New Sudan army-paramilitary clashes erupt near capital Khartoum

Heavy fighting erupted on Tuesday between Sudan’s army and rival paramilitary forces in Omdurman, a city located across the Nile from the capital, Khartoum. The clashes have been described by the military as a continuation of the ongoing political crisis in Sudan, which has been rocked by protests and violence since the ousting of former President Omar al-Bashir in April.

According to reports, the fighting broke out between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in the Al-Sabah area of Omdurman. Both sides have been exchanging heavy gunfire and artillery, causing panic among residents and disruption to daily life in the city.

The RSF, a paramilitary group consisting of mostly former Janjaweed fighters who were previously accused of carrying out atrocities in Darfur, has been involved in recent crackdowns on protesters in Khartoum. The group is reported to have close ties to the Transitional Military Council (TMC), the ruling body currently in control of Sudan.

The clashes in Omdurman are seen as a clear indication of the growing tensions between the TMC and the opposition groups who are demanding a swift transfer to civilian rule. The Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA), a leading opposition group, has accused the TMC of attempting to derail the progress towards a peaceful transition and called for an immediate end to the violence.

While the military has yet to provide an official statement on the number of casualties, eyewitnesses have reported seeing several bodies and injured individuals being taken to nearby hospitals. The situation remains tense and volatile, with reports of heavy military presence and roadblocks in various parts of the city.

The violence has been condemned by the international community, with the United Nations (UN) expressing deep concern over the escalation of armed clashes in Sudan. In a statement, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from any provocations that could further fuel the conflict.

The African Union (AU) has also called for an immediate ceasefire and urged all parties to engage in dialogue in order to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis. The AU has been actively involved in mediation efforts and has repeatedly stressed the importance of a swift transfer to civilian rule in Sudan.

The ongoing clashes and the delay in the formation of a civilian-led government have sparked fear and uncertainty among the Sudanese people. Many are worried about the future of the country and the potential for a return to the repressive regime of al-Bashir.

However, amidst the chaos and violence, there is still hope for a peaceful and democratic transition in Sudan. The SPA and other opposition groups have shown resilience and determination in their calls for civilian rule, and their efforts are being supported by the international community.

The recent weeks have seen significant progress in the negotiations between the TMC and opposition groups, with both sides reaching a preliminary agreement on the structure of a transitional government. The next step is to finalize the details and form a sovereign council that will oversee the transition period.

It is crucial for all parties to put aside their differences and work towards a common goal – a peaceful and stable Sudan. The people of Sudan have suffered for far too long under a repressive regime, and they deserve to have a say in their future. It is time for all sides to put the interests of the country and its people above their own and work towards a brighter future for Sudan.

In the midst of the ongoing violence, it is important to remember that Sudan has a rich history and a resilient people who have the potential to overcome this challenging period. The world is watching, and it is up to the leaders of Sudan to make the right decisions and lead the country towards a peaceful and democratic future. Let us all hope and pray for an end to the violence and a new era of peace and stability in Sudan.