RSF leader reiterates commitment to peace, condemns obstructionists

January 16, 2024  (KHARTOUM) – In a strongly worded statement, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the Commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has condemned those who hinder Sudan’s peace process, labelling them as traitors to the nation.

Dagalo’s remarks came in response to the Sudanese government’s decision to suspend cooperation with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), citing IGAD’s unilateral decision to include Sudan’s situation on the agenda of its upcoming extraordinary summit and to invite Dagalo to participate without prior consultation with Sudan.

In his statement, the RSF leader reaffirmed his commitment to participating in the upcoming IGAD meeting, driven by his unwavering desire to resolve Sudan’s ongoing conflict.

Dagalo outlined several key principles that should govern Sudan’s peace process. He stressed the importance of inclusive negotiations that represent the interests of all Sudanese stakeholders, including civil society groups, religious organizations, youth groups, professional associations, and the broader Sudanese citizenry. He also emphasized the need for a unified, professional military and a swift transition to a democratic government through free and fair elections.

He reiterated his unwavering commitment to establishing a stable, democratic, and peaceful Sudan. He declared his readiness to make any necessary sacrifices to achieve this goal.

The RSF leader strongly condemned those who seek to undermine the peace process, stating that “Anyone who obstructs negotiations, prevents meetings from taking place, or abandons the negotiating table without justifiable cause is betraying the Sudanese people.”

Dagalo called for the participation of national pro-democracy institutions in the peace talks, emphasizing the importance of inclusive representation.

 He expressed hope that his participation in the IGAD meeting and future negotiations would contribute to closing Sudan’s “painful chapter” and “dark era,” ending bloodshed, and alleviating suffering for the Sudanese people.

The IGAD summit in Kampala, scheduled for next Thursday, January 18, was originally convened at Somalia’s request to discuss an agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland regarding the exchange of a stake in Ethiopian Airlines for access to the Gulf of Aden.

However, IGAD decided to add Sudan to the agenda, apparently intending to hold a direct meeting between Dagalo and other stakeholders without coordinating with the military-led Sudanese government.

(ST)