Rédaction Africa Links 24 with SudanTribune
Published on 2024-04-10 00:18:42
On March 9, 2024, in a significant Eid al-Fitr address to the nation, Sudanese army chief Lt Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan announced a decisive shift away from the past. He made it clear that the era before the conflict, which included both the rule of al-Bashir and the transitional government, is now behind them. Sudan is embarking on a new journey towards a different future.
Al-Burhan emphasized that the ongoing conflict, which started in April 2023, will be remembered as the “Battle of Dignity” and will lay the groundwork for a fresh start for Sudan. He delivered a powerful message, stating unequivocally that there is no going back to the times before April 15, 2023, October 25, 2021, or April 2019.
These words can be interpreted as a rejection of various possibilities, such as a return to al-Bashir’s Islamist regime due to the involvement of Islamists in the war against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the reinstatement of the pre-coup civilian transitional government, or the Political Framework Agreement aimed at integrating the RSF into the regular army, which sparked the current conflict.
The military leadership has consistently opposed the idea of handing back power to civilian forces. Al-Burhan, in particular, has refused to engage in discussions with the “Tagadum” coalition to end the war and its repercussions. He has also made it clear that the leadership of the RSF will not be reincorporated into power, with only individual fighters given the opportunity to join the army after surrendering their weapons and entering designated cantonment areas.
Al-Burhan expressed optimism about the progress of the war, attributing it to the unity between the army and the people. He declared that this moment is crucial – marking the battle for dignity and the homeland, and the beginning of a new chapter.
He praised the unwavering Sudanese people who have joined the Popular Resistance forces across the country to push back against aggression and rid Sudan of mercenaries and hired gunmen. The General promised steadfast dedication, vowing to follow the path of the martyrs until the last rebel and traitor is expelled from Sudan, and every rebellious area is cleansed.
He highlighted the continued public support for the army and paid tribute to the “martyrs of the Battle of Karama” who sacrificed themselves for the nation. Al-Burhan ended his address by reiterating his commitment to the march to defend the homeland.
Currently, the Sudanese army controls Omdurman and is engaged in combat with the RSF in Khartoum Bahri and Al-Jazirah State. Military leaders are insistent on the complete expulsion of the RSF and view negotiations solely as a means to secure their surrender.
In summary, Al-Burhan’s address marks a significant turning point in Sudan’s history, signaling a new direction and a resolve to move forward with determination and unity towards building a better future for the nation.
Read the original article on Sudan Tribune
