MEDIA STATEMENT

MEDIA STATEMENT

May 14, 2023

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) expresses its sincere concern over the recent shooting at Mary Gergers Church in Omdurman.

The attack took place in the Al-Masalma neighborhood and led to serious injuries among church worshippers.

We extend our deepest sympathy to the victims and their families, as well as our support at this difficult time.

The RSF would like to address recent disinformation campaigns, claiming that we are a religious-based organization. Sudanese nationals of various religious denominations serve within our ranks, including Muslims and Christians.

Any attempts to allege differently by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and its extremist backers linked to the former regime of dictator Omar al-Bashir are aimed at diverting the world’s attention from their losses on the battlefield.

The SAF and its extremist backers have gone to tremendous lengths to expand the circle of those participating in the war, including by arming loyalists to the former regime and members of the Central Police Reserve.

We condemn these actions, as well as their ongoing efforts to breed ethno-religious discord in Sudan and disrupt the social fabric of our nation.

The recent abhorrent, racially motivated assassination of Amir Hasaballah, the director of media and public relations at the General Football Federation, demonstrates the severity of the situation. Such acts are not only aimed at inciting tribal strife but also at undermining the stability of our society.

We have seen numerous air raids conducted by the SAF on areas throughout Khartoum since the outbreak of the war. These include the Abu Haraz Satellite Station in Jabal Al-Awliya, which was destroyed as a result.

In light of these circumstances, we urge for an independent investigation into the incident at Mary Gergers Church and other violations that have occurred since the the war began. We stress our willingness to accept responsibility, should it be proven that the RSF is anywhere to blame.

The RSF remains committed to peace, security, and justice.

We will continue to work diligently to safeguard the rights and well-being of the people of Sudan, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliation.

Official Spokesperson

Rapid Support Forces