RSF threatens to form government if Sudan’s army refuses talks

August 24, 2024 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) threatened on Saturday to declare a government in the capital Khartoum if the army continues to refuse negotiations to end their 16-month conflict.

The RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, said such a move would aim to protect civilians and delegitimize army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who they claim controls only 20% of Sudan.

“The army’s refusal to negotiate could lead to the declaration of a government in Khartoum,” said Elbasha Mohmed Tbaeq, an advisor to Daglo, in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

He accused the army and its allies of ignoring the humanitarian crisis and prioritizing a return to power, even at the cost of the Sudanese people and the potential fragmentation of the country.

Al-Bashir said a potential RSF-led government would establish diplomatic relations, create a banking system, and open markets for exports in areas under its control.

“All options are open in the coming weeks,” he warned.

The threat comes as Burhan, in a separate press conference, indicated a willingness to form a transitional technocratic government.

The conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, has killed thousands and displaced millions, causing a major humanitarian crisis. International efforts to mediate a ceasefire have so far failed.