As the war in Sudan between the Sudanese Army and the Rapid Support Forces approaches nearly a year, a member of the External Advisory Council for the Rapid Support Forces commander, Ammar Al-Siddiq, stated on Monday that Islamists are hindering negotiations and peace efforts.
He also noted that the army leadership is powerless.
Responding to statements made by Sudanese Army General Yasser Al-Atta, Al-Siddiq remarked that “Al-Atta’s comments bring nothing new.
We’ve seen escalations from army leaders on several occasions whenever they receive military support or international backing, or when armed groups join them in fighting against the Rapid Support Forces. They always come out with escalatory statements.”
Al-Siddiq further explained in an interview with the Arab World Press Agency (AWP) that the involvement of armed groups with the army could lead to increased intensity, violence, and conflict spreading to new areas.
He expressed concern as these groups operate in multiple regions, including eastern Sudan, central Sudan, and specifically Darfur in El Fasher. The addition of new conflict zones means more casualties and prolonged strife.
He criticized the army’s hope for victory through the alliance with armed groups, citing the army’s defeat in 112 battles against the Rapid Support Forces.
Al-Siddiq emphasized the need for negotiations and ceasefire initiatives, stating that the current war will only prolong suffering and deepen the humanitarian crisis.
Regarding Sudanese General Yasser Al-Atta’s statement on no negotiations or truces with the Rapid Support Forces militia, Al-Siddiq stressed that all initiatives aimed at ending the war are welcome, provided they are serious and inclusive of all stakeholders.
He highlighted the Jeddah platform as the closest venue for ceasefire negotiations, endorsed by regional organizations such as IGAD, the African Union, and the Arab League. Al-Siddiq cautioned against new platforms that start from scratch, warning that they would only prolong the conflict.
Al-Siddiq also criticized the lack of authority and willingness among army negotiators, often controlled by remnants of the old regime, hindering meaningful dialogue.
In response to inquiries about the Rapid Support Forces’ readiness to accept a ceasefire, Al-Siddiq stated that they always accept ceasefires, while the army and its allied militias violate them to prevent peace.
The statement follows the announcement by the leader of the Sudan Liberation Army and Darfur Governor Minni Arko Minawi on Sunday, declaring his movement’s mobilization to Khartoum to join the Sudanese army in its ongoing battles against the Rapid Support Forces since mid-April 2023.
