What is Happening in Sudan and why is There a Political Conflict?

There is a power struggle between Sudan's two most powerful generals, Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, better known as “Hemedti”, who leads the powerful Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group.

The two generals conspired only 18 months ago to derail Sudan’s short-lived transition to democracy. Since fighting began on Saturday, both men have dug in despite mounting diplomatic pressure, saying they will not negotiate a truce, engaging in verbal attacks and demanding the other's surrender.

As the fighting escalated on Monday, Burhan ordered the RSF to be dissolved, branding it a “rebel” group. In turn, Hemedti called the army chief “a radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air”.

The fighting has resulted in civilian deaths nearing 100 and medics warning that the real toll is likely to be far higher. The RSF emerged from the infamous Janjaweed militiamen that Sudan's former dictator Omar al-Bashir unleashed against non-Arab ethnic minorities in the western Darfur region a decade earlier. The RSF has been accused of committing further atrocities at home, in particular, as part of a security crackdown after the ouster of Bashir. The RSF has also been involved in the conflict in neighboring Libya and nurtured ties with Russia’s Wagner Group.

How Can Sudan Stop Political Conflicts?

Stopping political conflicts in Sudan requires addressing the root causes of the conflict, which includes power struggles among competing factions and a lack of trust between the military and civilian leaders. To move forward, Sudan needs to prioritize democracy and the rule of law, as well as ensure that human rights are protected.

One important step is to create a more inclusive political process that allows for meaningful participation by all segments of society, including marginalized groups. This requires building strong and independent democratic institutions, such as an independent judiciary and a free press, that can hold leaders accountable and ensure fair representation.

Another important step is to address the underlying economic and social issues that fuel the conflict, such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality. Sudan needs to invest in sustainable development, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure, to provide opportunities for all its citizens.

There needs to be a concerted effort to address the grievances of all parties involved in the conflict, and to find a peaceful and inclusive solution that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders. This requires dialogue and negotiation, and a willingness on all sides to compromise and work towards a shared vision of a more stable and prosperous Sudan.

Why Does Sudan Need Peace Instead of a Political Coup?

Sudan needs peace instead of a political coup for several reasons. Firstly, political coups can be destabilizing and can lead to further conflict and violence, as different factions compete for power. This can exacerbate existing tensions and create new ones, leading to a cycle of instability that is difficult to break.

Secondly, a peaceful resolution to political conflicts is more likely to lead to sustainable change than a coup. When conflicts are resolved through peaceful means, there is a greater chance for compromise and for all parties to have their voices heard. This can lead to more inclusive decision-making processes and a stronger foundation for a stable, democratic government.

Thirdly, a coup can undermine the legitimacy of the government and the rule of law. When a government is overthrown by force, it can create a perception of lawlessness and chaos, which can be difficult to overcome. This can make it more difficult to attract investment and development, and can create a sense of uncertainty and insecurity among the population.

Sudan needs peace instead of a political coup because it is more likely to lead to sustainable change, inclusive decision-making, and a stronger foundation for a stable, democratic government.