Sudan’s Military Regains Control of Presidential Palace in Khartoum
Sudan’s military has regained control of the Khartoum presidential palace from paramilitary RSF forces, marking a significant advance in their ongoing conflict. The palace’s reclaim underscores the military’s efforts against the RSF, as the humanitarian crisis intensifies with numerous casualties reported. Political instability has ensued since the uprising against long-time President Omar al-Bashir and subsequent military conflicts.
The Sudanese military announced on Friday that it has reclaimed complete control of the presidential palace, located in Khartoum, from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking a pivotal moment in a protracted conflict that has lasted nearly two years and threatens the nation’s stability. This reclaiming of the Republican Palace signifies an important advance for the military in their ongoing struggle against rival forces within the capital.
The military showcased its presence inside the palace through social media videos, with troops reporting the date as the 21st day of Ramadan. Visual evidence depicted soldiers standing within the compound, amidst damaged structures and debris, highlighting the destructive impact of the ongoing conflict. These soldiers communicated their triumph through chants of “God is the greatest!”.
The Republican Palace, which holds historical significance as a former seat of government and a symbol represented on banknotes and postage stamps, is now firmly under the control of army chief General Abdel-Fattah Burhan. This achievement signifies that the RSF, led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, has been ousted from the capital amidst the ongoing hostilities that began in April 2023.
Despite this territorial setback, the RSF has yet to officially confirm the loss and continues to maintain control in other parts of Sudan. Additionally, the humanitarian implications of the conflict loom large, pushing the nation into a severe crisis characterized by widespread violence and displacement. More than 28,000 individuals have lost their lives due to the fighting, with millions forced to seek refuge and some resorting to desperate measures for survival, including foraging for food.
The Republican Palace has a long history, serving as the power center during Sudan’s colonial period and seeing significant historical events occur after gaining independence in 1956. The palace has been a target for the military’s artillery throughout the conflict, signifying a strategic objective for the nation’s forces. Following the overthrow of long-standing President Omar al-Bashir in 2019 and subsequent political instability, the military coup in 2021 led to escalating tensions between the military and RSF, which ultimately spiraled into violent confrontation this year.
Since the onset of fighting, the military has made significant advances, including recapturing vital infrastructure and pushing towards RSF strongholds within Khartoum. Civilian casualties have regrettably risen due to the intense fighting, further compounding the humanitarian crisis. The RSF continues to face accusations of committing human rights violations alongside the military, as international observers and organizations call for accountability in light of the reported atrocities that have occurred since the war’s commencement. Both factions maintain their denial of such allegations.
The Sudanese military’s recent reclaiming of the Khartoum presidential palace from the RSF marks a significant turn in a conflict that has inflicted devastating consequences on the country. Although the military’s control of the palace symbolizes a tactical victory, the ongoing humanitarian crisis remains dire, with extensive loss of life and displacement of millions. The situation reflects a complex struggle for power, which is rooted in historical grievances and compounded by allegations of human rights violations from both opposing forces. Together, these developments underscore the precarious state of Sudan as it battles through ongoing conflict and instability.
Original Source: www.france24.com
