Al-Burhan welcomes Darfur groups in “Battle of Dignity,” calls for future integration

February 21, 2024 (KASSALA) – General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, head of Sudan’s military and Sovereignty Council, praised the participation of Darfur armed movements in the recent conflict against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), calling for their integration into the national army once the fighting ends.

On Wednesday, Al-Burhan visited the training camp of the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) led by Jibril Ibrahim in Kassala, following a similar visit to the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) forces led by Mustafa Tambour in Gedaref on Tuesday.

Addressing JEM forces, al-Burhan emphasized the military’s role in defending the nation and its citizens. He portrayed the conflict as an effort to liberate civilians from RSF control and brutality.

Al-Burhan denied initiating attacks on civilians or specific areas, praising the Darfuri movements for joining the army and adopting its uniform.

Renewing his determination to defeat the RSF, he stated, “This unity must be used to cleanse Sudan of any traitor and agent… This battle will not cease until this rebellion and mercenaries are eliminated.”

While reiterating his commitment to peace, al-Burhan outlined his goals: addressing civilian harm, restoring full rights, and holding perpetrators accountable.

Concluding his address, al-Burhan saluted his deputy, Malik Agar, for integrating his forces into the army, expressing hope that all signatories to the peace agreement would follow suit upon the conflict’s resolution.