General al-Burhan’s Port Sudan-based junta has drawn criticism for including alleged war criminals in its cabinet, a move seen by analysts as an effort to entrench military power and stifle pro-democracy movements.
Incoming Prime Minister Kamil Idris, set to be sworn in Thursday, reportedly plans to appoint Abu Aqla Kikil, leader of the Sudan Shield Forces militia, and another unnamed militia leader tied to the Baraa bin Malik group.
Kikil’s forces have been accused by Human Rights Watch of executing 26 people, including children, in Kombo Tayba in Gezira state.
Observers warn the appointments could escalate repression of activists calling for an end to the civil war and a return to civilian rule.
The move comes after Port Sudan junta forces launched a crackdown on protesters and journalists, with reports of widespread arrests and targeted killings.
Some Sudanese analysts say these appointments challenge the Biden administration following recent U.S. sanctions over Sudanese military use of chemical weapons. They also suggest army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan is aiming to “civilianize” military-aligned groups and tighten control.
Since Idris’ appointment on May 18, Sudanese political figures have called the junta a “war government” and a direct threat to Sudan’s democratic aspirations.
