Sudan blames RSF for death of tribal leader in Kordofan

October 25, 2025 (PORT SUDAN) – Sudan’s government on Saturday accused the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of causing the death of a prominent tribal leader by preventing him from receiving medical treatment in West Kordofan state.

Abdelqadir Monem Mansour, the paramount chief of the Dar Hamar tribes, died earlier today in an ill-equipped hospital in the city of al-Nuhud shortly after being admitted due to his deteriorating health.

The late chief was a prominent supporter of the Sudanese Armed Forces in its war against the RSF. He had remained in al-Nuhud despite the RSF’s capture of the city last May, a takeover followed by widespread violations against civilians that forced thousands to flee.

In a statement, the Sovereignty Council said the “terrorist Dagalo militia bears full responsibility for the death of Prince Abdelqadir Monem Mansour, after they imposed restrictions on him and prevented him from travelling abroad for treatment.”

The government body described the act as a clear violation of the right to life and health that could amount to a crime against humanity. The statement added that the targeting of native administration leaders in the Kordofan and Darfur regions constituted a “full-fledged war crime.”

On October 12, the chief’s residence was hit by a drone strike that killed one woman and injured others.

The statement condemned what it called “systematic crimes and grave violations” by the RSF, including the destruction of state institutions and the targeting of civilians and vital infrastructure.

Khartoum called on the international community and human rights organisations to condemn the acts and move urgently to “stop the militia’s crimes and hold those responsible accountable.”

The government also noted that in recent days, the RSF has escalated its targeting of civilian facilities, including Khartoum International Airport and power stations in Sennar, Blue Nile, and White Nile states.