Sudan has accused Western media outlets of distorting the facts surrounding its ongoing civil war by supporting the narrative of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, stemmed from rising tensions between Sudan’s military and the RSF, a paramilitary group led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo. This has led to a devastating humanitarian crisis, including mass displacement, widespread hunger, and thousands of casualties.
Khalid Alesir, Sudan’s Minister of Information and Culture, strongly rebuked Western media for what he claims is a biased portrayal of the conflict. Specifically, he refuted allegations that the Sudanese army was intentionally targeting civilians, calling such accusations “unjustified.” Alesir argued that the Sudanese military is not responsible for the bombing of civilian areas and contended that the Sudanese people would confirm that their army protects civilians from violence.
Instead, Alesir placed the blame on the RSF, accusing them of using civilians as targets and causing forced displacements. He emphasized that the army has been committed to safeguarding those fleeing the violence. In his statements, Alesir also criticized political factions, including the Western-backed Tagadum group, for aligning with the RSF and distorting the truth about the conflict.
The RSF’s influence extends beyond the battlefield, as Alesir pointed out that these militias have also targeted Sudanese media outlets, inflicting significant financial losses. However, the attacks have prompted the emergence of new media organizations aimed at countering the RSF’s narrative and preserving the Sudanese public’s access to impartial news.
Alesir further noted the role of Turkish diplomacy in facilitating peace efforts. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has led mediation efforts between Sudan and the UAE, with Sudan seeking to address its grievances at the United Nations after filing a formal complaint against the UAE. The UAE has denied the allegations, but the diplomatic dialogue continues to unfold amid the escalating conflict.
The Sudanese government’s accusations highlight the deepening international divide over the portrayal of the conflict, as both sides vie for global support and seek to control the narrative surrounding the war.
