20/2/2023: Multiple sources: Himedti says 2021 coup was a mistake

· Radio Dabanga

· BBC, by Dickens Olewe

Himedti, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commander and vice-president of Sudan’s ruling Sovereign Council, labelled the 25 October 2021 military a “mistake” that has become a gateway for affiliates of the former regime of ex-president Omar al-Bashir to regain their political foothold

His comments come amid growing tension between the RSF and the army chief Gen Abdulfattah al-Burhan, Sudan’s de-facto leader, who recently warned that he would not tolerate the RSF operating as an independent force and should instead be merged into the army.

According the BBC, Himedti’s comments could be seen as a deliberate attempt to break with the army and ally with some civilian groups amid indications that such an overture could be welcomed, as civilian groups feel they need an armed ally to taken on the military authorities. However, the BBC note, there is concern that such a move could lead to further instability.