In a shocking development amid Sudan's ongoing civil strife, the Rapid Support Forces (R.S.F.), a powerful paramilitary group, declared its establishment of a parallel government on Wednesday. This declaration comes as R.S.F. fighters intensify their offensive on the Zamzam camp in western Darfur, significantly impacting the already dire humanitarian situation. The camp, once home to approximately 500,000 people, is now mostly deserted after reports indicated that at least 300 individuals lost their lives in the assaults, prompting around 400,000 civilians to flee.
R.S.F. leader Gen. Mohamed Hamdan announced the self-proclaimed government, stating it aims for "peace and unity" while representing various ethnic groups to reflect Sudan’s true diversity. However, such proclamations contrast sharply with the violent reality faced by civilians, particularly in light of the recent military campaign against the Zamzam camp, which had been thrust into famine conditions last year.
Reports detail overwhelming conditions faced by the refugees who managed to escape, with many arriving at the nearby Tawila encampment malnourished and traumatized from their experiences. Aid organizations, struggling with resource limitations, say that Zamzam has become largely abandoned due to the aggression of the R.S.F. As the conflict escalates, fears mount about the potential fragmentation of Sudan, with the military asserting control over the north and east while the R.S.F. dominates the west and south.
The current trajectory of violence and humanitarian crisis symbolizes a critical juncture in Sudan's tumultuous past. Observers worry that the situation may worsen, especially as both the R.S.F. and the government forces are implicated in significant human rights violations during the conflict.
