Two militant factions originating from Sudan’s Darfur area have declared their intention to join forces with the national army in the ongoing civil conflict within the country.
The announcement comes following significant advancements made by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Darfur.
According to militia leader Gibril Ibrahim speaking to BBC Newsday, their objective is to safeguard their civilians from the RSF.
He said the decision to join forces with the army was not an easy one.
The head of the Justice and Equality Movement (Jem) mentioned that it took seven months to reach a consensus/agreement.
Tensions between Jem and the Sudanese army are strained. Ibrahim’s brother, who was previously the group’s leader, was killed by the army, exacerbating the situation.
But the conflict in Sudan is extremely complicated with loyalties of various tribes and militias in the country constantly shifting as the situation on the ground changes or whoever pays the highest price for recruitment.
A joint statement from Jem and the SLM read: “We have announced ending any neutrality and joining the military operations at all frontlines without hesitation.”
RSF has been accused of crimes against black African groups as they gained ground in Darfur.
The RSF has denied responsibility for the killings and has offered its support to any independent investigation into the alleged atrocities.
The group also maintains that killings being carried out in Darfur are due to a power vacuum and are fueled by decades-long tribal conflicts and tensions and has nothing to do with their forces.
