to acquire aircraft and defence systems.”
Moreover, RSF has clarified that while it does not intend to arm a governmental entity, it maintains the prerogative to procure resources for the protection of its populace. With a political charter recently signed in Nairobi, RSF aims to form a ‘Government of Peace and Unity’ in Sudan, asserting its position not as a secondary authority but as the legitimate government. Idris declared, “We are not a parallel government, and we are not a government in exile; we are the legitimate government.”
The charter’s signing event, which received backing from former Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, has drawn criticism for being an orchestrated maneuver to gain international legitimacy by RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti. The Sudanese military government has condemned the event, asserting the necessity for Kenya to refrain from intervening in Sudan’s domestic affairs, accusing it of favoritism towards RSF.
The political tension has positioned Kenya in a delicate diplomatic landscape, balancing its role as a peace broker with accusations of bias. Furthermore, RSF’s notorious human rights violations raise skepticism regarding their proclaimed democratic intentions, with past actions including mass killings and ethnic violence documented by the United Nations. Kenya has faced diplomatic backlash following its role in RSF’s activities, further complicating regional relationships amidst the ongoing conflict.
The situation surrounding Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) reflects a complex struggle for power and legitimacy against a backdrop of violence and political maneuvering. In their effort to consolidate authority, RSF has enacted a parallel government in Nairobi while attempting to gain international recognition. However, their controversial history amplifies concerns about a genuine commitment to democracy, complicating the ongoing struggle for stability in Sudan.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
