African Union Condemns Sudan’s Parallel Government Move
African Union has strongly rejected the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) declaration of a parallel government in Sudan, warning that the move threatens the country’s unity and stability. The African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) met on March 11 in Addis Ababa and issued a statement urging AU member states and the international community not to recognize or support any such entity.
The African Union reaffirmed its commitment to Sudan’s territorial integrity, emphasizing that any attempt to create a breakaway administration could lead to the fragmentation of the war-ravaged country. The PSC stressed the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis, as Sudan has remained in violent conflict since April 2023.
The ongoing war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF has devastated Sudan, with thousands of civilians killed and millions displaced. The AU’s latest stance reflects growing regional and international concerns about Sudan’s worsening crisis and the potential long-term consequences of its fragmentation.
African Union Warns of Sudan’s Fragmentation and Deepening Conflict
The African Union’s rejection of the RSF-led administration highlights the increasing danger of Sudan’s division. The war has already split the country into different zones of control, with the military holding the north and east, while the RSF dominates western Darfur and large parts of the south. The emergence of a parallel government risks formalizing this division and pushing Sudan toward a prolonged and irreversible crisis.
In its statement, the African Union warned that the formation of a rival government could deepen the conflict and lead to a permanent partition of Sudan. It urged all stakeholders, including warring factions and political actors, to prioritize peaceful negotiations and avoid actions that could escalate tensions. The AU’s concerns were echoed by the United Nations Security Council, which also condemned the move, warning that Sudan’s disintegration could destabilize the entire region.
The declaration of a separate government by the RSF and its allies occurred in Nairobi, Kenya, attracting significant international scrutiny. Kenya initially defended its involvement but later softened its stance amid mounting regional and global pressure. The AU’s intervention aims to prevent further fragmentation and maintain Sudan’s territorial integrity.
African Union Calls for Dialogue Amid Humanitarian Catastrophe
Sudan’s war has plunged the country into one of the worst humanitarian crises in modern history. The conflict has killed more than 24,000 people and displaced over 14 million, with 3.2 million fleeing to neighboring countries. According to the United Nations, nearly 25 million people are experiencing severe food insecurity, with 600,000 on the brink of starvation.
The UN has described the situation as the world’s biggest displacement crisis, as millions of Sudanese have been forced to flee their homes due to the violence. Humanitarian organizations have struggled to provide aid, with access severely restricted by ongoing fighting. The AU has called for an urgent humanitarian ceasefire to allow aid to reach those in need.
International organizations, including the World Food Programme and the Red Cross, have warned that without immediate intervention, Sudan could face a famine. The war has disrupted food supply chains, devastated agriculture, and left millions of people without necessities. The AU has stressed that all parties must agree to a ceasefire to prevent further suffering.
International Response to Sudan’s Crisis
The European Union has joined the AU in condemning the formation of a parallel government, reaffirming its commitment to Sudan’s unity. The UN Security Council has also expressed grave concerns, warning that any attempt to divide Sudan would further destabilize an already dire situation.
AU officials have urged Sudanese leaders to engage in direct dialogue and avoid actions that could further escalate the crisis. The AU emphasized the need for an inclusive political process that respects Sudan’s sovereignty and allows all parties to contribute to lasting peace.
The crisis in Sudan has also drawn concern from neighboring African nations, who fear that continued instability could spill over into their borders. Countries such as Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia have already experienced an influx of Sudanese refugees, adding to their own economic and security challenges. The AU is working closely with these nations to ensure regional stability while pushing for a resolution to Sudan’s crisis.
AU’s Commitment to Sudan’s Stability
As Sudan’s war rages on, the AU continues to stress the importance of unity and diplomacy. The organization’s rejection of the RSF-led parallel government is a clear message that any attempt to divide Sudan will not be tolerated. The AU has reiterated that Sudan’s future must be determined through peaceful negotiations rather than military action.
With millions of lives at stake, the AU has urged all parties to prioritize the well-being of Sudanese civilians. The ongoing conflict has already pushed the country to the brink of collapse, and without immediate intervention, the situation could worsen. The AU remains committed to supporting Sudan through diplomatic efforts, urging warring factions to agree to peace talks and end hostilities.
The rejection of the parallel government is part of the AU’s broader strategy to prevent the country’s disintegration and ensure long-term stability. As the conflict continues, the AU will play a crucial role in mediating negotiations and working toward a lasting resolution.
The AU’s firm stance against the RSF’s parallel government reflects its commitment to Sudan’s unity. The ongoing war has already devastated the nation, and any move toward partition would only deepen the crisis. The AU, alongside international organizations, continues to push for diplomatic solutions to end the suffering and restore stability.
The future of Sudan remains uncertain, but the AU’s rejection of the RSF-led administration is a critical step toward preventing further division. With millions displaced and food insecurity at crisis levels, the international community must act swiftly to support peace efforts and prevent the country from collapsing further. The AU’s call for dialogue remains the best hope for resolving Sudan’s crisis and securing a stable future.
