Kenyan authorities have arrested Sudanese opposition leader Yassir Arman upon his arrival in Nairobi, acting on an Interpol warrant requested by Sudan’s government.
Arman, a prominent figure in the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement – Revolutionary Democratic Current (SPLM-RDC), was detained at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where he was informed of the arrest warrant against him.
He had traveled to Nairobi for consultations with Western diplomats regarding Sudan’s ongoing crisis before being placed under detention at a local hotel while authorities reviewed whether the charges against him were criminal or politically motivated.
His arrest comes amid intensified efforts by Sudan’s ruling military authorities to crack down on opposition leaders, particularly those affiliated with the Coordination of Civilian Democratic Forces, known as Tagadum.
Last year, Sudan’s Attorney General Al-Fateh Tayfour announced plans to pursue key Tagadum figures, accusing them of collaborating with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan’s ongoing conflict.
Among those targeted are former Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok and several other leaders of the anti-war civilian coalition.
The Sudan Tribune has reported that it obtained a letter from the Sudanese Public Prosecution requesting Arman’s extradition.
The letter accuses him of violating Sudanese law and international humanitarian law.
However, his supporters argue that the charges are politically motivated and aimed at suppressing dissent.
The arrest also takes place against the backdrop of growing concerns from the United States regarding RSF activities in Nairobi.
Recently, the RSF and its allies signed a transitional constitution aimed at forming a parallel government in areas under their control.
Kenya’s role in Sudan’s ongoing political turmoil has come under increased scrutiny, particularly due to its engagements with RSF leader Mohamad Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti.
Nairobi has been criticized for hosting Hemedti and allowing RSF-aligned figures to conduct political activities within its borders.
The decision on whether to extradite Arman now places Kenya in a delicate position
