West Darfur Governor Stands Firm to Prevent RSF Militia’s Atrocities and Chaos in Darfur
General Bahr El-Din Adam Karama, Governor of West Darfur, declared that the atrocities committed in El Geneina and Ardamata at the onset of the war are crimes that will never be forgotten. “We will not bargain over the blood of the martyrs or the rights of widows and the bereaved,” he said.
In his first candid and comprehensive interview with Sudanhorizon, General Karama spoke boldly and responsibly about the security and humanitarian challenges in the region, his vision for reconstruction, his stance on the violations committed against civilians, and how justice for victims can be achieved. He affirmed: Darfur will not be turned into a haven for chaos, and the voice of truth will rise above the sound of guns.
Interview by Maryam Abshir
How would you describe the security situation on the ground? Are there still areas under government control that remain safe?
Let me be clear: the security challenges in West Darfur are enormous. Armed rebellion has shattered the social fabric and turned our region into a corridor for weapons and logistical support for militias. The situation has deteriorated to the point where the state is being used as a hub to treat wounded rebels and transport hired gunmen.
However, we have an iron will, and we are working closely with national forces to regain control. We will not allow Darfur to become a base for chaos or a playground for impunity.
Are humanitarian aid efforts reaching those in need?
The humanitarian situation is tragic in every sense of the word. Thousands of displaced people have fled to eastern Chad. Border crossings, such as Adré, which the government has agreed to open, are now lifelines for limited aid to reach those affected.
International organizations are trying, but their efforts fall short of the overwhelming needs. Worse still, the rebels hijack and redirect aid to their fighters.
Are there organized obstacles blocking humanitarian convoys?
Yes, we have documented evidence of systematic looting and obstruction carried out by the rebel Rapid Support Forces. This is a criminal behavior that targets the vulnerable and must be unequivocally condemned.
How is your relationship with the local community?
We are part of the people and for the people. We live the same hardships—we are not secluded in ivory towers. Our relationship is one of shared destiny, and I am proud of the resilience of the people of Darfur, whose determination has not been broken despite the tragedies.
What is your position on the violations committed, including the murder of martyr Khamees Abakar?
(The Governor speaks in a low voice, then firmly): What happened in El Geneina and Ardamata—killings, looting, rape, and forced displacement—is a stain of shame on everyone who took part or remained silent in the face of it.
The murder of martyr Khamees Abdallah Abakar is a heinous crime. It will not be erased by silence or time. Justice will take its course.
How do you see the prospects for reconstruction in rural areas?
The countryside is the beating heart of Darfur. We are working on a plan that includes infrastructure, education, and public services. We will rely on community-driven efforts to make up for the absence of international funding.
Thousands of martyrs have left behind families and children. What are your plans for supporting them?
We have formed a committee to count and register the families of martyrs. We will provide them with support and rehabilitation. These families are the fuel of our resilience, and their dignity is our responsibility.
How do you assess the role of social media in documenting the war’s atrocities in the state?
Social media is a double-edged sword. It has helped document events, but it has also spread misinformation. We urge people to verify facts, because a single false claim could cost lives.
The murder of the former governor, martyr Khamees Abakar, was terrifying. Are you afraid for your own life? Where do you draw your strength from?
Fear is natural. But we forget it when we see the hungry children and grieving mothers. We draw strength from the patience of our people, from their prayers, and from our belief in the just cause of our nation.
We’re now in the rainy season, which brings blessings but also diseases. How are you preparing to face these seasonal challenges amid the current crisis?
We’ve prepared an emergency plan that includes:
Supporting health initiatives
Launching awareness campaigns to combat cholera and malaria
Coordinating with all health organizations to increase readiness
Were students in the state able to sit for the Sudanese certificate exams?
(The Governor, proudly): Despite all the challenges, 820 students from our state sat for their exams in the River Nile and Northern states.
We are also working to provide alternative opportunities for students in eastern Chad.
And I thank the Ministry of Education for its tremendous efforts.
Consultations are underway to form the “Government of Hope.” In your opinion, will this government succeed in rebuilding what the war destroyed?
(The Governor, calmly): The government was born under exceptional circumstances. Success is possible if there is the will and a genuine alignment with the voice of the people. We hope it restores the authority of the state and corrects the current course.
Why are some Juba Peace Agreement signatories holding on to power positions?
(The Governor, frankly): It is their right under the agreement, which guarantees them their positions until the end of the transitional period.
Some criticize the role of the Joint Forces, saying they are ineffective. What’s your response?
(General Karama responds): That’s an unfair opinion. Anyone who thinks otherwise should go see an “eye specialist.” The Joint Forces have played a clear and essential role, despite limited resources, and have been present in key areas.
El Fasher, the capital of Darfur, is under siege by militias. How do you assess the humanitarian situation there?
El Fasher is not just a city—it is a symbol of Darfur’s resilience. What is happening there is a humanitarian crime in broad daylight. It is being besieged, bombarded, and denied humanitarian aid—while the international community stands by and watches.
I call on all journalists to expose what is happening, not only in El Fasher but across all of Darfur.
Your final message?
We will never bargain over the blood of the martyrs. We will never compromise on the rights of widows and orphans. Darfur will return to its people and will never become a base for chaos.
In conclusion, I extend deep thanks to the Sudanhorizon team for this opportunity and for your professionalism in both content and approach.
Free, national journalism is a vital partner in the battle for awareness, truth, and the defense of our people and homeland. May you always remain the voice of the living conscience in this critical chapter of our nation’s history.
Shortlink: https://sudanhorizon.com/?p=6526