Sudan's Al-Burhan Calls for Classification of Rapid Support Forces as Terrorist Group
In a significant address at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the head of Sudan's Transitional Sovereignty Council and Commander-in-Chief of the Sudanese Armed Forces, has urged the international community to classify the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as a terrorist group. Al-Burhan's statement highlights the crimes of ethnic cleansing, forced displacement, and genocide that have been documented against the RSF, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these atrocities.
Al-Burhan asserted that the RSF, described as a 'rebel terrorist militia,' is waging a war against the Sudanese people with both local and regional support, defying international law. He stated, "You have followed the extent of the crimes, atrocities, and violations committed by this rebel group against the Sudanese people and the Sudanese state entity." His remarks come amid ongoing violence and instability in Sudan, which has escalated since the RSF's attempt to seize power by force.
A Roadmap for Peace in Sudan
In his speech, Al-Burhan presented a clear map for ending the ongoing conflict in Sudan. He outlined a two-pronged approach: first, an immediate end to combat operations, necessitating the withdrawal of the RSF from occupied areas, followed by their disarmament. Secondly, he called for a comprehensive political process aimed at restoring democratic governance and preventing future conflicts. Al-Burhan reiterated the Sudanese Armed Forces' commitment to facilitating a transition to civilian rule and ensuring that the will of the Sudanese people prevails.
He emphasized the need for national ownership of solutions to avoid the recurrence of military coups and wars, reaffirming the government's commitment to peace with armed groups and adherence to the Juba Peace Agreement signed in 2020. Al-Burhan's call to action underscores the critical need for international support in addressing the humanitarian crisis and restoring stability in Sudan.
