In a significant development amidst the ongoing conflict in Sudan, officials from the country’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have officially signed a charter in Nairobi, setting the stage for the formation of a parallel government in rebel-held areas.
The charter, signed on February 23, envisions a secular, democratic Sudan with a unified national army, while also acknowledging the right of armed groups to exist and continue their operations.
The signing ceremony was attended by key figures, including Abdelaziz al-Hilu, a powerful rebel leader controlling vast regions of South Kordofan state. Al-Hilu has long advocated for Sudan to adopt secularism.
This agreement underscores the RSF’s call for a decentralised state and a reform of Sudan’s governance, stating that the current government based in Port Sudan has failed to bring an end to the war or unify the country.
However, the event has sparked controversy and diplomatic tensions. Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs sharply criticized Kenya for hosting the RSF, an armed group engaged in an ongoing battle with Sudan’s army.
The Sudanese government condemned the Kenyan administration for allowing the RSF to hold a major event in Nairobi, where they sought alliances with other political and armed groups to strengthen their position in Sudan.
Kenya's decision to host the RSF has also drawn international attention, with many questioning the diplomatic implications.
The United States has imposed sanctions on RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, who has been accused of widespread human rights violations, including genocide. Despite the controversy, Kenya has maintained that its role is purely diplomatic, focused on addressing the humanitarian crisis in Sudan and facilitating peace efforts.
In response to the backlash, Kenya’s government issued a statement through the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary, insisting that it has not taken sides in the Sudanese conflict.
The statement emphasized Kenya’s commitment to seeking solutions to the crisis, noting that the nation remains dedicated to its role as a peace enabler in the region and the world.