Sudanese leader urges RSF to be labelled ‘terrorist’, seeks AU reinstatement

September 5, 2024 (BEIJING) – Sudanese army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan on Thursday called for the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to be designated a terrorist group and urged the African Union to reinstate Sudan’s membership.

Speaking at the China-Africa forum in Beijing, Burhan accused the RSF of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity, citing the violence in West Darfur’s capital, El Geneina, as an example.

The RSF and allied Arab militias are accused of ethnically targeted killings against the non-Arab Masalit people in Darfur, including the assassination of the state governor.

Burhan, who also heads Sudan’s ruling Sovereign Council, described the RSF’s actions since the conflict erupted in April as a “major conspiracy” aimed at seizing power and serving “immature regional powers.”

He stressed that the RSF’s rebellion has caused immense suffering for the Sudanese people and poses a threat to regional peace and security.

Burhan called on African nations to support Sudan in achieving peace and stability and to reconsider the decision to suspend Sudan’s AU membership following the 2021 military coup.

He emphasized Sudan’s importance for regional security and its need for reconstruction, expressing hope for China’s pivotal role in rebuilding efforts.

After the military takeover ousted a civilian-led transitional government, the AU suspended Sudan’s membership.

The conflict in Sudan has displaced millions and caused a severe humanitarian crisis.