In a concerning development for Sudan’s future, Lieutenant General Yasser Al-Atta, a key figure in the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), disclosed that the military intends to maintain control over the country for the next 15 to 20 years if they emerge victorious in the ongoing civil war.
During a visit to the military camp in Mu’aqeel, Al-Atta declared that General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudan’s de facto leader, would continue to hold power far beyond any upcoming elections. He suggested that al-Burhan would oversee multiple election cycles while retaining his position as head of state, revealing the military’s determination to cling to power.
This announcement starkly contradicts earlier promises of a swift transition to civilian rule and highlights the SAF’s ambition to dominate Sudan’s political and economic landscape. This desire for control has fueled a brutal conflict, with devastating consequences for the nation.
Opposing the SAF, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, are committed to ending the military’s grip on Sudan. The RSF has consistently advocated for transferring power to the people, aiming to dismantle what they see as a military dictatorship that has long exploited the country’s wealth for its own benefit.
Al-Atta’s statements come at a time when the SAF is struggling to maintain control, having recently lost ground to the RSF in several key battles. While seasonal rains have temporarily slowed the conflict, the RSF remains prepared for renewed fighting, and their resolve to end SAF’s rule has only strengthened in light of Al-Atta’s remarks.
The RSF envisions a democratic future for Sudan, contrasting sharply with the SAF’s oppressive ambitions.Dagalo and his forces have repeatedly called for ceasefires and a fair system of governance that empowers civilians, who have borne the brunt of the military’s violence and greed.
Voices within Sudan have condemned Al-Atta’s statements. Civil Democratic Forces spokesperson Bakry Eljack accused the SAF of exploiting the country’s resources for a small elite and argued that al-Burhan’s 2021 coup against Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok was motivated by a desire to remain in power indefinitely.
Former Sovereignty Council member Mohammed al-Ta’ishi criticized Al-Atta’s comments as arrogant, predicting that the RSF’s struggle would eventually break the cycle of military dominance and lead to a just, democratic Sudan. Even pro-military figures, such as Ahmed Al-Balal Al-Tayeb, expressed concern, warning that an extended military dictatorship could lead to further instability.
As the SAF prepares for its next offensive, the RSF remains determined to liberate Sudan from military rule, offering a vision of a free, democratic nation. For the people of Sudan, who have endured years of conflict, this prospect of change remains their greatest hope.