Minni Arko Minnawi, the governor of Darfur, termed the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as the “largest explosion” in Sudan’s history, cautioning about the potential uncontrollable escalation between the two factions.
Addressing a press briefing in Addis Ababa, Minnawi emphasized his communication with both the Army and RSF, highlighting his recent conversation with RSF Commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti) on Tuesday.
Expressing apprehensions about the conflict’s trajectory, Minnawi voiced uncertainty regarding Sudan’s future, questioning whether the nation would remain unified or splinter into states, emirates, or cantons.
“We are all seeking to reach a single future for Sudan, because the conflict can slide in directions that may get out the control of the warring parties,” he said.
The Darfur Regional Government leader urged civil political entities and influential figures to unite for the country’s sovereignty and integrity. He advocated for an inclusive national dialogue to find lasting resolutions to Sudan’s challenges.
Describing the Darfur situation as critical, Minnawi depicted a landscape where the Rapid Support Forces had taken control, leaving the army absent, thereby making displaced camps safer than cities.
“There are about four million displaced people, and the capital, El Fasher, has turned into a large displacement camp,” he said.
While holding the RSF allied tribes accountable for war violations, Minnawi implicated the army for its use of artillery and aircraft bombardment.
Acknowledging authorities’ efforts to prevent clashes in Darfur, he urged both sides to implement a ceasefire, warning that any citizen attacks would not go unanswered.
“If citizens are attacked, we will not remain neutral, and we hope such attacks will not occur,” Minnawi said.
