The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are tightening their grip across parts of Sudan, escalating their challenge to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s SAF junta. By declaring a rival administration, the RSF has taken a bold step to formalise its authority, deepening political fractures in the war-torn nation.
Burhan-led Foreign Ministry denounced the move, accusing the RSF of exploiting the conflict to cement illegitimate power. The Port Sudan junta also criticised Kenya for hosting the RSF-backed meetings in Nairobi, labelling them a direct threat to Sudan’s sovereignty.
Led by commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the RSF and its allied Sudanese Founding Alliance unveiled the civilian government on Saturday. Their February 22 charter, signed in Nairobi, laid the foundation for an alternative authority aimed at challenging the junta-led state.
Since April 2023, fighting between the Burhan-controlled army (SAF) and RSF has plunged the country into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The United Nations reports over 20,000 deaths and 14 million displaced, though US researchers suggest fatalities may exceed 130,000.
As the RSF expands its political reach, the Burhan’s Port Sudan junta faces a growing battle not just on the battlefield — but for the soul of the nation.
