President William Ruto has firmly rejected allegations that Kenya is backing Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the ongoing conflict. Speaking during the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, Ruto described the claims as “rumours and propaganda” designed to tarnish his administration’s reputation.
In an interview with France 24, the Head of State clarified that Kenya maintains a neutral stance, stressing that Nairobi’s sole interest is to facilitate peace in Sudan.
“Kenya’s position is that the two generals are cut from the same cloth; they are a product of a government overthrown. What Kenya does not agree with is trying to think one is better than the other,” Ruto stated.
He added that the priority should be forcing the warring sides into a ceasefire while encouraging dialogue. According to the President, Kenya’s approach has already gained support from countries such as the United States, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
“We should deal with Sudan differently, and I am happy that the position Kenya has always put forward was actually accepted by the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt when they said there are no sides here,” he noted.
Kenya has faced criticism in recent months, with Sudan accusing Nairobi of favouring the RSF. In May, Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Kenya of sponsoring the RSF by allowing them to host an event in Nairobi. In response, Khartoum imposed sanctions on Kenyan exports, straining bilateral trade.
However, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi dismissed those claims, arguing that hosting the RSF in Nairobi was part of Kenya’s wider peace-building efforts in the region.
As fighting continues in Sudan, Ruto insists that Kenya’s commitment remains the same—ending the war through peaceful dialogue.
