Sudan’s paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has announced the establishment of a new government, challenging the authority of the country’s military leadership two years into a devastating civil war.
RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, widely known as “Hemedti,” described the move as a step toward building a viable and unified future for Sudan.
Speaking via Telegram, Hemedti emphasized that the RSF was committed to creating a lawful and inclusive state, rejecting domination by any single group.
This declaration coincided with an international conference in London marking the second anniversary of the conflict.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy called for renewed peace efforts, decrying the ongoing atrocities and humanitarian disaster.
Meanwhile, heavy clashes persist in North Darfur. The army claimed it targeted RSF bases near el-Fasher, causing a mass displacement from the Zamzam refugee camp.
According to MSF, thousands have fled on foot to Tawila, enduring extreme dehydration, with reports of child deaths due to lack of water.
The United Nations has reported over 400 deaths in recent RSF assaults, with both sides accused of committing war crimes, including ethnic cleansing and sexual violence.
Since April 2023, the conflict has claimed more than 150,000 lives and forced over 12 million people from their homes.
With over 700,000 people facing famine-like conditions in and around el-Fasher, aid groups struggle to deliver supplies due to insecurity and blocked routes. In response, the UK pledged an additional £120 million in humanitarian aid during the summit.
“We cannot turn our backs on Sudan,” Lammy said, condemning the violence and urging the global community to push for a ceasefire.
The African Union reaffirmed its stance against any division of Sudan along military lines.