How RSF Plans to Capture Power After Creating Party in Nairobi
Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has formed a separate government in Nairobi and is now working to strengthen its hold on power. Many believe this move is part of RSF’s plan to gain legitimacy as Sudan’s rightful rulers.
The paramilitary group is engaged in a violent conflict with the Sudanese army. However, instead of relying solely on military force, RSF is now using diplomatic efforts to establish itself as the dominant force in Sudan’s future, sources say.
According to officials who spoke to Reuters, RSF wants to replace Sudan’s army as the recognized government in international organizations like the United Nations. This would help it gain acceptance on the global stage.
“If you bring security to your country and end the violence, displacement, and terrorism, then neighboring countries will recognize you,” said politician Ibrahim al-Mirghani, who supports the new government.
RSF is trying to present itself as the key player in Sudan’s civilian transition while also increasing its military power. By working with politicians in Taqaddum, RSF is attempting to shift its image from that of a militia to a legitimate ruling force.
“Governments, not militias, are given advanced weapons,” said al-Hadi Idris, leader of an armed group backing the RSF’s government plan. “Our main goal is peace, but a government must protect its people. We have the right to acquire aircraft and defense systems.”
The RSF denies forming a government to buy weapons but insists it has the right to do so for self-defense.
Last month, RSF signed an agreement with political and armed groups in Nairobi, laying the groundwork for a new government. The parties involved said a ‘Government of Peace and Unity’ would be established inside Sudan in the coming weeks.
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Now, RSF claims it is the legitimate government, not a parallel authority or one in exile. The group is using diplomatic means to weaken the Sudanese army. “We are not an alternative government; we are the real government,” Idris stated.
During the Nairobi meeting, RSF and its allies in the Sudanese Coordination of Civil Democratic Forces (Taqaddum) launched a political charter. Former Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, who leads Taqaddum, called it the first step towards a democratic Sudan.
Critics, however, see this as a strategic move by RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, to gain international legitimacy. Sudan’s military leaders strongly opposed the Nairobi agreement, accusing Kenya of siding with RSF in the conflict. The Sudanese government, controlled by the army, has repeatedly warned Kenya against meddling in its affairs.
A Sudanese government official told Reuters, “Kenya has clearly taken RSF’s side in this war.” This situation has put Kenya in a difficult position, as it faces accusations of bias while also trying to act as a regional peace mediator.
Despite RSF’s claims of supporting democracy, its violent past raises concerns. The group has been accused of serious crimes, including mass killings and ethnic violence in Darfur. A U.N. report described these acts as “horrific,” leading many to believe RSF’s diplomatic efforts are simply a cover for its authoritarian ambitions.
Kenya’s involvement in RSF’s plans has not gone unnoticed. Hosting the Nairobi meeting angered Sudan’s army, which sees it as interference. In response, Sudan expelled Kenya’s ambassador, worsening diplomatic tensions. However, Kenya maintains that its role is purely diplomatic, with President William Ruto emphasizing the need for regional peace and stability.
How RSF Plans to Capture Power After Creating Party in Nairobi
