An Islamist officers’ meeting in Omdurman discussed what is known as the “Quartet Initiative”, firmly rejecting it on the grounds that it represents a political and moral defeat for the military institution, and an attempt to impose external control over Sudan’s national decision making under the guise of settlements and international support, according to media.
Participants argued that accepting the initiative would effectively hand over the keys of national sovereignty to regional and international powers that view Sudan merely as a sphere of influence and interests, rather than an independent state with a free will.
Within this context, a heated debate took place over the role of Lieutenant General Shams al Din Kabashi. Several officers described him as a central figure in what they termed a conspiracy against the country, accusing him of direct coordination with the UAE and Saudi Arabia. They claimed he was behind the removal of officials who criticised the UAE within state institutions, including environmental secretary general Mona Ali.
The meeting said Kabashi’s threat goes beyond political manoeuvring, extending to alleged efforts to shield himself through tribal and familial networks. Officers accused him of working to form military forces loyal to him personally from among people of the Nuba Mountains, and of organising tribal and regional groupings based on the same constituency.
According to those present, Kabashi’s continued presence within the top leadership structure poses a serious danger to the country and the cohesion of the state. They said the most alarming aspect is the combination of personal ambition, external backing, and reliance on tribal loyalties.
One officer claimed they had monitored Kabashi’s movements in recent months, alleging he receives material and political support from the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and harbours clear political ambitions backed by promises that he could lead the country in the next phase.
The meeting further alleged that forces loyal to Kabashi from the Nuba Mountains now exceed 20,000 fighters, a development participants described as extremely dangerous for Sudan’s future and the unity of its military institutions.
