Rival Government Declared by Sudanese Paramilitaries Amid Ongoing Crisis

Sudan's paramilitary forces intensify their bid for power by establishing a rival government, further complicating a humanitarian disaster worsening over two years of conflict.

Sudanese paramilitary forces, led by Mohamed Hamdan "Hemedti" Dagalo, have announced the formation of a rival government in a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict against the national armed forces. This declaration comes as the war, now in its second year, has resulted in one of the globe's most severe humanitarian crises. Hemedti claims that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are working towards "the only realistic future for Sudan," emphasizing a commitment to building a "state of law" that transcends tribal, regional, or religious identities.

Hemedti's announcement was made during an international conference in London aimed at addressing the second anniversary of the conflict. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy highlighted the urgency for "a pathway to peace" amidst rampant violence and displacement. Intense battles continue, with the Sudanese army reportedly conducting airstrikes on RSF positions around el-Fasher, leading to escalated civilian displacement from the nearby Zamzam refugee camp.

Recent reports from the UN indicate that over 400 lives have been claimed by RSF's recent attacks, and as many as 150,000 fatalities have occurred since the outbreak of hostilities. The RSF and the army both face accusations of war crimes, including genocide and widespread sexual violence. Since the beginning of their power struggle on April 15, 2023, more than 12 million people have been forced from their homes, and half a million are facing famine-like conditions in temporary camps around el-Fasher.

Victims fleeing from violence have been forced to undertake perilous journeys, with medical charities like MSF documenting devastating health crises, including dehydration and child fatalities. The international community has reacted, with the UK pledging an additional £120 million ($159 million) in food and medical aid, urging for immediate action to assist those suffering in the conflict. Lammy’s comments emphasized the moral imperative to respond to the ongoing humanitarian disaster, condemning the neglect of the situation.

While discussions for a permanent ceasefire are ongoing, the African Union stands firm against any fragmentation of Sudan by the contending forces.