Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its allies have signed a charter establishing a rival government, a move that risks further fragmenting the war-torn nation. The signing took place behind closed doors in Nairobi, Kenya, after multiple delays, despite warnings from regional and international bodies.
The agreement, seen as a political maneuver against Sudan’s regular army, was signed by key RSF figures and allied factions, including a group from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu. Abdel Rahim Daglo, the brother and deputy of RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, also signed the document, though the commander himself was notably absent.
The charter outlines plans for a “secular, democratic, decentralized state” and proposes the formation of a unified national army. It also emphasizes freedom, equality, and justice, rejecting biases based on ethnicity, religion, or regional identity. Proponents argue that the initiative aims to end the war, facilitate humanitarian aid, and integrate armed groups into a single military structure.
The timing of the announcement adds another layer to Sudan’s escalating crisis, nearly two years into a brutal war that has displaced over 12 million people and triggered a severe humanitarian disaster. The United Nations has called the situation the worst hunger and displacement crisis in the world.
The signing of the charter comes amid a growing rift within Sudan’s largest civilian coalition, Taqadum, which has now split into two factions. One, the Sudan Founding Alliance (TASIS), aligns with the RSF and is leading efforts to establish the new government. The other, the Civilian Democratic Alliance for Revolution Powers (Sumud), is headed by former Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok and remains opposed to the RSF’s moves.
Tensions have also risen over economic and administrative control. Sudan’s army, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, introduced new banknotes in December in an effort to economically weaken the RSF. The RSF-aligned leadership argues that citizens in their territories lack access to essential services, including banking and documentation processing.
The signing has sparked backlash from Sudan’s army-aligned government, which swiftly recalled its ambassador from Nairobi in protest. Kenya’s involvement has drawn criticism, particularly from the Arab League, which condemned any action that threatens Sudan’s unity. The United Nations has also warned that the move could worsen the crisis, further dividing the country and making a resolution even more difficult.
With Sudan’s army now considering the formation of a “war cabinet”, the coming weeks could see heightened military confrontations. The rival government is expected to be formed within a month, potentially reshaping Sudan’s already volatile conflict.
