RIYADH: Saudi Arabia on Friday condemned a decision by Sudanese paramilitaries to form a rival government in the African nation.
Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement rejected any step or illegal measure taken outside the framework of official institutions of the Republic of Sudan, susceptible to affecting its unity and not reflecting the will of its people, including the call to form a parallel government.
The statement comes after the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allies fighting Sudan’s regular army for almost two years, agreed to form such a body. Saudi Arabia had previously mediated talks in a bid to end Sudan’s war.
The foreign ministry added that such actions do not reflect the will of the Sudanese people and could further destabilise the war-torn nation. The Kingdom reaffirmed its unwavering support for Sudan’s security, stability, and territorial integrity.
Saudi Arabia called upon the Sudanese parties to prioritise the national interest over factional divisions and to work toward preventing further fragmentation and chaos.
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Earlier several members of the UN Security Council expressed concern over the Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces’ decision to declare a parallel government.
US Representative John Kelley during a Security Council meeting on Wednesday cautioned that the establishment of a rival administration in RSF-controlled areas could escalate the conflict and potentially result in the de facto partition of Sudan.
The ongoing conflict between Sudan’s Armed Forces and the RSF has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of casualties and millions displaced. Saudi Arabia, together with international partners, has been actively involved in mediation efforts to help achieve a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
