RSF leaders call for ceasefire, democracy in Sudan
RSF leaders
Brigadier General Omar Hamdan head of the delegation at the Republic of the Sudan RSF Press Conference, at the Sarova Panafric Hotel Nairobi, Monday, November 18, 2024/DANIEL KIBIWOTT
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leadership on Monday called for a ceasefire, peace and restoration of democracy in Sudan saying they are ready to engage in talks that will pacify the country.
The team led by the head of the negotiating delegation Brigadier General Omar Hamdan, Counselor Muhammad Al-Mukhtar and Counselor Ezz El-Din El-Safi said RSF is committed to supporting Sudan’s shift towards democracy.
“We stand ready to engage in inclusive and comprehensive political talks to address Sudan’s root causes of conflict, end all wars, and build a peaceful, stable, and democratic nation,” Hamdan, who read the joint statement., said.
They reaffirmed the RSF’s commitment to peace, democracy, and humanitarian support even as they highlighted the nation’s challenges and their vision for Sudan’s future.
“The RSF leaders called for a nationwide ceasefire and comprehensive political discussions to address Sudan’s deep-seated challenges,” the group added.
“The RSF unequivocally welcomes all regional and international initiatives aimed at achieving comprehensive peace and restoring Sudan’s democratic transition.”
Despite controlling significant parts of Sudan, including Darfur, Al-Jazira, Kordofan, 4 and a section of Khartoum, RSF said they remain fully committed to an immediate nationwide ceasefire and ensuring the passage of humanitarian aid, and creating safe corridors for civilians and aid workers.
The RSF further endorsed the Juba Peace Agreement and pushed for an inclusive political structure that aims to reflect Sudan’s diversity, including marginalized groups such as women and youth.
“The RSF recognizes that ending this war requires a nationwide ceasefire and a comprehensive political process to address Sudan’s deep-rooted issues,” they said
“For this reason, the RSF has engaged seriously in all peace initiatives as the RSF leadership has consistently prioritized peace.”
RSF was established in 2013 with two foundational principles to defend Sudan’s sovereignty, safeguard its borders and to also protect the people of Sudan.
With a mission to protect Sudan’s sovereignty and its people, the RSF quickly took on significant challenges, including defeating armed groups, curbing illegal arms, combating human trafficking, and helping those caught in dangerous migration routes.
By 2018, as the Sudanese people took to the streets against Omar al-Bashir’s regime, the RSF aligned with the public in demanding change.
Recognizing the regime’s threat to Sudan’s future, the RSF played a crucial role in ending one of Africa’s bloodiest dictatorships.
