Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemeti, claims to have over 500,000 fighters in Sudan and expresses a desire not to become president during a recent meeting with Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni.
During a recent meeting in Uganda, Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, the leader of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces, affirmed his military strength by stating that his forces have grown to over 500,000 fighters from an initial 123,000 since the onset of the conflict. This meeting, his first international appearance since September, has stirred significant debate and criticism both in Sudan and internationally.
Hamidti has made bold claims regarding his stance on the political situation in Sudan, declaring that he would not support any division of the country and calling on political factions in exile to return and engage in the national dialogue. He categorically dismissed proposals for peace that resemble previous accords like the Juba Agreement and the Naivasha Agreement, which he claims did not serve the country's interests. Furthermore, in light of recent military setbacks, he insists on the integrity and sovereignty of his forces, denying any involvement of foreign mercenaries in the conflict.
This statement emerges at a time when Sudan is grappling with severe military challenges, and Hamidti's assertion suggests a sustained commitment to his military operations despite a declining situation. His refusal to seek the presidency indicates a strategic choice to position himself as a stabilizing force rather than a traditional political figure, aiming to consolidate power while purging Islamist elements from the country's political landscape.
