Khartoum: Rhino – The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on Thursday expressed regret that it was not given an opportunity to respond before the publication of the report presented by the United Nations fact-finding mission in Sudan to the 57th session of the Human Rights Council in Sudan on Sept. 5. It said this would have been in line with accepted principles of international justice.
In a statement issued late Thursday evening, the RSF said it had previously expressed its willingness to meet with members of the mission to coordinate, exchange information and address specific allegations, but its offer was rejected and the mission did not visit areas under its control to investigate the allegations on the ground or meet with civilians.
The RSF acknowledges the efforts made by UNMISS within the scope of its mandate and supports the importance of an independent and impartial investigation into the crimes committed across Sudan since the outbreak of the recent conflict on April 15, 2023.
The RSF emphasized the importance of conducting an impartial fact-finding process and ensuring balanced reporting on the situation in Sudan, and to this end, the RSF calls for the extension of UNMIS’ mandate. The RSF expects the mission to prioritize communication with them in order to ensure that future conclusions are based on a comprehensive understanding of the situation on the ground. This will include recognizing the RSF’s ongoing humanitarian efforts to protect civilians and maintain stability in areas under its control, as well as the legal efforts it has taken to enhance the protection of civilians and ensure accountability for laws of war violations committed by its personnel.