African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC) has faulted the declaration of a parallel government in Sudan by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), insisting that such a move threatens the country’s unity and could lead to its partition.

While affirming Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the body called on all member states and the international community to reject any attempt to create an alternative administration in Sudan.

In a statement issued, yesterday, after its 1,264th meeting held on March 11, 2025 in Addis Ababa, the council also cautioned against providing any form of support or recognition to political or armed groups attempting to establish a separate governing entity.

The AU’s position comes amid a worsening conflict in Sudan, which has displaced more than 12 million people and created what the PSC described as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.

The organisation insisted that it would not recognise the purported parallel government or entity in the Republic of Sudan.

It, however, called on all parties to observe a ceasefire during the holy month of Ramadan and allow for unrestricted humanitarian aid to reach those in need.

The statement read in part: “Council expressed its grave concern and outright condemnation of the recent developments in Sudan, in particular the announcement by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its affiliated political and social forces of the establishment of a parallel government in the Republic of Sudan, and warned that such action carries a huge risk of partitioning of the country.”

Reacting to AU’s position, Sudan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement yesterday commended the courage of member states in taking such stands, saying it would strengthen the unity and partnership of African countries, in line with the common charters and principles upon which the African Union was based.