Introduction
In a remarkable development that could further deepen Sudan's existing crisis, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their allies have signed a charter to establish a parallel government. The signing in Nairobi, Kenya, is a turning point in the nearly two-year-long war that has left over 12 million people displaced and created what the United Nations describes as the world's worst hunger and displacement crisis.
The move has raised fears of further fragmentation in Sudan, with the war between the RSF and regular forces not appearing to stop.
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RSF and Allies Announce a "Government of Peace and Unity"
The new charter, signed on February 22, 2025, in Nairobi, forms the basis of what the RSF and its supporters refer to as a "government of peace and unity" in the territories under their control. The signing, which had been delayed several times, was eventually conducted behind closed doors, sources privy to the negotiations indicate.
A draft of the charter, obtained by AFP, outlines visions for a secular, democratic, and decentralized state free from ethnic, religious, or regional biases. It also calls for a new "new, unified, professional, national army" with a military doctrine reflecting Sudan's diversity of ethnicity and culture.
Among the signatories are the group of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, which controls vast areas of land in Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile states. Of particular note is Abdel Rahim Daglo, deputy commander of the RSF and brother of Mohamed Hamdan "Hemedti" Daglo, who signed the charter as well, although Hemedti did not attend.
Key Objectives of the Proposed Government
The RSF-led government aims to:
- End the war and promote peace across Sudan.
- Provide unimpeded humanitarian aid to reach millions affected by the crisis.
- Enroll military personnel into an integrated national security force.
- Establish a decentralized system of governance founded on democratic values.
But this introduces another layer of complexity to the already fragmented political landscape in Sudan.
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Enlarging Rifts Among Sudanese Political Parties
The creation of a rival government has fueled intramural clashes within Sudan's biggest civilian alliance, Taqadum, which was initially working toward one shared democratic change.
The coalition has now formed two competing factions:
- Sudan Founding Alliance (TASIS) – in league with RSF and leading the charge to form the new government.
- Civilian Democratic Alliance for Revolutionary Powers (Sumud) – led by former Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok, opposed to the RSF's action.
This political fragmentation also eliminates opportunities for a negotiated end to the conflict since Sudanese civilians become victims of large-scale displacement, famine, and war crimes.
International Growing Concerns Regarding Sudan's Disintegration
Global observers have been concerned with the latest developments. The United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), and Western governments warned that the formation of an alternative government can lead to a long-term civil war.
The war, which began in April 2023, has destroyed Sudan's economy and infrastructure. The UN puts the number of people who have fled Sudan at over 5 million, another 7 million are internally displaced, and with life-threatening levels of food shortage.
The United States, European Union, and African regional leaders have continued to call for a ceasefire, but diplomacy has largely failed.
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What's Next for Sudan?
With two competing authorities vying for control, Sudan is threatened with plunging further into chaos. The RSF and their supporters have declared their intention to close power in the regions they control, while the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan remain resolute about exercising state control everywhere.
Most experts worry that if an all-encompassing peace treaty is not signed, Sudan may slip into an extended war like Libya or Syria.
For the latest developments, check:
- United Nations Sudan Crisis Report
- African Union Conflict Resolution Updates
- Reuters Sudan War Coverage
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Conclusion
The formation of a parallel government by the RSF and its allies is an important development in Sudan's crisis. While the move is directed towards the formation of governance in rebel-held areas, it can potentially destabilize the nation further and ratchet up conflict with the Sudanese Armed Forces.
As the humanitarian crisis in Sudan intensifies, the world community needs to double its efforts to achieve a permanent peace accord before the country plunges into an irretrievable state of war and collapse.