Sudan’s Chief Prosecutor accuses RSF of genocide and war crimes
June 19, 2024 (GENEVA) – Yasir Bashir Elbukhari Suliman, Sudan’s Chief Prosecutor, delivered a scathing indictment of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) at the United Nations Human Rights Council, accusing them of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.
Suliman detailed a series of horrific atrocities allegedly committed by the RSF since their rebellion in April 2023. These include the massacre of the Masalit tribe in West Darfur, resulting in 5,000 deaths and 8,000 wounded, as well as the recent massacre in Al Jazirah province, which left 227 dead and over 150 injured.
The Chief Prosecutor further accused the RSF of widespread sexual violence, with 216 women reportedly subjected to rape and the forced recruitment of 6,000 children, with 4,850 children killed in military operations. The RSF’s actions have also led to the displacement of over 15 million citizens, both within Sudan and abroad.
In addition to these crimes, Suliman accused the RSF of attacking and occupying civilian buildings, places of worship, and law enforcement agencies. They are also accused of releasing 19,000 inmates from prisons and committing these atrocities with the help of foreign mercenaries.
Suliman asserted that Sudan’s National Committee had conducted investigations while upholding the right to a fair trial. The RSF has been classified as a terrorist group, and 65 criminal cases have been completed, leading to convictions and acquittals.
The Chief Prosecutor called on the international community to provide technical assistance and urged neighbouring countries to facilitate access to victims and witnesses. He also requested support for establishing an international fund for reparations and compensation for the victims of the RSF’s alleged crimes.
During the discussions on the situation in Sudan, the participants expressed deep concern over the deteriorating human rights situation and the catastrophic humanitarian crisis.
Speakers at the meeting highlighted the devastating impact of the conflict, with millions on the brink of famine and an unprecedented displacement crisis. The recent escalation of violence between the warring parties has further exacerbated the situation, leading to widespread disregard for international human rights law and international humanitarian law.
The Council members condemned the perpetration of sexual and gender-based violence, attacks on health and humanitarian workers, and the targeting of civilians based on ethnicity. Concerns were also raised about child recruitment, crackdowns on freedom of speech, enforced disappearances, and the escalation of hate speech.
Many speakers appealed for an immediate and durable ceasefire and expressed support for regional and international mediation efforts. The International Criminal Court’s call for evidence was welcomed, and there was strong support for the Fact-Finding Mission’s mandate to investigate human rights violations.
The Council called on all Sudanese parties to stop looting and obstructions to aid delivery, ensure the protection of civilians, and continue dialogue towards a peaceful and just transition. The implementation of the Jeddah Declaration to protect civilians was also emphasized.
Some speakers highlighted the need for the political process to be owned by the Sudanese and rejected any foreign intervention in Sudanese affairs. They also stressed the importance of holding those who committed atrocities accountable for their actions.
The discussion concluded with questions about how the international community could support accountability efforts, aid the work of the Fact-Finding Mission, and ensure that perpetrators are held responsible for their crimes.