Sudan’s paramilitary coalition launch parallel government, deepening the crisis

Sudan’s paramilitary coalition launch parallel government, deepening the crisis
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A paramilitary group in Sudan, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), along with its allies, has declared the formation of a parallel government in areas under its control, predominantly in the western Darfur region, Arab News reported. This region is currently under investigation for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The RSF-led Tasis Alliance appointed Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the commander of the RSF, as head of the sovereign council in the new administration. This 15-member council functions as the head of state. The RSF originated from the Janjaweed militias, notorious for mass killings and atrocities two decades ago during the Darfur conflict. The RSF has faced accusations of committing atrocities in the ongoing war, with the Biden administration imposing sanctions on Dagalo, alleging genocide, charges the RSF denies.

The announcement was made by alliance spokesman Alaa Al-Din Naqd in a video from Nyala, a city controlled by the RSF and allied Janjaweed forces. Mohammed Hassan Al-Taishi, a civilian politician formerly part of Sudan’s military-civilian sovereign council, was named prime minister. Rebel leader Abdelaziz Al-Hilu of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North was appointed deputy head of the council.

The RSF’s move follows a February charter signed in Nairobi to establish this parallel government. The internationally recognized Sudanese government condemned the RSF administration as “fake” and urged the global community not to engage with it. Analysts warn this development may deepen Sudan’s division and prolong conflict.