“Unveiling the RSF Leader: A Rare Video Appearance Amidst Sudan’s Conflict”

Sudan’s Paramilitary Leader Makes First Video Appearance Amid Conflict.

Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as “Hemedti”, appeared in a video posted on Twitter, marking his first public appearance since the conflict began in April. The footage showed him looking thin, and there were speculations about a possible injury sustained during the war.

In his address, Hemedti maintained his ongoing rivalry with Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the head of the military, as they vie for control of the country. He stated that if the army’s leadership changed, he would agree to a peace deal within 72 hours.

Hemedti rose to power through the Janjaweed militia, accused of ethnic cleansing during the Darfur conflict. After former President Omar al-Bashir’s ousting in 2019, he backed the move, positioning himself for a more prominent role. However, his alliance with Gen Burhan dissolved dramatically three months ago.

During the war, the RSF (Rapid Support Forces) established bases in residential areas of Greater Khartoum, which have been frequently targeted by airstrikes.

In his speech, Hemedti strongly criticized Yasir al-Atta, a high-ranking army officer leading operations in Omdurman. He apologized to the Sudanese people for the war’s impact, which he claimed was imposed on the RSF.

Addressing the accusations of mass looting in Khartoum and other areas, Hemedti denied that the RSF members were involved in such activities.