The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have expressed their appreciation for recent international attention towards the ongoing conflict in Sudan, highlighted by statements from the African Peace and Security Council and US President Joe Biden.
This marks the first time since the onset of the conflict that President Biden has addressed the crisis in Sudan.
RSF leader Dagalo emphasized on Thursday that the current crisis has escalated to a level requiring urgent and coordinated international intervention to halt the war, which he described as the most severe crisis in Sudanese history.
Dagalo reaffirmed that the RSF’s stance has always been in favor of peace and democratic governance. He attributed the war to those obstructing the political settlement process, particularly the remnants of the former Islamic Movement who now control the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
He stated that these elements have thwarted the Framework Agreement designed to return Sudan to a transitional civilian path.
Despite numerous efforts to restore civilian rule and end the conflict, including engagements in the Jeddah and Manama negotiations, the RSF has faced repeated setbacks due to the absence of the SAF’ representatives.
Dagalo criticized the SAF for their lack of participation and alleged that they are driven by the old regime’s interests rather than the welfare of the Sudanese people.
In Geneva, the RSF made humanitarian commitments and took steps to address the crisis independently, including forming a civilian protection force. They also participated in humanitarian negotiations at the UN’s invitation.
The RSF’s statement included several key points:
- Commitment to Peace: The RSF reiterated their dedication to protecting civilians and ensuring humanitarian aid reaches those in need, as outlined in recent negotiations.
- Humanitarian Aid: They acknowledged the challenges in aid delivery and expressed their willingness to collaborate with international partners to improve access.
- Focus on El Fasher: The RSF proposed the withdrawal of both the Armed Forces and RSF from El Fasher to allow neutral armed groups to maintain security and deliver aid, but this proposal was rejected by the Armed Forces.
- Condemnation of Aerial Bombardment: The RSF condemned the Sudanese Armed Forces’ indiscriminate bombings, calling for international investigations and accountability for these violations of humanitarian law.
- Ceasefire Negotiations: They remain committed to dialogue and peace processes, emphasizing that a peaceful resolution is necessary for Sudan’s future.
- Transition to Civilian Rule: The RSF supports an inclusive political process but insists that the National Congress Party should not be part of it. They advocate for a new civilian government to dismantle the old regime.
- International Pressure: They called on the international community to apply coordinated pressure on the Armed Forces and their allies to end the conflict.
The RSF concluded by reaffirming their commitment to peace and readiness to declare a ceasefire across all of Sudan, emphasizing their dedication to humanitarian efforts and comprehensive political talks aimed at establishing a civilian government and achieving lasting peace.
