Sudan has accused Kenya of hostility after allowing the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to hold a political gathering at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). The Sudanese government claims Kenya’s actions violate international law and principles of good neighborliness, escalating tensions between the two nations.
On Tuesday, RSF leaders convened at KICC to strategize on launching a parallel administration, which they have termed the “Government of Peace and Unity.” The event, initially scheduled for Monday, was postponed and is expected to continue through Wednesday, culminating in the signing of the Charter for the Government of Peace and Unity. The meeting, attended by a broad spectrum of participants, including diplomats and international observers, is seen as a significant step in RSF’s efforts to establish legitimacy amid the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
The Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned Kenya’s decision to host RSF leaders, calling it an endorsement of what they described as a terrorist militia. The ministry accused Nairobi of contravening commitments to refrain from supporting hostile actions against Sudan. In a statement, Sudan declared:
“Hosting leaders of the terrorist RSF militia and allowing them to conduct political and propaganda activities constitutes an endorsement of and complicity in these heinous crimes.”
Khartoum further argued that Kenya’s actions disregard obligations under international law, the United Nations Charter, and the African Union’s Constitutive Act. Sudan also called on the international community to condemn what it perceives as Kenya’s hostile act.
Despite Sudan’s accusations, the Kenyan government has denied supporting RSF. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei refuted the claims, emphasizing Kenya’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Sudanese crisis.
“Quite to the contrary, Kenya is a supporter of a negotiated settlement to the dispute and has said as much time without number,” Sing’oei stated.
He further clarified that allowing RSF to hold a political event does not equate to Kenya endorsing their agenda.
The RSF, a key faction in Sudan’s prolonged conflict, has been accused of war crimes, including genocide. The fighting between RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces has led to the deaths of tens of thousands of people and displaced millions. The Sudanese government, backed by its military and allied forces, remains resolute in its mission to reclaim territory lost to RSF.
As tensions escalate, Kenya’s role in mediating Sudan’s crisis faces renewed scrutiny, raising concerns about its diplomatic stance in a conflict that continues to destabilize the region.
