Civilian forces must unite to save Sudan from disaster

Sudan has experienced a tumultuous political landscape since the overthrow of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir in April 2019. This shift to democracy was short-lived, interrupted by a military coup in October 2021 led by generals Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan and Hamdan Daglo. Following the coup, tensions grew between the two military leaders, fueled by personal ambitions and struggles for power. By April 2023, their conflict erupted into open warfare, wreaking havoc across the country. Initially centered in the capital, Khartoum, the violence quickly spilled into other regions, notably Darfur. This escalation has drawn significant global concern due to the horrific toll on civilian life. Reports indicate that tens of thousands have perished, exacerbated by atrocities committed especially against non-Arab populations in Darfur by forces aligned with the Rapid Support Forces. International interest in the conflict has been dishearteningly low, overshadowed by competing geopolitical interests. Notably, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates are accused of supporting the military coup and have maintained a vested interest in the status quo, fearing a shift towards democracy might influence their own political landscapes. Their involvement indicates a broader pattern of counter-revolutionary efforts in the region, undermining the aspirations of those seeking democratic governance in Sudan. The situation remains dire, as humanitarian crises deepen due to the ongoing fighting. Civilians have become victims not only to the violence itself but also to the international community's inadequate response to their plight. While many hoped for a return to civil governance after the coup, the ensuing warfare has dimmed hopes, leading to questions about the future of Sudan and its people, as well as the effectiveness of international mechanisms in supporting a genuine democratic transition.