The European Union’s Council has implemented restrictive measures against six individuals deemed responsible for activities that threaten the country’s political transition. The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues to wreak havoc, with each side enlisting their respective militias in the ongoing violence.
Among those newly sanctioned is Abdulrahman Juma Barakallah, a General commanding the RSF in West Darfur. Barakallah stands accused of orchestrating a series of atrocities, including ethnically motivated killings, targeted attacks on human rights activists and defenders, conflict-related sexual violence, and the looting and burning of entire communities.
The RSF’s financial adviser and a prominent tribal leader of the Mahamid clan, who is affiliated with the RSF in West Darfur, have also been sanctioned. The EU’s action aims to cut off financial support and mobility for those perpetuating violence and obstructing peace efforts in the region.
On the SAF side, the sanctions target the Director General of the Defense Industry System (DIS) and El Tahir Mohamed El Awad El Amin, the Commander of the Sudanese Air Force. The DIS has been previously sanctioned by the EU, and El Amin is held responsible for the indiscriminate aerial bombing of densely populated residential areas since the conflict’s onset.
Additionally, Ali Ahmed Karti Mohamed, a former Sudanese Minister of Foreign Affairs under the regime of Omar al-Bashir, has been listed. Karti is implicated in activities that undermine the fragile political landscape in Sudan.
The restrictive measures entail an asset freeze and a prohibition on the provision of funds or economic resources to the sanctioned individuals, either directly or indirectly. These individuals are also subject to travel bans within the European Union.
With the latest additions, the Sudan sanctions regime now covers six individuals and six entities. The EU’s actions reflect a broader commitment to curbing the violence and fostering a stable political transition in Sudan.
“The European Union remains steadfast in its support for the Sudanese people and their aspirations for peace and democracy. These measures are a clear message to those who seek to disrupt the path to stability,” said a spokesperson for the EU Council.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
