Khartoum: The Governor of the Darfur Region, Minni Arko Minnawi, asserted that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia and the newly emerged group 'Tasis' are essentially indistinguishable, arguing that they share mutual objectives and responsibilities. He emphasized that many mistakenly view them as separate entities when, in reality, they are deeply intertwined.
According to Sudan News Agency, Minnawi, through a Facebook post, described the RSF as a military group that originated under former President Omar Al-Bashir's regime. It is rooted in tribal recruitment patterns similar to the Janjaweed, with attempts to obscure its history of widespread violations in Darfur through rebranding. Minnawi highlighted that the RSF has been associated with severe crimes, including killings and forced displacement, leading to millions being driven into IDP and refugee camps.
Minnawi underscored the lack of a clear political or national agenda within the RSF, noting its operations were driven by force and control over resources. This organization, he claimed, has historically pledged loyalty to those offering protection, sometimes benefiting from international arrangements under the guise of combating irregular migration, despite being a primary cause of such displacement.
Regarding 'Tasis,' Minnawi argued that it positions itself as an emerging political entity but remains connected to the RSF's legacy of violence. He highlighted accusations against its military components for involvement in significant incidents such as the siege of El-Fashir and grave human rights violations, including alleged genocide and ethnic cleansing.
Minnawi criticized efforts to dissociate 'Tasis' from the RSF as superficial, stating that accountability cannot be evaded by simply changing names. He stressed that consistent justice must be applied to all entities involved in or supporting these violations.
In conclusion, Minnawi stated that although names may change, the facts and crimes remain, and they cannot be erased or absolved through rebranding.