The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its allies have signed a "founding charter" to establish a breakaway government in Sudan, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from the African Union. The AU has firmly stated it does not recognize this so-called government or any parallel entity within the Republic of Sudan. This development threatens to further fragment the war-torn country, sparking fears of an impending partition.
"A huge risk of partitioning of the country," warned the African Union.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a brutal conflict between the paramilitary RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The war, originating from disagreements over the integration of the RSF into the army, has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced over 12 million people. The conflict has effectively torn the nation apart, with the military now controlling eastern and northern regions, while the RSF dominates western Darfur and large parts of the south.
The announcement of a parallel government adds to the complexity of Sudan's ongoing crisis. The African Union has urged member states and international partners to refrain from recognizing any entity that might lead to the partitioning of Sudan.
The African Union emphasized, "not to recognise any government or parallel entity aimed at partitioning … the Republic of Sudan or its institutions."
The international community remains concerned about Sudan's stability and unity. The European Union reiterated its commitment to preserving the "unity and territorial integrity of Sudan." Meanwhile, Volker Turk, the UN rights chief, issued a stark warning about the gravity of Sudan's situation.
Turk cautioned that Sudan is "looking into the abyss" and facing "the biggest displacement crisis in the world."
The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, with nearly 25 million people grappling with severe food insecurity. Alarmingly, 600,000 individuals are teetering on the brink of starvation.
