Sudan Faces Potential Split as Rival Factions Declare Parallel Governments

Khartoum-Sudan is teetering on the brink of division after two rival factions declared separate governments, raising alarms of a possible national split. The announcement comes amid escalating tensions between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), both vying for control since conflict erupted in April 2023.

The SAF, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, continues to operate from Port Sudan, while the RSF, commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), has reportedly announced a parallel government from territories under its control. This development marks a serious escalation in the ongoing civil war, now stretching well over a year.

In response, the African Union (AU) has urged the international community not to recognise any parallel authority. “Any such move would deepen the crisis and weaken efforts for a peaceful, united Sudan,” the AU warned in a statement.

Humanitarian conditions across the country remain dire, with millions displaced and essential services collapsing. International actors have called for urgent mediation but have struggled to bring both sides to the negotiating table.

As fears of territorial fragmentation grow, observers warn that recognising either rival government could set a dangerous precedent and prolong the devastating conflict.