Sudan RSF Commander Defects, Accuses Leadership of Nepotism
Senior RSF commander Siddiq Ander claims the group is run as a family business.
By Spark News Desk · · India
Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) lost a senior commander as Siddiq Ander defected, accusing RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, of running the group as a family enterprise. In exclusive footage obtained by Al Jazeera, Ander said the RSF is controlled by Hemedti’s relatives in all aspects, from finances to promotions.
Ander’s defection follows a series of high-profile exits from the RSF this year. Other commanders, including Lieutenant Colonel Mohammed Azraq al-Fanjari and Major General al-Nour Ahmed Adam, have also left, citing internal disputes and abuses. Some defectors joined the rival Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), while others urged others to abandon the RSF.
Ander claimed dissent is harshly punished within the RSF, with critics facing expulsion, imprisonment, or 'hidden death.' The ongoing defections signal growing instability in the RSF amid the ongoing war with the SAF, which began in April 2023 over power and military control.
Why it matters
The RSF’s internal fractures could weaken its position in Sudan’s war, affecting military strategy and troop morale. The defections may also embolden the SAF and shift the balance of power in the conflict.
Sources
- RSF senior commander defects, accusing Sudan group’s leadership of nepotism — Al Jazeera
- Democrats have an identity crisis - it won't be an easy fix — BBC News
Written by the Spark News Desk with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. See our editorial policy. Spotted an error? Tell us.