Sudan’s army has vowed to deliver a “harsh response” to Wednesday’s attack on a village by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, who pro-democracy activists say killed more than 100 people. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the attack and called for an investigation.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which have been at war with the regular army since April 2023, attacked the village of Wad al-Noura in Gezira State in central Sudan.
The pro-democracy group Wad Madani Resistance Committee said heavy artillery was used and put the toll at “more than 104”.
Wednesday’s violence was the largest in a string of attacks by RSF on small villages across the farming state after it took control of the capital Wad Madani in December.
Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan issued a statement on Thursday promising a harsh response after accusations by local activists that the army did not immediately respond to pleas for help.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the attack, calling on all parties to the war in Sudan to refrain from attacks that harm civilians.
“The Secretary-General expresses his deep concern regarding the immense suffering of the Sudanese population as a result of the continued hostilities,” spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.
“He stresses that it is high time for all parties to silence their guns across Sudan and commit to a path towards sustainable peace for the Sudanese people.”
The UN’s top official in Sudan has called for an investigation.
Furthermore, the Sudan army response highlights the broader implications for the nation’s political and social landscape.
Additionally, the government’s handling of the situation will significantly impact its legitimacy and international standing.
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