In the midst of a political storm and the haze of ongoing battles, a new type of conflict has emerged in Sudan, shifting from military clashes to a power struggle between the factions.
SAF chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan announced plans to form a government, which he described as either a “war government” or a “caretaker government,” aimed at completing the transitional period and assisting the SAF against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
In a speech on Saturday, al-Burhan outlined his vision during national political and social consultations aimed at reaching an agreement on a national project to end the war and lay the foundation for an inclusive dialogue within Sudan.
“The constitutional document has been amended since its original signing in 2019,” he explained, noting the changes that made it distinct from previous versions. “Once the constitutional document is approved, we will form a government and appoint a prime minister without interfering in his duties,” he added.
A Political Shift Amid Military Struggles
Political analyst Khalid Abdelaziz remarked that al-Burhan is laying the groundwork for the next phase, particularly as he expects the military to regain control of Khartoum soon. The formation of a government is seen as an attempt to build political alliances and prepare for negotiations to end the conflict.
However, Abdelaziz pointed out that while the SAF’s actions could pave the way for negotiations with the RSF, the real challenge remains ending the conflict entirely.
Tensions Surrounding Political Alliances
Political analyst Ahmed Khalil suggested that while al-Burhan’s statements aim to open political avenues, they may instead complicate the situation. The primary demand of Sudanese citizens remains stopping the war, addressing its aftermath, and returning home. Khalil warned that bypassing these critical concerns would exacerbate the political crisis and fuel the creation of parallel governments in RSF-controlled areas.
He further criticized al-Burhan’s concerns about the involvement of the former ruling National Congress Party (NCP) and the Islamist movement, which he claimed are fighting to regain political power. Khalil argued that these groups are fighting not for national interests but for political gains.
A Divided Sudanese Landscape
The political landscape remains fractured, with rival factions now preparing to establish their own governments in areas under their control. Analysts, including Alaa al-Din Babiker, have expressed concern that these developments will lead to further fragmentation and intensify military operations, as each faction attempts to solidify its legitimacy among its base.
Meanwhile, Sudanese journalist Osman Mirghani suggested that al-Burhan’s decision to pursue the formation of a government might be a strategy to prolong his hold on power. Since taking control in October 2021, al-Burhan has been criticized for maintaining authority in the absence of other state institutions, which has led to significant damage across the country.
International Pressure and Humanitarian Crisis
As the military standoff continues, the humanitarian situation has worsened. The UN reports that over 20,000 people have been killed and nearly 14 million displaced since fighting broke out in April 2023, with estimates from American universities putting the death toll closer to 130,000. Global calls to end the war are intensifying as millions face famine and life-threatening conditions due to the ongoing conflict.
The international community continues to push for a peaceful resolution, but Sudan’s deepening political and military divisions suggest that the path to peace remains uncertain.
