Sudan’s paramilitary force, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), is strengthening its grip on power after setting up a parallel government in Nairobi. This move is seen as part of a broader strategy to gain legitimacy and take full control of Sudan’s political landscape.
Locked in a fierce war against Sudan’s army, RSF is now focusing on diplomatic efforts to position itself as the dominant force in Sudan’s future. According to insiders, RSF’s ultimate goal is to replace the Sudanese army as the recognized government on the international stage, including at the United Nations and other global forums.
RSF’s Strategy to Gain Legitimacy
Officials who spoke to Reuters revealed that RSF is determined to project itself as Sudan’s rightful government. By using political alliances and diplomatic channels, the paramilitary group aims to weaken the Sudanese army’s hold on power and win international recognition.
“If you bring peace to your country and stop bloodshed, displacement, and terrorism, then your neighbors will acknowledge you,” said Ibrahim al-Mirghani, a politician supporting RSF’s newly declared government.
RSF is working to transform its image from that of a rogue militia into a legitimate governing authority. By aligning with politicians in Taqaddum, a coalition of civil and democratic forces, RSF is positioning itself as the leader of Sudan’s civilian transition. This strategy not only strengthens its political standing but also allows it to consolidate its military dominance.
“Militias do not receive advanced weapons, but governments do,” said al-Hadi Idris, the leader of an armed faction backing the RSF-led government. “Our priority is peace, but every government has a duty to protect its citizens. We have the right to acquire aircraft and defense systems for national security.”
Although RSF has denied forming a government to import weapons, its leaders insist that any legitimate administration must have the authority to acquire arms for national defense.
RSF’s Political Move in Nairobi
Last month, RSF signed a political agreement in Nairobi with various political parties and armed groups, laying the foundation for a parallel government. The signatories stated that a “Government of Peace and Unity” would be formed within weeks from inside Sudan.
However, RSF leaders have gone a step further, declaring themselves as Sudan’s legitimate government rather than a parallel administration. “We are not a government in exile, nor are we a parallel government; we are the rightful government of Sudan,” said Idris.
The Nairobi event marked a significant political shift, as RSF-backed Sudanese Coordination of Civil Democratic Forces (Taqaddum) launched a political charter. Former Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, who leads the coalition, described the move as a foundation for a democratic and civilian-led Sudan.
Critics View RSF’s Move as a Power Grab
Despite RSF’s efforts to rebrand itself as a democratic force, critics argue that the Nairobi agreement was a carefully planned power move by RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, widely known as Hemedti. Many believe the real intention behind the event was to secure international recognition for RSF’s rule.
Sudan’s military leadership swiftly condemned the signing, accusing Kenya of siding with RSF in the ongoing conflict. The Sudanese army-controlled government has previously warned Nairobi against meddling in its internal affairs.
“Kenya has clearly taken sides in this war,” a Sudanese government official told Reuters, highlighting the growing tensions between Khartoum and Nairobi. Kenya’s involvement in the crisis has put it in a difficult diplomatic position, as it struggles to maintain its role as a regional mediator while facing accusations of bias.
RSF’s Dark History Raises Concerns
Despite its push for legitimacy, RSF’s brutal past casts doubt on its commitment to democracy. The group has been accused of committing serious war crimes, including mass killings and ethnic violence in Sudan’s Darfur region. A United Nations report documented horrific abuses by RSF fighters, raising fears that the group’s diplomatic efforts are simply a cover for more authoritarian ambitions.
Kenya’s role in RSF’s political strategy cannot be ignored. By hosting the signing event, Nairobi has angered Sudan’s army, which sees Kenya as actively supporting RSF’s takeover. This has led to a diplomatic fallout, with Khartoum expelling Kenya’s ambassador as tensions between the two countries continue to rise.
However, Kenya maintains that its involvement is purely diplomatic. President William Ruto has repeatedly emphasized Kenya’s commitment to regional peace and stability. Yet, with Sudan’s conflict deepening, RSF’s latest move could further complicate the power struggle and reshape the future of the war-torn country.
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