SUDAN – In a surprising move, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, widely known as Hemedti, appeared in public for the first time in two years, breaking his long silence since the outbreak of Sudan’s war in April 2023. Previously confined to audio statements and pre-recorded videos, Hemedti’s public address was broadcast one RSF-affiliated platforms but did not disclose the speech’s exact location. However, the RSF leader hinted that he was still inside Sudan, likely within RSF-controlled territories in the west.
Hemedti saluted his forces, who have been locked in a fierce war with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) for more than two years. “They pushed us out of areas that are very dear to us, and we lost what is most precious,” he said, acknowledging recent defeats. “But we will return with dignity and honor,” he vowed. He also claimed RSF had recently seized control of the “Triangle” in the far northwest, referring to the border area shared with Libya and Egypt.
The RSF has seen major territorial losses over the past year, particularly after a broad counteroffensive by the SAF resulted in the SAF’s full recapture of the capital, Khartoum, and key areas in central Sudan. Once holding significant portions of the capital and broad swathes of Darfur and Kordofan, RSF forces have since been pushed into western and southern regions.
Seeking to calm tensions with neighboring countries, Hemedti used his address to reassure Egypt and Libya. “Our presence in the Triangle serves the interests of our neighbors,” he stated, describing the border zone as a hub for smuggling, terrorism, and irregular migration. He dismissed reports of strained ties with Cairo, labeling the tensions as “fabricated” and reaffirmed his commitment to resolving issues through dialogue.
Hemeti reiterated his long-standing narrative that the RSF is fighting in self-defense and blamed the ongoing war on remnants of Sudan’s former regime. “We did not want this war- it was forced upon us,” he said. “A gang and the old regime ignited the conflict to cling to power,” he added, accusing rivals of “demonizing the RSF” both locally and regionally.
In a directive to RSF troops stationed in western Sudan, Hemedti ordered them to “impose order, vacate civilian’s homes, and uphold the rule of law.” He also promised to resume the payment of salaries to his soldiers, a gesture aimed at boosting morale amid a prolonged and grueling conflict.
The public appearance follows widespread speculation that Hemedti had fled the country during the early stages of the war. His absence had fueled rumors of internal RSF divisions and questions about the group’s command structure.
Since the war began in April 2023, the RSF has been accused of committing widespread atrocities, particularly in Darfur, while the SAF has also been implicated in attacks on civilians. Both sides continue to battle for control across various regions, with no clear end to the devastating conflict in sight.
