Sudan’s military has retaken the Republican Palace in Khartoum from rival paramilitary forces after nearly two years of conflict. This advance signifies a strategic gain for the military under Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan. The surrounding humanitarian crisis continues, with thousands dead and millions displaced since the war began. The RSF’s loss of this key site reflects ongoing instability in Sudan since a failed democratic transition in 2019.
Sudan’s military announced on Friday that it has successfully retaken the Republican Palace in Khartoum, significantly impacting ongoing conflict with rival paramilitary forces. This palace served as the government’s seat prior to the current war, which has persisted for nearly two years. Videos shared on social media displayed soldiers celebrating inside the compound, marking this event as the 21st day of Ramadan, confirming the military’s advance.
The Republican Palace, located along the Nile River, symbolizes both a strategic gain and a historic site for Sudan. Its recent capture represents a significant military achievement for army chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, effectively expelling the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) overseen by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo from Khartoum. Although sporadic gunfire was reported post-capture, it was unclear whether it stemmed from ongoing conflict or celebratory gunfire.
Despite the military’s regaining control, the RSF has yet to acknowledge the loss of the palace, and fighting is anticipated to continue as they retain control over other regions. Notably, the RSF claimed to have taken control of al-Maliha, a city in North Darfur, which is crucial due to its proximity to borders with Chad and Libya. The Sudanese military, however, has not confirmed any loss of territory in that area.
The ongoing war has resulted in a humanitarian disaster, with over 28,000 fatalities reported and millions displaced. Additionally, some families have resorted to consuming grass due to widespread famine in various regions. The Republican Palace’s historical significance dates back to British colonization and remains symbolically potent, housing crucial governmental offices.
Sudan has faced persistent instability since the ousting of former President Omar al-Bashir in 2019, followed by a failed democratic transition that culminated in a military coup led by Burhan and Dagalo in 2021. This conflict erupted in April 2023 between the military and RSF, with both groups accused of human rights abuses and violations of civilian safety, compounding the nation’s ongoing crisis.
The military’s recapture of the Republican Palace represents a major tactical victory against the RSF in Khartoum. This event underscores the ongoing chaos in Sudan, stemming from a failed transition to democracy and a violent power struggle between military factions. The humanitarian implications remain dire, with significant loss of life and massive displacement reported across the country. Continued international focus on human rights abuses is critical as the conflict unfolds.
Original Source: www.haltonhillstoday.ca
