The African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) has strongly rejected the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) declaration of a parallel government in Sudan, warning that such an action undermines the country’s unity and sovereignty. The council, in a statement following its meeting in Addis Ababa on March 11, called on African Union member states and the international community not to recognize or support the RSF-led government, which has drawn international scrutiny.
This development comes after the RSF, in collaboration with 18 allied movements, announced the formation of a “peace and unity” government in Nairobi. The move has drawn considerable attention, particularly from Kenya, which initially defended its role in the process. However, Kenya later softened its stance following growing concern over the legality and legitimacy of the RSF’s actions.
The African Union emphasized its continued commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty, reiterating its position that only peaceful negotiations can bring an end to the devastating conflict that has been ravaging the country since April 2023. The AU also expressed concern over the humanitarian toll of the ongoing violence, which has led to thousands of deaths and widespread displacement.
Sudan’s deadly conflict erupted in mid-April 2023, when tensions between the Sudanese military and the RSF, a powerful paramilitary group, came to a head. The fighting began in the capital, Khartoum, and has since spread to other regions of the country. As of now, more than 24,000 people have been killed, and over 14 million people—approximately 30% of the population—have been forced to flee their homes, according to United Nations estimates.
An estimated 3.2 million Sudanese have sought refuge in neighboring countries, exacerbating the regional refugee crisis. Despite international calls for an immediate ceasefire and peace negotiations, the conflict persists, leaving Sudan in a state of prolonged instability and suffering.
The African Union has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the international community to support Sudan’s efforts to resolve the crisis and ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
