SLM-Minawi deploys additional 1,500-strong force to fight RSF

March 28, 2024 (GEDERAF) – Sudan Liberation Movement Minni Minawi (SLM-MM) announced on Thursday the deployment of a new 1,500-strong force to combat the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in various Sudanese regions.

In November 2023, the SLM-MM and the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) declared an end to their neutrality in the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary RSF. However, their active military participation has been limited since then.

This graduation ceremony in Gedaref, eastern Sudan, marked the completion of training for the SLM’s “Tiger 1” group, Batch 37. The event follows SLM leader Minawi’s recent statement expressing his forces’ readiness to confront the RSF to defend civilians and Sudan’s sovereignty.

Minawi addressed the graduates, explaining his decision to actively engage in the fight after ten months on the sidelines. He described the current conflict as a “predatory campaign” and a potential “disintegration” of Sudan.

He emphasized his group’s commitment to ethical conduct throughout their 24-year struggle, denying any civilian casualties or rights violations attributable to his forces. Minawi further drew a stark contrast with the RSF’s alleged actions, accusing them of sexual violence, civilian abuse, and seizing civilian institutions.

Minawi condemned the RSF’s takeover of El Geneina and other Darfur cities after the withdrawal of armed forces, as well as their reported human rights violations in Al-Jazirah state.

He referred to the RSF as a force motivated by “exploitation” and pursuing a “sham democracy,” implying they have abandoned any sense of moral responsibility.