Abdul Rahim Dagalo, the former Deputy Chairman of Sudan’s Sovereignty Council, has confirmed that the purpose of the political charter and the formation of the National Response Government is to “fulfill the will of the Sudanese people, who have suffered greatly from war.” He stated that the forces supporting the charter aim to end the crisis through a new government that alleviates people’s suffering, emphasizing that this government is “not affiliated with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).”
His statements come as Sudan undergoes rapid transformations, with political and civilian forces seeking a new vision for managing the transitional period and ending the ongoing war between the army and the RSF. One striking development is the continued absence of Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, from the political scene since the war began—raising many questions about his status and whereabouts.
Dagalo also claimed that the war waged by Islamists—according to his words—is “not political but rather a battle of weapons and media disinformation.” He called for unity to build a new Sudan based on justice and free from polarization. He described the political charter as the first step toward ending suffering and stressed that those responsible for human rights violations would be held accountable.
He further stated that history “will not record that we divided Sudan” and pointed to the appointment of Abdulaziz al-Hilu, leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), as the head of the parallel Sovereignty Council affiliated with the RSF. This move signifies a major shift in Sudan’s crisis, especially after al-Hilu joined the Tasis alliance, which seeks to establish a national unity government in Sudan.
Shockwaves in the Government and Rising Political Tensions
The government led by Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan in Port Sudan was reportedly taken aback by al-Hilu’s alignment with the new alliance. His inclusion is seen as a significant move, sending strong signals of emerging political realignments.
The new alliance consists of political parties, armed movements, and tribal administrations, structured into three levels: a Sovereignty Council, a Council of Ministers, and a Parliament. Observers believe that al-Hilu’s participation is a breakthrough in long-stalled negotiations with the SPLM-N, potentially paving the way for a comprehensive and just peace in Sudan.
Historically, the SPLM was a key player in Sudan’s civil war, which led to South Sudan’s independence in 2011. Following the secession, al-Hilu led a faction of the movement in Kauda, establishing an autonomous civilian administration.
Sudan’s Diplomatic Dispute with Kenya
Amid these developments, the Sudanese government recalled its ambassador from Kenya in protest against Nairobi hosting preparatory meetings for the RSF and its allies, which aimed to declare a parallel government.
Sudan’s state news agency reported that the Foreign Ministry summoned the ambassador for “consultation and to object to Kenya’s hosting of RSF meetings.” The government described Kenya’s actions as “hostile towards Sudan,” accusing Nairobi of encouraging the division of African states and violating Sudan’s sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s Supreme Court is currently reviewing a highly complex legal and political case that seeks to prevent the RSF from signing any political agreements with Sudanese political or armed factions within Kenya. The case is delicate, especially given international reports documenting widespread human rights violations by the RSF during the Sudanese conflict.
This raises pressing questions: If the RSF succeeds in signing a political agreement, will it be legally recognized? The court’s decision will likely rely on evidence from international and regional organizations documenting the RSF’s actions in conflict zones. If the agreement is deemed to legitimize a militia accused of serious crimes, the court may take this into account.
Despite its legal independence, the court cannot ignore the political and diplomatic implications, particularly given Kenya’s influential regional role. The decision may ultimately balance legal obligations with the broader political consequences.
Secret Signing of the Parallel Government Agreement
Sudanese media have reported that the RSF-backed parallel government agreement was signed in a secret ceremony at an undisclosed location, with strict security measures preventing the use of mobile phones to avoid leaks. While sources confirm the signing took place, the details remain highly classified, adding further mystery to the situation.
At the same time, tensions between the RSF and the SPLM-N have escalated, particularly over leadership disputes within the Sovereignty Council during meetings of political forces supporting the parallel government. This growing power struggle between the two factions is complicating Sudan’s already turbulent political landscape.
The Battle for Khartoum and Military Advances
On the ground, fierce battles continue between the Sudanese army and the RSF across multiple frontlines in the capital, Khartoum. On Saturday morning, residents reported sporadic explosions in the city center as the Sudanese army intensified its offensive to reclaim the Republican Palace and key government ministries.
In East Nile, the army is advancing east of Soba Bridge to apply further pressure on RSF positions. Meanwhile, Sudanese warplanes have conducted airstrikes targeting RSF movements south and west of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur.
As the army pushes forward, Sudan’s conflict enters a critical phase. With Hemedti’s continued absence, the political uncertainty surrounding the RSF’s leadership, and growing tensions between armed factions, Sudan’s future remains as unpredictable as ever.
