Aasai

Kenya’s foreign policy has come under fire after hosting leaders of Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nairobi for an event to announce the formation of a “peace and unity government” in Sudan. The move has sparked widespread condemnation both domestically and internationally, with critics accusing Kenya of legitimizing a group notorious for human rights violations and atrocities.

Sudan’s foreign ministry, loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, strongly condemned Kenya, accusing it of interfering in the country’s internal affairs and endorsing the RSF’s actions. “This move promotes the dismembering of African states, violates their sovereignty, and interferes in their internal affairs,” the ministry stated.

The RSF, embroiled in a two-year war with Sudan’s army, has been accused of genocide, ethnic massacres, and crimes against humanity, particularly in Darfur. The groups leader, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who has been sanctioned by the United States, was reportedly in Kenya for the event.

President William Ruto has also faced harsh criticism at home. Former UNCTAD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi described the decision as “criminally irresponsible,” accusing the government of abandoning Kenya’s traditionally cautious and principled diplomacy. “Ruto is trying to legitimize a criminal gang that has been dismembering people,” Kituyi told AFP.

Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs defended the move, arguing that hosting the RSF aligns with its role in facilitating peace negotiations. However, observers believe the decision undermines Kenya’s reputation as a neutral peace mediator.

The African Union also voiced concerns over the continued escalation of violence in Sudan, where the RSF’s actions have further divided the nation. Analysts warn that hosting the RSF in Nairobi tarnishes Kenya’s image as a regional peace broker and raises questions about its commitment to upholding human rights and sovereignty in Africa.

With mounting criticism, Kenya now faces the challenge of repairing its diplomatic standing amid accusations of siding with a group responsible for war crimes and destabilizing the region.