“Sudanese army is highly professional and currently holds the upper hand over the RSF”

General Burhan recently engaged in diplomatic efforts by visiting South Sudan. As a political analyst, what interpretation can you provide regarding this visit?

This visit marks the second by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan since clashes erupted between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group in April. The visit is highly symbolic and serves as evidence that Sudan’s military leader, al-Burhan, is committed to restoring peace in Sudan. Furthermore, strengthening cooperation with neighboring South Sudan can facilitate the sharing of experiences and collaborative efforts on issues of mutual interest, ultimately fostering peace and stability in the sub region. For instance, discussions included the implementation of the peace agreement and the challenges related to the main pipeline transporting oil from South Sudan through Sudan for export, which has faced disruptions since the onset of the conflict.
It is also worth noting that since the beginning of the Sudanese crisis, South Sudan has maintained regular communication with both parties in an effort to mediate the fighting between the Sudanese government forces under General al-Burhan and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the commander of the RSF. In this context, Salva Kiir could serve as a valuable ally for the Sudanese military leader.

Do you think this visit will yield any positive results?

Yes, I believe that General al-Burhan’s visit will be fruitful. A sincere and meaningful dialogue, along with cooperation between the two nations, can help undermine the various rebel groups operating along the border of both countries.
It has been more than three years since the ongoing conflict began.

Has the current leadership failed to ensure the return of peace and stability?

Frankly speaking, the Sudanese army is highly professional and currently holds the upper hand over the RSF. Recent developments indicate that the army has successfully undermined the paramilitary forces and regained control of certain areas previously held by the rebels. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have been achieving successive victories and now control key crossings and bridges in the national capital. They have established ground control and fortified defenses in preparation for advancing deeper into RSF-held territories. This operation demonstrates the SAF’s capability to conduct a large-scale ground offensive under unified command and control. The SAF has seized the initiative, dictating the timing and location of operations, and has shifted to an offensive posture after wearing down the enemy.
Given these circumstances, it is reasonable to assert that, regardless of the time it may take, the SAF will ultimately defeat the RSF. However, it is crucial to organize an inclusive dialogue to integrate all conflicting groups into the peace-building process.

What efforts have been made so far?

Since the onset of the conflict, more than 14,000 people have lost their lives, and tens of thousands more have been injured. Such a crisis warrants the attention of the international community. All nations must unite to assist the Sudanese people in their quest for peace. Beyond military responses, General al-Burhan’s recent visit to South Sudan reflects a genuine desire to end this bloody conflict, which has devastated countless innocent lives.