Photo : Jok Solomun, Reuters
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Jok Solomun, Reuters
IN BRIEF
By Anu Maria Joseph
Sudan: The US calls on RSF to stop shelling civilian regions
On 20 October, the US called on the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group fighting against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in Sudan to stop shelling in civilian regions stating that it was “deepening the suffering of the Sudanese people.” The Department of State commented: "The United States calls on the RSF to immediately cease shelling of civilian neighbourhoods and to protect civilians in Nyala, Omdurman, and throughout Sudan.” The RSF and SAF have been fighting since April, a conflict that according to the UN has killed more than 5000 people and displaced nearly five million. Recently, RSF increased its attacks in the civilian regions near Omdurman and Bahri to weaken the SAF held regions. (“US urges Sudan's RSF to stop shelling civilian areas,” BBC, 20 October 2023)
Somaliland: Tensions with Somalia
On 20 October, Somaliland condemned the move by the Somali government announcing that it would work with self-declared administration in the disputed regions of Somaliland including Sool, Sanaag and Ayn (SSC-Khatumo). Somaliland claimed that the move is a "deliberate attack on Somaliland's statehood and territorial integrity.” Although the Somali government did not recognise the self-declared regions, it welcomed the formation of the SSC Khatumo. Somaliland authority stated: "The government of Somaliland firmly asserts that neither Somalia nor the clan militia have jurisdiction or claim over Las Anod.” In 1991, Somaliland unilaterally claimed autonomy from Somalia and has since been seeking international recognition. (“Somaliland accuses Somalia of 'attack' on its statehood,” BBC, 20 October 2023)