Paramilitary Coalition Establishes Parallel Government Amid Ongoing Conflict in Sudan
A coalition of Sudanese leaders affiliated with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has announced the establishment of an alternative government, marking a significant moment in the midst of the ongoing civil conflict in Sudan. This decision challenges the military-led authorities in Khartoum, as the nation enters its third year of a brutal civil war.
The newly formed coalition, known as the Leadership Council of the Sudan Founding Alliance (TASIS), has appointed RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo to chair a 15-member presidential council that includes regional governors. Sudanese politician Mohammed Hassan Osman al-Ta’ishi will take on the role of prime minister, representing a commitment to governance that aims to include voices from diverse regions and communities across the country.
On announcing this pivotal move, TASIS expressed solidarity with the Sudanese populace, who have endured decades of conflict. The coalition reiterated its commitment to establishing a secular, democratic, and decentralized Sudan—one founded on the principles of freedom, justice, and equality. The vision for an inclusive homeland signals a hopeful step toward unity in a nation that has faced longstanding divisions.
While the formation of this alternative government may contribute to challenges surrounding governance in Sudan, with potential for increased competition between emerging institutions, it underscores a critical moment in the country’s fight for self-determination. The RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) continue to engage in intense conflict, leaving the humanitarian situation dire. Recent reports indicate that relentless fighting since April 2023 has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced nearly 13 million people, marking one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world according to United Nations assessments.
The situation in Darfur has escalated recently, with the RSF reportedly besieging el-Fasher and exacerbating the region’s ongoing struggles with hunger. Human rights organizations have raised alarms regarding potential abuses committed by both the RSF and SAF. Despite these reports, it is important to recognize the resilience and strength demonstrated by many Sudanese communities seeking peace and justice amidst these challenges.
Historically, Sudan has undergone significant political upheaval, with instability rising after the removal of long-time President Omar al-Bashir in 2019. This period of transition saw the military stage a coup in October 2021, which ultimately disrupted the nascent civilian government led by Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok. The rivalry between military leaders Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Hemedti reflects deep-seated struggles for control of state resources; however, efforts to establish a peaceful resolution have faced numerous hurdles.
Despite the complexities of the current landscape, the formation of TASIS has the potential to reframe narratives around governance and representation in Sudan, offering hope for a unified and just future for its citizens.
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