Widespread international condemnation of the announcement of a parallel government in Sudan
The United Nations expressed deep concern on Wednesday about the risk of Sudan’s “disintegration” after the commander of the Rapid Support Forces announced the formation of a rival government in the near future.
In a written statement on Tuesday, Rapid Support Forces Commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo “Hemedti” announced his intention to form a rival government on the second anniversary of the outbreak of the war.
“We are deeply concerned about any further escalation of the conflict in Sudan, including actions that would further fragment the country and entrench the crisis,” Stéphane Dujarric, spokesman for the UN Secretary-General, told reporters.
Dujarric emphasized that “preserving Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity is a fundamental principle for moving toward a lasting solution to the crisis and ensuring long-term stability for the country and the region.”
He added, “As the international community, we must find ways to help the Sudanese people end this horrific catastrophe and establish acceptable transition arrangements.”
In the same context, the British government condemned the Rapid Support Forces’ announcement of the formation of a rival government in Sudan, considering it “not the solution” to the war that has been tearing the country apart for two years.
A British Foreign Office spokesperson said in a statement that “unilateral announcements aimed at forming a parallel government are not the solution. On the contrary, it is essential to preserve Sudan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.”
He added that “a comprehensive, civilian-led peace agreement is essential to preserve Sudan’s unity.”
Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Walid al-Khuraiji said during the London International Conference on Sudan that “any steps or measures taken outside the framework of the official institutions of the Sudanese state constitute an infringement on the country’s unity, a breach of legitimacy, and an infringement of the will of the people.”
Al-Khuraiji warned against calls to form a parallel government or any alternative entity, describing them as “illegitimate attempts that threaten the political process, deepen divisions, and hinder efforts to reach a comprehensive national solution.”
The G7 countries called for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” and urged “all external actors to cease any support that would further fuel the conflict.”