Mazahir Saleh: A Legal and Ethical Testimony That Embarrasses the CDCF

The Face of Truth
Ibrahim Shglawi

Last week, Al Jazeera Mubasher hosted Dr. Mazahir Saleh, Deputy Mayor of Iowa, USA, to comment on events in Sudan, especially in the Gezira State, where ongoing violations are committed by the Rapid Support Forces militia. The discussion focused on the risks of arming the Sudanese people, which could potentially lead the country into a civil war. This was the main theme of the episode, moderated by journalist Ahmed Taha, who is sometimes perceived by Sudanese audiences as imposing his own views, belittling his guests, and possibly leaning towards supporting the CDCF movement, making him appear less neutral.

All this remains a matter of debate, as media work is challenging and it is impossible to win everyone’s approval. However, neutrality remains important, as it is a fundamental value of professional ethics and a key to distinguished and responsible journalism. I believe the journalist made a good choice of guest and managed the conversation well. In any case, Mazahir Saleh’s statements sparked great admiration among viewers and stirred considerable debate among the public, quickly reaching social media platforms and the Sudanese public.

This response was influenced by many reasons, among them her image as an ordinary, patriotic Sudanese with no political party affiliation. She also sent a direct message to the Sudanese people, urging them to rise up to repel aggression and stand by the army. She described the defense of the homeland as vital and asserted that it is a national, moral duty incumbent on everyone without discrimination. With this clear stance, Mazahir emerges as one of those who believe in the importance of safeguarding the nation and confronting existential and regional threats.

Mazahir supported her view by stating that when they were granted American citizenship, they took a clear oath that obligates them to defend America if it is threatened, even as civilians. She explained that this is the national duty that everyone should uphold, as the army alone cannot cover the entire country to fend off aggression; hence, it seeks the support of the people. Yet, she stressed the importance of putting the matter up for discussion and regulating it under the law to ensure rights and organize the defense of the homeland.

Mazahir’s statements generated substantial controversy among Sudanese both inside and outside the country. Many praised her sincere national stance and wished that all Sudanese would adopt this approach, which is universally practiced in all countries. It is also essential to end the political exploitation of Sudanese support for their army, as this has led to negative outcomes and contributed to divisions within the national ranks.

Although the majority appear to support and back the actions of the Sudanese army, national consensus remains important as it is one of the effective ways to pressure the militia and lift political and media cover for them. Unfortunately, divisions exist within the national ranks, between those calling to fight the war to its conclusion and declare victory for Sudan and the army, and those advocating for its cessation without regard for the aggression, violations, or crimes—resembling, as a Sudanese proverb goes, the sentiment of “let bygones be bygones.”

The significance of Mazahir’s statements lies in her status as an accomplished Sudanese who has obtained American citizenship and risen to a decision-making position in her new homeland, serving as Deputy Mayor of Iowa. It is known that people in developing countries look up to America as the champion of democracy and human rights, adding weight to Mazahir’s testimony and rendering it embarrassing for those who have long exaggerated Sudanese stances on the war.

Thus, Mazahir Saleh’s testimony carries legal and ethical implications that embarrass the Coordinating Council of Civilian Forces (CDCF), known for its media and political support of the militia. Furthermore, Mazahir’s position is an embarrassment for regional and international organizations and for Americans themselves, who criticize the army for enlisting young Sudanese capable of bearing arms to defend their country and people against rebel forces backed by foreign mercenaries, as media sources reveal.

It seems that this led the United States to reconsider its stance on the rebellion. The day before yesterday, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller condemned, in a post on the “X” platform, the violations and crimes committed by the Rapid Support Forces militia in Sudan. He called for an immediate end to violence against civilians, demanded that the Rapid Support Forces be held accountable for their crimes, and emphasized the necessity of stopping these heinous attacks.

Accordingly, the face of truth appears clear and has both ethical and legal dimensions. This aligns us—along with the Sudanese people, Mazahir Saleh, and the United States—in the shared belief in the importance of defending the homeland and protecting it from any external threats. We support all efforts aimed at achieving peace, stability, and the restoration of security in Sudan so that people may live in safety and tranquility.

Wishing you health and well-being.

Shglawi55@gmail.com