Kenyan President William Ruto is facing a wave of criticism following his administration’s decision to host Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi. The RSF, led by Abdul Rahim Dagalo, arrived in the capital on Sunday to launch what they are calling a “peace and unity” government. However, analysts argue that the move could have serious diplomatic consequences for Kenya.
Diplomatic affairs analyst Ahmed Hashi has openly criticized the decision, warning that Kenya is taking a dangerous path by engaging with individuals linked to war crimes. Speaking on Citizen TV, Hashi noted that Ruto’s association with RSF leaders who have been accused of serious human rights violations could significantly damage Kenya’s global reputation.
“He (Ruto) is creating a firestorm. He is dilly dallying with people who are being taken to the ICC, with a person who has been roundly criticized for massive human rights abuse in Sudan,” Hashi stated.
The RSF has been a major player in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, which erupted in April 2023 over disagreements regarding the integration of the paramilitary group with the regular army. The war has since spiraled into one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, with over 12 million people displaced and half the population facing hunger.
Critics argue that allowing RSF to operate from Nairobi could expose Kenya to international scrutiny and potential backlash from allies. The Sudanese army, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has been pushing back against RSF advances, recently regaining strategic ground in Khartoum and other areas.
The move comes at a sensitive time, as the Sudanese military has hinted at forming a new government once it fully regains control of Khartoum. The RSF, on the other hand, has expressed support for forming a rival civilian administration. Meanwhile, fighting continues in the western Darfur region, where RSF is attempting to consolidate its control.
As global powers watch the developments in Sudan, Kenya’s decision to host RSF could have far-reaching consequences. While Ruto has positioned himself as a mediator in regional conflicts, his engagement with RSF could jeopardize Kenya’s standing in international diplomacy. With ongoing tensions and fears of worsening humanitarian conditions, the decision to welcome RSF leaders to Nairobi could prove to be a costly gamble for the Ruto administration.
