Sudan's regular army has incorporated former Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commanders and other Darfur paramilitary defectors into its official ranks [1, 2].

The move has sparked widespread anger because critics fear these commanders may use their new positions to evade justice for alleged war crimes and atrocities [1, 2].

Reports indicate that the Sudanese Armed Forces have provided the defectors with official uniforms and ranks within the military structure in Khartoum [1, 2]. These defections were formalized in May 2024 [1, 2].

Among the defectors is Ali Rizkallah, who served as an RSF commander for approximately three years before switching sides [1]. The integration of such figures into the state security apparatus comes amid ongoing instability in the region.

Observers said that the transition of paramilitary fighters into the regular army is intended to weaken the RSF's operational capacity. However, the lack of a vetting process for those accused of human rights abuses has become a point of contention for victims and legal advocates [1, 2].

“Sudan's regular army has incorporated former Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commanders and other Darfur paramilitary defectors into its official ranks”

The integration of RSF defectors into the Sudanese Armed Forces represents a strategic attempt to dismantle the paramilitary structure from within. However, by granting official ranks to individuals linked to alleged atrocities, the army risks undermining the rule of law and alienating populations in Darfur who seek accountability for war crimes.