The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have announced the formation of a civilian administration in Khartoum, a move they claim aims to address governance and service gaps in the war-torn capital. The RSF alleges this step follows similar initiatives in Darfur and Al Jazirah and coincides with ongoing clashes with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
Leadership and Structure
The RSF claims the establishment of a “Civilian Founding Council of Khartoum State,” chaired by Nayel Babiker Nayel, with Professor Abdellatif Al-Hassan as the head of the civilian administration. According to RSF statements, the council comprises 90 members from youth groups, women’s organizations, professional bodies, Sufi orders, and community leaders. Babiker reportedly stated the council’s purpose is to address the crisis caused by the conflict and restore basic services.
Humanitarian Appeals and Peace Efforts
Al-Hassan, in his inaugural speech, called for professionals to resume work and help rebuild essential services. He emphasized the need for peace and humanitarian aid, claiming that SAF airstrikes, including alleged use of barrel bombs, have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. He appealed to international organizations to intervene and assist those in RSF-controlled areas.
RSF’s Position and Intentions
Col. Hasan El Turabi, an RSF official, described the council as a grassroots initiative and pledged RSF support for its security. He reiterated the RSF’s purported commitment to democratic civilian governance and criticized the relocation of administrative functions to Port Sudan by Sudan’s de facto government.
Military Context
Despite RSF assertions of control over Khartoum, the SAF has recently reclaimed key areas, including Khartoum Bahri, Al-Maqran, and Omdurman. The SAF maintains its headquarters in Karari locality. The RSF’s claims of establishing a civilian administration introduce new complexities to the conflict, raising questions about governance and stability amid ongoing hostilities.
Independent verification of these developments remains challenging, as the conflict continues to impact access and reporting in the region.