The Turbulent History of Coups and Conflict in Sudan

Sudan, embroiled in a conflict between the army and RSF, has a tumultuous history marked by military coups, civil wars, and humanitarian crises. Key events include the ousting of dictators, U.S. interventions, and the Darfur tragedy, highlighting a continued struggle for stability and peace in the country.

Sudan has a tumultuous history marked by coups, wars, and political instability. Presently, the nation is engulfed in a two-year conflict involving the military and the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Recently, the Sudanese army reported it had seized control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum, marking a significant milestone in its struggle against the RSF.

Key historical events have shaped Sudan’s political landscape. In 1985, President Jaafar Nimeiri was removed following a popular uprising, giving way to a brief period of democracy through elections held in 1986. However, this was soon disrupted by Omar al-Bashir’s coup in 1989, which initiated a 30-year rule supported by Islamist factions until he was ousted in 2019 amid public protests.

Throughout the years, Sudan has also faced international scrutiny. In 1996, under U.S. pressure, the government expelled Osama bin Laden from Sudan after five years in the country. By 1998, a U.S. missile strike targeted a pharmaceutical factory in Khartoum, linked to allegations of chemical weapons production.

The 2003 Darfur conflict, involving government forces and the Janjaweed militia, resulted in massive human suffering, with around 300,000 deaths and millions displaced. The international community charged Bashir with genocide due to his role in these atrocities. In 2005, peace was negotiated, eventually leading to South Sudan’s independence in 2011 after the longest-running civil war in Africa.

The latest turmoil erupted in 2023, following escalated protests against military authority. Fighting between General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s army and RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian conditions. By 2024, this ongoing conflict threatens famine across multiple regions of Sudan, impacting millions.

Sudan’s history is characterized by cycles of coup and conflict, culminating in a current humanitarian crisis intensified by ongoing warfare between military factions. Despite earlier attempts at peace and democratic governance, instability persists, significantly affecting the nation’s populace. The conflict’s ramifications underscore the urgent need for international attention and intervention.

Original Source: www.straitstimes.com