Sudanese dialogue immunity excludes Rapid Support Forces: analyst

Political analyst Mahmoud Laouta has clarified that the immunity granted to participants in Sudan's national dialogue does not cover the Rapid Support Forces. Laouta, speaking on Al Arabiya FM, stated that the immunity discussed between the head of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council and army chief, Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, specifically excludes the Rapid Support Forces.

He emphasized that the main goal of Al-Burhan’s initiative is to offer a legal pathway for all politicians to engage in the national dialogue. Laouta indicated that invitations to participate in the dialogue will be extended to the political groups currently active in Sudan. He cautioned that while political dialogue requires adequate tools to ensure political participation, success is not a certainty.

Laouta also highlighted that Al-Burhan’s assurances include legal, political, and security guarantees for participants, with state interference in organizing the dialogue or deciding its composition, agenda, or outcomes being rejected. Participants are anticipated to receive temporary immunity from previous criminal charges, along with permanent immunity for any opinions and positions expressed during the sessions.

However, it remains clear that Al-Burhan opposes any peace agreement that would reinstate the Rapid Support Forces, their leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), or their supporters to positions of power.