What is happening in Sudan?
On 15th April 2023, fighting started between the Sudanese army and the country's paramilitary forces known as Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Several gunshots and explosions were heard in Sudan’s capital, Khartoum.
The RSF took control of the airport and is also claimed to have taken control of the Presidential Palace and the Army Chief General's residence. Many people were killed or injured due to the fighting.
What is the history behind this conflict?
In April 2019, people across Sudan started protesting against President Omar al-Bashir. He was removed, but the people continued protesting for a democratic government and fair elections.
Four months later, the military and protesters made a deal to form a council led by Army Chief General Burhan and RSF Chief General Dagalo. Abdalla Hamdok was named the temporary Prime Minister by the Council.
The Council planned to hold an election at the end of 2023. However, the military removed Hamdok in October 2021, and Burhan took over as leader of the country, with Dagalo as his second-in-command. But things changed, and Burhan and Dagalo began to have disagreements.
Why did relations between Burhan and Dagalo turn bad?
Army Chief General Burhan and RSF Chief General Dagalo disagreed on how to merge the RSF and the army. They couldn't agree on who should be in charge of this process. Dagalo wanted to wait for ten years, while Burhan wanted it completed within two years. This argument started fights between the Army and the RSF.
What can happen due to these fights?
The country's internet has been blocked, and there is a power outage. The country's economy has also been negatively affected. These fights can also make holding elections impossible, which can further harm the country.
The United States of America (USA), China, Russia, the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), etc., have asked both parties to stop fighting immediately. Let’s hope the RSF and the Army will stop fighting for the benefit of the people of Sudan.