The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have issued a statement responding to remarks by World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus regarding alleged attacks on healthcare facilities in Sudan since January.
In the statement, the RSF said it had followed with concern what it described as “biased statements” by the WHO chief, particularly claims that more than 1,600 people had been killed in alleged attacks on healthcare facilities since the beginning of the year.
According to the RSF, the figures and allegations raise “serious questions” about their accuracy and sources. The statement argued that many of the reports circulating internationally rely on claims issued by entities and networks that present themselves as part of the health sector but allegedly operate as political or security fronts with links to intelligence bodies and offices affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood-aligned SAF, which the RSF described as a designated terrorist organization.
The RSF said such alleged affiliations undermine the neutrality and professionalism of the reports cited in international forums.
The statement further asserted that RSF forces remain fully committed to protecting healthcare facilities and ensuring the safety of medical personnel. It pointed to what it described as ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Health under the “Peace Government” in Darfur to maintain and develop health services despite what it called exceptional circumstances.
Emphasizing its support for humanitarian action and cooperation with international institutions, the RSF called on the World Health Organization and other international partners to adhere to the highest standards of neutrality and objectivity. It also urged broader field verification and consultation with all relevant parties, saying this would contribute to civilian protection and support Sudan’s healthcare system.
