Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and allies have signed a charter that paved the way for the establishment of a parallel government, as Sudan's army made advances recently against the rival groups.

Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces have signed a charter paving the way for a parallel government with its allies, including a former foe who analysts say could offer crucial territory, fighters and border access.

The Rapid Support Forces said it was paving the way to an end to the civil war. Critics called it an audacious gambit by a group that the United States has accused of genocide.