Fierce battles in Omdurman a city across the Nile from Sudan’s capital
Photo by Abdulaziz Mohammed on Unsplash
Fierce battles have broken out in Omdurman, a city across the Nile from Sudan’s capital, Khartoum. This is the latest escalation of the civil unrest that has been plaguing the country since the military coup in October last year. The coup ousted the civilian-led transitional government that was formed after the popular uprising that toppled the longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019.
Restoration of democracy
The protesters, who demand the restoration of democracy and civilian rule, have faced brutal repression from the security forces, who have used live ammunition, tear gas, and batons to disperse them. According to human rights groups, more than 200 people have been killed and thousands injured since the coup. The internet and mobile services have also been frequently disrupted, making it difficult for activists and journalists to report on the situation.
Clashes in Omdurman
The clashes in Omdurman started on Monday when thousands of protesters marched towards the parliament building, which is located on the island of Tuti between Khartoum and Omdurman. The security forces blocked the bridges connecting the island to both cities and opened fire on the demonstrators. The protesters responded by throwing stones and Molotov cocktails and setting fire to tires and barricades. The violence continued throughout the night and into Tuesday, as both sides exchanged gunfire and artillery shells.
Power and Legitimacy in Sudan
The situation in Omdurman is emblematic of the wider struggle for power and legitimacy in Sudan, which has been mired in political and economic crises for decades. The country is divided along ethnic, regional, and ideological lines, and faces multiple armed conflicts in its peripheries. The coup has also strained Sudan’s relations with its neighbors and international partners, who have condemned the military takeover and suspended aid and cooperation.
The Future of Sudan
The future of Sudan remains uncertain, as the military junta shows no sign of relenting or engaging in dialogue with the opposition forces. The protesters, meanwhile, have vowed to continue their resistance until their demands are met. As the battles rage on in Omdurman and other parts of the country, many Sudanese fear that their hopes for a peaceful and democratic transition are slipping away.
