Sudan, a country located in the northeastern part of Africa, is surrounded by numerous neighbors that have contributed to its historical and current dynamics. This article aims to shed light on the ongoing crisis in Sudan, as well as its historical context, the reasons behind it, and potential solutions.
The Crisis in Sudan and the Resignation of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok
Recently, the country of Sudan fell into further turmoil when the civilian Prime Minister, Abdalla Hamdok, resigned amidst ongoing anti-military protests. Hamdok had been removed from his position by the military in October 2021, then reinstated a few weeks later as part of a deal. However, pro-democracy groups in Sudan rejected this agreement with the military, calling for power to be handed over to an independent civilian authority.
Sudan’s History of Upheavals
Sudan’s political instability sets it apart, even on a continent with a number of politically volatile nations. Since gaining independence in 1956, Sudan has experienced six successful coups and ten attempts. Additionally, the country has largely been governed by an Arab elite, who have used their political power to exploit the nation’s resources at the expense of its people.
Kleptocracy and the Role of the Military
The ruling elite exercised their power through the military, acting under the guise of Islam, thus establishing a kleptocracy. A kleptocracy is a government marked by corruption, where leaders use their positions to steal wealth from their nation. This form of governance has resulted in wars and conflicts, leading to widespread suffering among ordinary Sudanese citizens.
Current Crisis and Aftermath
The chaos worsened after General Omar al-Bashir was removed from power in April 2019. Following this event, the Sovereignty Council, an 11-member body of military and civilian leaders, appointed Hamdok as Prime Minister. Despite some promising reforms and international recognition, the transition towards full democracy was halted by violent opposition from the military.
The Impact of Foreign Powers: Russia and China
The ongoing crisis is further complicated by the involvement of foreign powers. Russia, acting through a mercenary outfit called Wagner, supplied training and other resources to the Sudanese military, while also blocking international intervention efforts at the United Nations. On the other hand, China’s extensive investments in Sudan have provided additional support to the military, as the Asian nation favors stability over good governance.
Way Forward for Sudan
Currently, the military in Sudan finds itself in a difficult position with broken civil-military relationships. What Sudan needs now is a stable, responsive government that can effectively address the numerous challenges it faces. The journey towards a successful democratic transition will likely involve complex compromises, including dealing with economic reforms and assets retained from the Bashir era. Ultimately, any lasting solution should involve preventing the military from acting as the country’s supreme authority, and ensuring that all Sudanese parties are included in the dialogue for peace.
