In a powerful display of unity and a call for peace, hundreds of Sudanese citizens gathered in the cities of eastern Darfur state to protest against the prolonged war in Sudan, pitting the National Army forces against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for several months.
The Sudanese Popular Forces, advocating for an end to negative phenomena and embracing diversity, spearheaded the initiative behind these major demonstrations in East Darfur. Protesters voiced their opposition to division and fanaticism in Sudan, rallying under the banner of “A Sudan that accommodates everyone.”
Demonstrators expressed gratitude to what they referred to as sister countries, specifically mentioning the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kenya, and Uganda for their support.
Taking their cause to social media, the demonstrators launched an extensive campaign using the hashtag #New_Sudan. Posts emphasized the vision of a Sudan free from regional racism and capable of accommodating everyone.
The anti-war forces commenced their activism in Khartoum State on July 12, 2023. During a press conference in Khartoum, the founders highlighted the formation of the anti-war forces, emphasizing their commitment to swallowing the war and contributing to stability. They urged citizens to raise their voices against war and called for solidarity.
The women’s representative within the forces expressed full solidarity, emphasizing the personal toll of war on women who have lost family members. The founders called on all citizens in northern Sudan to unite around the popular forces, urging them to oppose the war and mediate with conflicting parties to cease hostilities.
Additionally, the founders appealed to the international community to provide humanitarian aid to all Sudanese citizens, halt attacks on civilians, and prevent the destruction of infrastructure. They declared their solidarity with war victims and their families, urging recognition, compensation, and an immediate end to the conflict. The demonstration marks a significant grassroots effort to bring about peace and stability in Sudan.