General Abdel Fattah al Burhan has launched a major restructuring that seems to revive the influence of the Muslim Brotherhood within its ranks.
In early April, Burhan appointed Lieutenant General Yasser al-Atta as Chief of Staff, sparking debate over the political impact of the move.
Following the criticism, Burhan reversed his decision, but the influence of the Muslim Brotherhood still runs through the SAF’s ranks.
Some analysts say the changes aim to strengthen a war-weary military, while others warn they boost Islamist networks within state institutions.
A study by the Center for Policy Progress links the retirement of several officers to ideological ties dating back to Omar al-Bashir’s rule.
The overhaul covers operations, intelligence, and logistics, suggesting a broad power shift rather than routine administrative updates.
Observers note the changes consolidate authority within a tight military circle amid ongoing conflict and rising regional sensitivities.
Western experts point out that armies in prolonged wars often reshape leadership to secure both political influence and battlefield control.
Researcher Alex de Waal adds that violence and institutional shifts are frequently used to realign power, benefiting leaders during conflicts.
Ties between Burhan’s army elements and regional actors, including Iran, are drawing concern, given the country’s strategic position on the Red Sea.
The Washington Institute for Near East Policy warns that Sudan’s shifting military leadership could heighten regional tensions.
Retired officer Jamal al-Din Hussein says Islamists dominate intelligence and security services, while militias fighting alongside the army hold official military credentials.
Taken together, the restructuring appears less about reform and more about political repositioning, consolidating control over the army and allied security forces.
Experts conclude the changes reflect an internal power struggle, designed to preserve influential factions as Sudan’s political future remains uncertain.
