Sudan has a tumultuous history of wars, coups, and instability, marked by the ongoing conflict between the army and RSF. Major events include the coup in 1989 by Omar al-Bashir, the Darfur conflict starting in 2003, and the cessation of his regime in 2019. The country now faces severe humanitarian crises amid military clashes.
Sudan has been embroiled in turmoil marked by civil wars, military coups, and ongoing instability. Currently, the nation is witnessing a violent conflict between the Sudanese Army and the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This unrest has deep historical roots, with significant conflicts dating back several decades.
In 1985, President Jaafar Nimeiri was removed from power following a popular uprising after having staged a coup in 1969. A military leader subsequently assumed control, promising elections, which resulted in a period of civilian governance lasting three years.
In 1989, General Omar al-Bashir seized power through a coup, beginning a thirty-year regime bolstered by Islamist military officers and the support of prominent political figure Hassan al-Turabi. The relationship soured when Turabi eventually distanced himself from Bashir.
The United States pressured Sudan to expel Osama bin Laden in 1996, who had been residing in Sudan for five years. Consequently, in 1998, the U.S. targeted the El Shifa medicine factory in Khartoum, alleging it was linked to chemical weapons production, while Sudan maintained it only produced pharmaceuticals.
Violence erupted in Darfur in 2003, with rebels opposing government forces backed by the Janjaweed militia. This conflict led to the deaths of approximately 300,000 individuals and displaced millions, persisting despite a peace settlement reached in 2020. Bashir faced charges from the International Criminal Court for his role in the genocide.
The year 2005 marked a peace agreement between Sudan’s northern government and southern rebels, ending decades of civil conflict that had claimed around 2 million lives. This arrangement facilitated a referendum for southern independence, leading to the establishment of South Sudan in 2011.
Bashir’s regime ended in 2019 due to widespread protests, ushering in a period of political strife between military and civilian leaders regarding the move towards democracy. As of 2023, the fighting has escalated between General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s forces and the RSF, resulting in significant humanitarian crises and a spreading famine throughout the nation.
Sudan’s history is characterized by a persistent cycle of coups, conflicts, and humanitarian crises. The current warfare between the army and the RSF underscores the nation’s deep-seated instability and the challenges faced in transitioning to democratic governance. Understanding this historical context is vital for addressing the ongoing humanitarian and political issues within Sudan.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
