(Kampala February 2, 2025) The Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR) welcomes the withdrawal of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) from the city of Umm Rawaba. This development is viewed as a significant step toward ending the RSF’s control over civilian areas, which have endured serious human rights violations, including violence, looting, and the intimidation of civilians.
The network stands in full solidarity with the people of Al-Abbasiya Tagali, who celebrated this milestone as a clear rejection of the presence of armed militias that have inflicted immense suffering on civilians. The withdrawal represents a glimmer of hope for a peaceful and secure future for the affected communities.
DNHR’s Key Demands:
- Prevent RSF Return to Civilian Areas:
- Ensure that the RSF does not return to Umm Rawaba or any other civilian areas. Efforts should be made to clear all Sudanese cities of irregular armed forces to restore stability and safety.
- Transparent Investigations and Accountability:
- Conduct thorough and transparent investigations into the crimes and violations committed during the RSF’s control of Umm Rawaba. Those responsible must be held accountable and brought to justice.
- Securing Liberated Areas:
- Secure areas freed from RSF control and work towards rebuilding civilian institutions to ensure the return of everyday life for residents and the stability of the region.
- Support Community Reconciliation:
- Promote community reconciliation efforts to heal divisions caused by the conflict. Facilitate the return of displaced persons to their homes and provide fair compensation for those affected by war crimes and human rights violations.
The Darfur Network for Human Rights reaffirms that the withdrawal of the RSF from Sudanese cities must be part of a comprehensive national strategy. Such a strategy should aim to:
- End the ongoing conflict.
- Hold all perpetrators of crimes against humanity accountable.
- Ensure justice for victims and prevent impunity for those responsible for atrocities.
DNHR emphasizes the urgent need for coordinated efforts at the local, national, and international levels to secure sustainable peace and justice for all Sudanese citizens.
