Sudan Army advances in Khartoum, plans new government

In a significant shift in Sudan’s prolonged conflict, the national army has gained crucial momentum in Khartoum, prompting military leadership to announce plans for a new technocratic government.

Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s forces have made strategic advances against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), particularly near the symbolic presidential palace along the Nile. This military progress has emboldened Burhan to propose a wartime administration, marking a dramatic departure from previous power-sharing arrangements, Reuters reported.

The army’s recent successes stem from enhanced air capabilities and strengthened ground forces, bolstered by allied militia support. Meanwhile, the RSF maintains control over western Sudan, particularly focusing on cementing its grip on the Darfur region through intensive operations in al-Fashir.

Military sources in Sudan have however revealed on Sunday February 9 that the formation of a new Government is contingent on the successful recapture of Khartoum from the paramilitary RSF.

The ongoing conflict, which erupted in April 2023 over force integration disputes, has created one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises. More than twelve million people have been displaced, with half the population facing acute food insecurity.

The proposed governmental changes would eliminate all constitutional references to civilian partnerships or RSF collaboration, consolidating power within the military establishment. Under this new structure, the army would appoint a technocratic prime minister responsible for forming a cabinet.

Burhan has extended an olive branch to members of the civilian Taqadum coalition, offering reconciliation contingent upon their disavowal of the RSF. However, prospects for a Ramadan ceasefire remain dim unless the RSF halts its Darfur campaign.