Governor of Darfur Region Minni Arko Minnawi described the security and humanitarian situation in El Fasher, North Darfur, as “catastrophic”, citing widespread famine among trapped civilians.
In an interview with the BBC, Minnawi accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia of systematically targeting civilians and destroying the city’s infrastructure, which has been under siege and bombardment for more than a year.
He blamed the international community for the deterioration in El Fasher, saying, “They claim that the RSF is preventing the delivery of aid, but they should instead speak directly to the United Arab Emirates, which is supplying the RSF with support. The army is fighting an unequal battle against a force that possesses oil, gas, and advanced military equipment — including air defense systems that shoot down planes over El Fasher.”
Minnawi also rejected Abu Dhabi’s mediation role in Sudan’s conflict, stating, “The UAE cannot ignite the war and then come to mediate peace. It’s illogical. Even if it participates in the peace process, it seeks to impose colonial conditions, which is unacceptable.”
He expressed objections to the roadmap that the Sudanese government submitted to the United Nations for ending the war and building peace, saying, “Although we are part of the government, we were not consulted in drafting the roadmap. I reject the clause calling for RSF forces to return to their social bases in Darfur, as that would effectively divide Sudan.”
Minnawi concluded, “We will not negotiate with the RSF, as they are currently fighting us and committing acts of genocide in Darfur and elsewhere.”
