Sudan general praises Popular Resistance, dismisses Islamist alliance claims

Rédaction Africa Links 24 with SudanTribune
Published on 2024-04-02 01:45:41

Sudan’s Assistant Army Commander, Lieutenant General Yasir Al-Atta, addressed accusations of the army aligning with Islamists, emphasizing that the military welcomes anyone who fights alongside them against the “Janjaweed militia.” These remarks come after Deputy Commander-in-Chief Lieutenant General Shams al-Din Kabbashi warned against political manipulation of the popular resistance movement and announced a law regulating civilian participation alongside the military.

In a recent Ramadan iftar event in Omdurman, Al-Atta urged all actors, including military leaders, government officials, and political figures, to engage with the popular resistance and form committees to address shortcomings. He envisioned a structured popular resistance with some units collaborating with the army in military operations, while others work with the police on neighborhood security. Additionally, he proposed committees for humanitarian aid, citizen services, and protecting livelihoods.

The Popular Resistance groups emerged spontaneously after the RSF militia took over Al-Jazirah State in December 2023, with calls to arm civilians for self-defense against potential RSF violence and property theft. Al-Atta highlighted the influence of RSF and Forces for Freedom and Change (FFC) within various sectors of the government, stating that they remain embedded within the state apparatus.

Al-Atta declared the army’s independence and emphasized that anyone who fights alongside them is welcome, regardless of tribe or political affiliation. He praised the popular resistance for its discipline and contribution to the Omdurman liberation battles, revealing plans for future operations with additional battalions.

Furthermore, Al-Atta called for a discussion with General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the Sovereign Council, regarding the 2019 constitutional document signed with the FFC. He expressed his rejection of the document and called for the reinstatement of Sudan’s 2005 transitional constitution, with the removal of amendments made by the previous regime.

In conclusion, Al-Atta reaffirmed the army’s commitment to the popular resistance and its goal of overcoming challenges to achieve success. The unity and cooperation between the military and civilian groups are essential in advancing towards a more stable and secure Sudan. As the country continues to navigate through political complexities, the collaboration between different factions will be crucial in shaping Sudan’s future.

Read the original article on Sudan Tribune