Major Moments in Sudan’s History of Coups, Wars, and Instability

Sudan has a turbulent history marked by coups, civil wars, and conflict. Notable moments include President Nimeiri’s ousting in 1985, al-Bashir’s rise to power in 1989, and the Darfur conflict beginning in 2003, leading to widespread violence and international charges of genocide. The current struggle between the army and the RSF continues to create a severe humanitarian crisis.

Sudan, a nation with a population of 50 million, is currently engulfed in a two-year conflict between its army and a paramilitary force. The Sudanese Armed Forces recently announced their complete control over the Presidential Palace in Khartoum, marking a significant achievement in their ongoing struggle against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The country’s history has been shaped by numerous civil wars, military coups, and political unrest.

1. In 1985, President Jaafar Nimeiri, who had ruled since a coup in 1969, was ousted due to a popular uprising. A military commander subsequently assumed leadership, committing to elections within a year. In 1986, these elections paved the way for a three-year period of civilian governance.

2. In 1989, General Omar al-Bashir executed a coup, establishing a regime that endured for three decades, bolstered by Islamist military officers and politician Hassan al-Turabi. Despite initial alliances, Turabi eventually distanced himself from Bashir.

3. Notably, in 1996, as a response to U.S. pressure, Sudan expelled Osama bin Laden, who had resided there as a guest for five years. This was followed by a U.S. missile strike on the El Shifa medicine factory in 1998, which was alleged to be linked to chemical weapons production and was partially owned by Bin Laden.

4. A major conflict erupted in 2003 in the Darfur region, where government forces, backed by a militia known as the Janjaweed, clashed with rebel groups. The violence resulted in the deaths of approximately 300,000 people and the displacement of millions, with aftermath tensions persisting despite a peace agreement in 2020. Bashir was later charged with genocide by the International Criminal Court for his role in the atrocities in Darfur.

5. In 2005, after two decades of ongoing civil war that claimed 2 million lives, a peace agreement was reached between the northern government and southern rebels, which ultimately led to South Sudan’s independence in 2011.

6. The year 2019 saw Bashir’s removal following a widespread uprising, leading to escalating tensions between military factions and civilian authorities during the period of democratic transition.

7. On April 15, 2023, following military protests, armed conflict erupted between General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s army and the RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, who serves as Burhan’s deputy.

8. By 2024, the ongoing conflict resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, with famine affecting five regions and the threat of expanding to an additional ten regions.

The historical context of Sudan is characterized by a series of coups, wars, and significant humanitarian crises. Understanding these events highlights the complex political landscape of the nation, which continues to struggle under the weight of its tumultuous past. The ongoing conflict between the SAF and RSF epitomizes the persistent instability, exacerbating humanitarian issues for millions.

Original Source: www.straitstimes.com