Sudan’s Darfur Governor Calls for RSF Withdrawal and Truce Conditions
On November 8, 2025, in Port Sudan, the governor of Darfur, Minni Arko Minawi, called for the withdrawal of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) from urban areas. He emphasized that the release of abductees and the safe return of displaced people must be key conditions for any potential truce.
“Any truce without this means the division of Sudan,” Minawi, who leads the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM), stated. His remarks underscored the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis in the region while also highlighting the broader political implications of a fragile peace.
Minawi is also responsible for overseeing the Joint Force, a coalition of Darfur-based movements that operate alongside the Sudanese army. In a separate statement, the force reiterated Minawi’s demands, signaling a unified stance on the need for a comprehensive resolution to the ongoing conflict.
The army’s position regarding the U.S.-backed humanitarian truce, which the Quad mechanism seeks to establish, remains unclear. The Sudanese Security and Defence Council, which convened last week, did not provide a definitive response to the truce proposal. While it acknowledged the efforts of Washington’s envoy to alleviate civilian suffering, it simultaneously stressed the importance of maintaining general mobilization to achieve a military victory over the RSF.
Key Developments and Regional Context
The Joint Force has deployed its forces across several regions, including North Darfur, North Kordofan, Khartoum, and Northern Sudan. These deployments reflect the complexity of the conflict and the need for coordinated action across multiple fronts.
In a significant development, the RSF took control of El Fasher on October 26. This event was followed by widespread reports of mass killings and sexual violence, sparking outrage among local populations and drawing international condemnation. The situation has further escalated tensions in the region and highlighted the urgent need for intervention and stability.
Ongoing Challenges and International Attention
The conflict in Darfur continues to pose serious challenges for both the Sudanese government and the international community. Efforts to secure a lasting truce are complicated by the presence of multiple armed groups, each with their own interests and objectives. The RSF, in particular, has been a central player in the conflict, often acting independently of the government and engaging in violent actions that have led to significant civilian casualties.
As the situation evolves, the role of external actors, such as the United States and other international partners, becomes increasingly important. Their involvement in mediating peace talks and providing humanitarian aid is critical in addressing the immediate needs of affected populations and laying the groundwork for long-term stability.
Future Prospects and Humanitarian Needs
With the conflict showing no signs of abating, the humanitarian situation in Darfur remains dire. Displaced families continue to face challenges in accessing basic necessities such as food, water, and medical care. The international community must remain vigilant and committed to supporting the people of Darfur through sustained assistance and diplomatic efforts.
The path to peace in Sudan is fraught with obstacles, but the voices of leaders like Minni Arko Minawi serve as a reminder of the urgent need for dialogue, compromise, and collective action. Only through a unified approach can the region hope to overcome the divisions that have persisted for years.