UN Security Council rejects RSF’s ‘parallel government’ in Sudan, warns of fragmentation

August 13, 2025 (UNITED NATIONS) – The United Nations Security Council on Wednesday rejected an announcement by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of a parallel governing authority, warning that the move was a “direct threat” to the country’s unity and could fragment the nation, worsening its devastating conflict.

In a press statement issued by Council President Eloy Alfaro de Alba of Panama, the 15-member body reaffirmed its “unwavering commitment” to Sudan’s sovereignty and stressed that a return to negotiations for a lasting ceasefire was the top priority.

The council stated that any unilateral steps would not only threaten Sudan’s future but also compromise the stability of the broader region.

The statement expressed “grave concern” over reports of a renewed RSF offensive in El Fasher, North Darfur, and reiterated its demand from a June resolution that the paramilitary group lift its siege of the city, where famine conditions loom. The council also condemned recent deadly attacks on civilians in Sudan’s Kordofan region.

“The members of the Security Council urged the RSF to allow unhindered humanitarian access to El Fasher,” the statement read, calling on all parties to protect civilians and uphold their commitments under international law.

The Security Council also called on all U.N. member states to “refrain from external interference which seeks to foment conflict and instability” in Sudan and to implement existing resolutions.

The council reiterated its full support for the U.N. Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Ramtane Lamamra, in his efforts to broker a sustainable solution to the conflict through dialogue.