SUDAN INSIGHT ALERT: Washington Post - The warlord wrecking Sudan’s revolution

18/6/19: Washington Post – The warlord wrecking Sudan’s revolution, by Ishaan Tharoor

 Ishaan Tharoor argues that Himedti is “no would-be democrat,” citing his legacy as the leader of the RSF, “which, before being rebranded, rampaged through Darfur as the infamous Janjaweed militia.”

 Niemat Ahmadi, the founder of the Washington-based Darfur Women Action Group, said that Himedti “grew prominent” from killing, destroying villages and raping in Darfur.

She added that the TMC has grown more confident due to Saudi and Emirati supporting. Tharoor notes that Himedti is styling the RSF as the guarantors of national stability —“ a mantra often preached in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi,” suggesting that they may be offering him lessons in messaging.

Tharoor also highlights activist fears that Himedti and Al Burhan may appoint a parallel body to lead Sudan, to “further erode what hope there is for a civilian-led democracy,” after Himedti’s “[reneging] on earlier deals made [with the] main opposition groups.”