Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces and allies signed a transitional constitution, aiming to create a parallel government amidst ongoing conflict. This move follows years of upheaval since the 2019 uprising that ousted Omar al-Bashir. The constitution proposes a federal, secular state and outlines provisions for regional autonomy, a unified national army, and potential elections, although details remain unclear.
In a significant development, Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied factions signed a transitional constitution, marking a crucial step toward establishing a parallel government amid the ongoing conflict with the army. This war, lasting nearly two years, poses a threat of disintegration for the nation, with dire consequences including mass displacements and rampant violence.
The RSF has faced previous setbacks in this conflict, which has led to extreme hunger and ethnic violence. Recently, they escalated their military actions by launching a long-range drone attack targeting the Merowe Dam, Sudan’s primary power generation facility, resulting in widespread power outages in northern regions, according to an army statement.
The RSF’s newly signed constitution aims to replace the previous framework adopted following the ousting of former autocrat Omar al-Bashir during the 2019 uprising. A coup in 2021 prevented a transition to civilian governance, and warfare erupted in April 2023 amid renewed efforts for constitutional reforms.
Earlier this year, the RSF and its allies expressed their intent to create a government for a purported “New Sudan,” seeking to gain legitimacy over the existing military-led government while facilitating advanced arms imports. The constitution delineates a vision for a federal, secular state divided into eight regions.
It includes provisions for basic rights, emphasizing regional self-determination contingent upon the separation of religion from government. Furthermore, it advocates for a unified national army and mentions elections as a potential outcome of the transitional phase, though without a specific timeline. Notably, signatories include influential groups such as the SPLM-N, which holds considerable territory in South Kordofan.
While the RSF and its allies assert that the government will be formed imminently, uncertainties remain regarding its leadership and operational base. This declaration of intent underscores the ongoing complexities within Sudan’s political landscape, as the country grapples with instability and humanitarian crises.
The RSF and allied factions have taken a defining step toward establishing a parallel government in Sudan as they signed a transitional constitution. Despite the uncertainty surrounding leadership and governance amidst ongoing conflict, this move could reshape the country’s political landscape significantly. The implications of this constitution highlight regional aspirations for self-determination and underscore the challenges that remain in achieving stability and civilian rule in Sudan.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
