U.S. warns against parallel government in Sudan, citing instability risk

March 5, 2025 (WASHINGTON) – The United States expressed deep concern on Wednesday about reports that Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied groups are moving to establish a parallel government, warning the move could worsen instability and lead to the country’s de facto partition.

The U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs said in a statement that attempts to establish a parallel administration were “unhelpful for peace and security” in Sudan.

The statement referred to reports that the RSF and aligned actors had signed a “transitional constitution” for Sudan. Sudanese political groups and armed movements aligned with the RSF endorsed a transitional charter in Nairobi on March 4, which, among other provisions, calls for a secular state.

The groups involved include the RSF, factions of the Sudan Revolutionary Front, the SPLM-N rebel group led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, the National Umma Party, and various civil society organizations.. These entities signed a founding pact on February 23, a step towards forming a parallel government in areas controlled by the RSF, expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

The Sudanese government has condemned the move, saying it fosters division within African countries and infringes on their sovereignty.

The U.S. statement did not specify the potential consequences of proceeding with the parallel government, but the strong wording underscores Washington’s concern about the escalating conflict in Sudan.