The Port Sudan junta’s significant amendments in early February to the 2019 Constitutional Document, granting General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan expanded powers that strengthen his influence over the country’s affairs during the transitional period, are seen by many as a consolidation of military rule and a direct challenge to the aspirations for a civilian-led government.
The amendments establish a transitional period lasting 39 months, beginning from the adoption of the revised document. During this time, al-Burhan is granted sweeping powers under the pretext of “securing the country and ending the war,” including the authority to appoint and dismiss the prime minister, which further consolidates his control over the executive branch.
Additionally, the number of members in the Sovereign Council has been increased to nine, with six appointed by al-Burhan and three representing the signatories of the Juba Peace Agreement.
Exclusion of Forces for Freedom and Change and Rapid Support Forces
One of the most significant amendments was the exclusion of the Forces for Freedom and Change alliance and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) from the revised constitutional document.
These groups are being replaced by pro-SAF forces and Islamic Movement (Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood) militias paving the way for their inclusion in the upcoming government that al-Burhan is expected to form.
Legal and Political Controversy Over the Amendments
The amendments have sparked intense legal and political controversy. Many view them as entrenching military dominance over the government and circumventing the original constitutional framework.
Legal expert Nabil Adib pointed out that the amendments require the approval of a two-thirds majority of the legislative council, which has yet to be formed, raising concerns about the legitimacy of these changes.
A Sharp Contrast to the Tasees Charter
The recent amendments by al-Burhan’s junta contrast sharply with the signing of the founding Tasees Charter in Kenya’s Nairobi by RSF and 23 allied entities on Saturday.
The Tasees Charter also directly nullifies General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s constitutional amendments by reaffirming a commitment to a civilian-led government and democratic transition.
While al-Burhan’s amendments grant him sweeping powers, including control over the appointment of the prime minister and the expansion of military influence, the Tasees Charter sets out a framework that aims to limit military dominance.
By emphasizing civilian participation and inclusive governance, the charter effectively rejects the legitimacy of al-Burhan’s actions, rendering his amendments void in the context of the broader push for a democratic transition that the charter champions.
The ‘Tasees’ Charter was signed by various prominent figures, including the leader of the National Umma Party, Fadlallah Burma Nasser, RSF commander Abdul Rahim Dagalo, and Deputy Chairman of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, Joseph Toka.
It aims to pave the way for a more inclusive, civilian-led government and is intended to reduce military control and establish a transitional period led by civilian forces.
However, the constitutional revisions under al-Burhan’s leadership undermine this vision, as they grant him sweeping powers and marginalize key civilian and opposition factions, including the RSF itself.
While the Tasees Charter aimed for civilian participation and a democratic transition, the new constitutional amendments reinforce the al-Burhan’s hold on power.
This shift not only complicates the political landscape but also raises questions about the future of Sudan’s democratic aspirations. As al-Burhan consolidates authority, the likelihood of achieving the civilian-led governance envisioned by the Nairobi agreement becomes increasingly uncertain.
These recent amendments to Sudan’s Constitutional Document signal a fundamental shift in the political landscape, with enhanced powers for the Chairman of the Sovereign Council and the exclusion of key political forces.
The pressing question remains how these changes will impact the country’s democratic future and stability.
