Military and Paramilitary Clashes Leave Dozens Dead in Sudan
Sudan is once again facing political turmoil and violence between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group. On Sunday, a second day of intense fighting left at least 56 civilians dead and close to 600 people injured, according to the Sudan Doctors’ Syndicate. The clashes not only threaten Sudan’s transition to democracy but also endanger its stability.
The clashes between the military and the RSF exploded around strategic locations such as the military headquarters, Khartoum International Airport, and state television headquarters. Both factions claimed control over key installations in Khartoum, although their claims could not be independently verified. These recent tensions stem from disagreement over how the RSF should be integrated into the armed forces as a condition of Sudan’s unsigned transition agreement with political groups.
Pro-democracy activists blame the military and RSF for abuses against protesters over the past four years, including the deadly break-up of a protest camp in 2019 and atrocities in the Darfur conflict. The rising tensions over the RSF’s integration into the military delayed the signing of an internationally backed agreement on a transition to democracy.
Air Strikes on RSF’s Base Heightens Tensions in Khartoum
On Saturday, Sudan’s army launched air strikes on the RSF’s base near Khartoum, heightening tensions between both factions. The army struck a base belonging to the RSF in Omdurman City before claiming control over key installations in Khartoum. The recent tension has been brewing since Hamdok’s resignation and lasted until this week when it finally exploded into direct confrontation.
The Rapid Support Forces is led by deputy leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, but there has been competition for power with the military since political factions have been negotiating to form a transitional government. However, the army reported that “the hour of victory is near” and blamed the RSF for taking a “reckless adventure.”
Diplomatic Pressure Mounts Amidst Violence in Sudan
As clashes continued to escalate between both factions, international powers such as the US, China, Russia, Egypt, and the UN appealed for an immediate end to hostilities. Diplomats from Arab states with stakes in Sudan also urged sides to stop fighting amidst fears of another civil war.
The U.N. Security Council issued a statement condemning violence and urging talks to avoid escalation. Meanwhile, Antony J. Blinken spoke to his counterparts in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for negotiations and an immediate end to the fighting.
Sudan’s Fragile Transition to Democracy in Doubt
Sudan was an inspiration in Africa and the Arab world after the fall of President Omar Hassan al-Bashir; however, its revolution faltered after two powerful generals seized power in a coup. Pro-democracy protesters refuse to back down amid rising tensions between the military and RSF.
Sudan has had more successful coups than any other African country; however, none of these coups involved intensive combat between two wings of the armed forces in the center of the capital. A protracted confrontation could derail efforts to move towards elections and plunge Sudan into widespread conflict.
In conclusion, Sudan is experiencing a dangerous moment in its modern history. Political unrest and violence mar its transition to democracy as clashes persist between its military and paramilitary wing, RSF. The country’s stability is at stake as international powers urge an immediate ceasefire to avoid escalation or civil war.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
