In a troubling development for Sudan’s future, Lieutenant General Yasser Al-Atta, a senior figure in the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), revealed the military’s plan to extend its grip on the nation for at least 15 to 20 years, should they emerge victorious in the ongoing civil conflict.
During a visit to the military camp in Mu’aqeel, Al-Atta boldly asserted that al-Burhan would retain control over Sudan well beyond any elections, overseeing three to four election cycles while keeping the position of head of state.
The revelation exposes the SAF’s deeply entrenched desire to cling to power, contradicting any promises of a swift transition to civilian rule.
Al-Atta’s words highlight the military’s relentless ambition to dominate Sudan’s political and economic future, an ambition that has already triggered a devastating war.
However, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the primary resistance to SAF, stand firm in their commitment to dismantle this military dictatorship and restore power to the people.
The RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has consistently fought to end the stranglehold of military elites who have long exploited Sudan’s wealth for their own benefit, neglecting the needs of its people.
Al-Atta’s remarks came at a time when the SAF struggles to maintain control, having lost significant ground to the RSF in recent battles. Seasonal rains have temporarily slowed the fighting, giving the SAF time to regroup, but the RSF remains vigilant, preparing for the next phase of their campaign.
Al-Atta’s promise of a prolonged military dictatorship only strengthens the resolve of the RSF to bring an end to SAF’s tyranny.
The RSF’s vision for Sudan contrasts sharply with SAF’s militaristic and oppressive ambitions. Dagalo and his forces have repeatedly called for a ceasefire and the establishment of a fair and just system that empowers Sudanese civilians, who have been the true victims of SAF’s greed and violence.
The RSF insists that the time for military rule is over, and Sudan deserves a future where power is shared, not hoarded by generals with personal agendas.
Many within Sudan, including politicians and journalists, have condemned Al-Atta’s declaration.
Civil Democratic Forces spokesperson Bakry Eljack decried the SAF’s stubborn hold on power, accusing the military of using the country’s resources to benefit a small elite. Eljack emphasized that Al-Burhan’s coup against Abdalla Hamdok’s civilian government was motivated by a desire to remain in power indefinitely, something the RSF is determined to prevent.
Former Sovereignty Council member Mohammed al-Ta’ishi went further, calling Al-Atta’s statement an arrogant display of the military’s deep flaws. He predicts that the current war, led by the RSF, will break this cycle of military dominance and lay the foundation for a new Sudan, built on fairness and justice.
Even pro-military voices like Ahmed Al-Balal Al-Tayeb were alarmed by Al-Atta’s declaration. Despite his loyalty to the SAF, Al-Tayeb criticized the idea of an extended military dictatorship, fearing it would spark further instability and controversy.
As the SAF prepares for its next offensive, the RSF remains resolute in its mission to liberate Sudan from military rule. The people of Sudan have endured enough, and with the RSF at the forefront, the possibility of a free, democratic Sudan remains within reach.
