Sudan's political forces sitting on the fence as war rages on

Violent clashes keep raging on between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Force (RSF) in several areas of Sudan, including the capital Khartoum.

These clashes come in the context of tensions between the army and the RSF which was part of the Popular Resistance Movement in Darfur.

The members of the force were used in the formation of pro-government forces, following the overthrow of former president Omar al-Bashir in 2019.

The Sudanese government demanded the dissolution of the RSF and its integration into the Sudanese army.

However, RSF commanders rejected this request, expressing their dissatisfaction with the government.

The international community seeks mediation and dialogue between the parties to reach a peaceful and lasting solution to the crisis.

Sudan's political forces have also submitted letters to stop the fighting.

The National Umma Party Nation Party called on the armed forces and the RSF to listen to the voice of reason and implement a ceasefire in all locations.

The party also called for the return of all troops to their previous positions, and the formation of a joint committee of Sudanese parties and national figures.

It stressed the importance of an agreement on calm, and the return to the negotiating table to resolve controversial issues.

Meanwhile, the Sudanese Professionals Association called for the cohesion of all segments of society to besiege and isolate all attempts to push for the abyss of civil strife.

It called on all revolutionary bodies to spread the message of peace, and not to engage in any aggressive actions.

The association also called for the formation of vigilante groups to preserve peace and social solidarity in the different neighbourhoods.

In turn, the Coalition of Change Forces warned against the current fighting slipping out of control.

It called on citizens to stay inside their homes and go out only when necessary.

The coalition blamed the army and the RSF for the losses resulting from the clashes.

The civil forces that signed the framework agreement said in a statement that the command of the Sudanese armed forces and the RSF should immediately stop the fighting and avoid the country slipping into the abyss of total collapse.

This pivotal moment in the history of Sudan, it said, requires wisdom and prudence.

African affairs specialist, Amani Taweel, said Sudan and its future hinge on the "Sudanese army and the RSF.

"These two rival parties will be able to resolve the current clashes in various locations in Sudan," she told The Reference.