The leader of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo in a powerful speech on Monday said that the conflict was forced upon them by SAF and accused remnants of the former regime of igniting the war,
Dagalo said that despite RSF efforts to avoid conflict, they were left with no choice but to defend themselves after a treacherous attack.
As Sudan continues to be engulfed in violence due to the war that erupted 2023, RSF leader called for the formation of an international investigative committee to identify those responsible for starting the war and hold them accountable for the resulting devastation.
The RSF leader reiterated that there is no legitimate government in Sudan following October 25th 2021 coup and the April 2023 war, which have led to a complete constitutional breakdown in the country.
Dagalo dismissed the current administration, led by General Burhan, in Port Sudan as self-serving and accused them of exploiting the nation’s wealth.
Despite the ongoing conflict, the RSF leader highlighted the group’s consistent efforts to pursue peace, starting with their participation in the Saudi-American initiative and the signing of the Jeddah Declaration on May 11, 2024.
Dagalo expressed frustration over the repeated withdrawal of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) from ceasefire talks, attributing these actions to the influence of the Islamic Movement, which he says seeks to obstruct peace efforts.
The RSF leader also detailed their engagement in peace talks facilitated by various international and regional actors, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the Kingdom of Bahrain, and other Arab and Western nations.
However, he noted that these efforts were frequently undermined by the SAF’s reluctance to commit to peace agreements.
In a show of continued commitment to peace, the RSF leader announced their acceptance of an American invitation to hold ceasefire talks in Geneva on August 14th, reaffirming their dedication to ending the war and alleviating the suffering of millions of Sudanese.
RSF commander called on the General al-Burhan’s SAF to join the peace process, despite the RSF’s recent victories on the battlefield.
Acknowledging the severe impact of the war on the country’s security and stability, the RSF leader announced the formation of a special force dedicated to protecting civilians in areas under their control.
This force will focus on safeguarding lives and property, facilitating humanitarian operations, and ensuring the safe return of displaced persons.
Dagalo reiterated RSF’s commitment to a civilian-led government and a democratic transition in Sudan.
RSF leader underscored the importance of the military stepping back from political and economic roles to pave the way for a new Sudan founded on principles of freedom, social justice, and equality.
Dagalo vowed to persist in efforts to protect the lives and livelihoods of the Sudanese people, affirming that the RSF will fully support a just peace that tackles the underlying causes of the conflict and brings stability to the nation.
