Retired military mobilized to support Sudan’s army in conflict against RSF

May 26, 2023 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s Defence Minister, Yassin Ibrahim Yassin, called on Friday to mobilise retired officers and soldiers to support the army in its ongoing conflict against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which started 41 days ago.

The statement emphasised that the call was prompted by the targeting of civilians, property looting, home occupation, attacks on public services, and bank looting, among other acts.

“To support the significant military efforts made by the armed forces in restoring security and stability, a decision has been made to enlist the participation of all retired officers and soldiers of the armed forces,” stated the announcement.

Initially, the army’s statement included “all those who can carry arms.” Still, it was quickly retracted and replaced with a revised statement specifying that it was limited to retired army officers and soldiers under 65.

While the Sudanese army and the RSF agreed to a seven-day ceasefire, the humanitarian truce has been frequently violated.

In a statement regarding the situation on the ground on May 25, the American and Saudi mediators, also members of the ceasefire monitoring mechanism, noted a relative improvement compared to the previous day, May 24.

However, they urged “the parties to adhere to their obligations under the ceasefire agreement and take necessary steps to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance and restoration of essential services.”

RSF reaction

(ST)