KHARTOUM: Tensions between the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the army boiled over into violence on Saturday, with the RSF claiming control of Khartoum international airport and the Merowe military base.
Gunfire was heard across the capital and in neighbouring towns as cannons and armoured vehicles were deployed on the streets. The RSF accused the army of launching a “brute assault” on one of its bases and firing heavy weapons.
The RSF, a powerful paramilitary group led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, widely known as Hemedti, has been seeking to integrate its units into the military as per a transition plan that would eventually lead to new elections.
The group was instrumental in overthrowing long-ruling autocrat Omar al-Bashir in 2019. However, tensions have been simmering between the RSF and the army, with the latter accusing the former of making illegal movements in the town of Merowe without coordination.
The situation came to a head on Saturday as clashes erupted across the capital and beyond. Eyewitnesses reported hearing heavy weapons fire near the headquarters of both the army and the RSF.
Sudanese army yet to comment on the situation
The RSF claimed it had taken control of Khartoum international airport and the Merowe military base. The army has not yet commented on the situation.
The violence has sparked concern that it could undermine efforts to return Sudan to civilian rule after several years of power struggles and military coups.
General Hemedti had put himself at the forefront of the transition toward democracy, causing unease among fellow military rulers.
A confrontation between his paramilitary forces and the army could spell prolonged strife in a country already dealing with economic breakdown and tribal violence.
The RSF has called on local and international mediators to condemn the army’s actions and has said it is in contact with them.
The situation is fluid, and it is not yet clear what the outcome will be.
