Sudan’s Agar foresees military solution to RSF standoff
March 24, 2024 (KOSTI, White Nile State) – Malik Agar, Deputy Chairman of Sudan’s Sovereign Council and leader of the SPLM-Revolutionary Front, downplayed the possibility of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Agar embarked on a tour of the Blue Nile, Sennar, and White Nile regions, assessing security and humanitarian conditions while inspecting the army’s readiness for a possible military operation against the RSF in Al-Jazeera state, which they have controlled since December 2023.
Addressing soldiers and officers of the 18th Infantry Division in Kosti, Agar declared, “We have full faith in the armed forces’ ability to resolve the conflict with the RSF swiftly. However, the path towards a peaceful resolution appears increasingly unlikely.”
He urged the army and other regular forces to advance on all fronts and contain the “rebel militia,” stating, “We are facing an adversary that threatens the very existence and unity of the Sudanese state. Only by dismantling this armed force can we secure Sudan’s future.”
The deputy-chairman emphasized the armed forces’ strength and resilience, citing his own 40 years of military experience. He advocated for a military solution followed by post-conflict reconstruction led by legitimate political representatives, not “inexperienced politicians and activists flitting around international capitals.”
Agar dismissed the RSF’s claims of fighting for a return to the 1956 Sudanese state and democratic transformation as mere “propaganda and a ploy to garner support.” He emphasized that the future lies in building a modern Sudan, fostering positive change among its citizens, and creating a space for peaceful coexistence.
He concluded by urging the 18th Infantry Division leadership to secure the border and open the El Obeid road, allowing the armed forces to “clean up” Darfur and restore peace to the region.
(ST)