Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the leader of Sudan’s RSF, claimed that the war against the army is not over and vowed to return to Khartoum despite recent military setbacks. His comments followed significant army advancements in the region. The ongoing conflict, driven by a struggle for power, has caused substantial humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and widespread hunger afflicting the populace.
On Sunday, the chief of Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, stated that the conflict with the army remains unresolved. Despite being largely expelled from Khartoum, he indicated an intention to return. This statement marks Dagalo’s initial commentary following a significant military push by the army that saw RSF forces retreat last week.
In an audio message via Telegram, Dagalo acknowledged that his troops had repositioned from Khartoum to Omdurman as part of a tactical decision made by leadership. He expressed a determination to reclaim the capital, stating, “We will return stronger, more powerful and victorious.”
The Sudanese army has been steadily consolidating its control, recently capturing a key market in Omdurman that the RSF had previously utilized for operations. The army currently controls significant portions of Omdurman, which houses vital military bases, and it aims to secure the entirety of the capital area encompassing Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri.
Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan stated there would be no reconciliation with the RSF, insisting that it must be fully defeated. The ongoing war is rooted in a power struggle between the army and the RSF, coinciding with a delayed transition to civilian governance.
The conflict has inflicted severe damage on Khartoum, displacing over 12 million individuals due to the fighting and resulting in widespread hunger affecting about half of Sudan’s 50 million populace. Estimates suggest casualties could total around 61,000 in Khartoum state during the first 14 months of conflict, highlighting the grim toll of this ongoing war.
In conclusion, Sudan’s ongoing conflict stems from a power struggle between the army and the RSF, with both sides steadfast in their positions. Dagalo’s declaration of intent to return to Khartoum underlines the protracted nature of this conflict, amidst severe humanitarian consequences. The army’s consolidation of power indicates a shift in dynamics, yet the situation remains volatile and unresolved. It is imperative to monitor developments as the region faces critical humanitarian challenges and political instability.
Original Source: www.usnews.com