The New Civilian Government: A Step Toward Legitimacy and the End of Military Rule in Port Sudan

In a significant political development, Sudan is moving toward the formation of a new civilian government, signaling widespread rejection of the military rule in Port Sudan, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. This civilian-led administration, backed by democratic forces, emerges in response to public demands for a return to civilian governance and an end to military control, which has exacerbated the country’s political and economic crises.

Delegitimizing Military Rule

Observers argue that the military government in Port Sudan lacks legitimacy, as it was established through a military coup that has not received broad popular or international recognition. Despite the army’s efforts to consolidate power, the formation of a new civilian government serves as a clear rejection of military rule and highlights its failure to govern effectively, particularly as the ongoing war continues to displace millions of Sudanese citizens.

Supporters of the civilian government stress that its legitimacy comes from the Sudanese people rather than external recognition, emphasizing that Burhan’s government does not represent Sudan but rather reflects the military’s continued grip on power and national resources.

Objectives of the New Civilian Government

The proposed transitional civilian government is expected to focus on key priorities, including:

• Ending the ongoing war through political initiatives aimed at achieving a comprehensive peace.

• Providing essential services to citizens suffering from deteriorating living conditions under military rule.

• Restoring constitutional rights that were stripped away after the military takeover.

• Curbing security violations and ensuring a safe environment for all Sudanese.

• Establishing balanced international relations based on freedom, democracy, and justice, rather than military interests.

Military Escalation Against the Civilian Government

With these developments, there are growing fears that the Sudanese army may escalate violence against the new civilian government, attempting to suppress efforts to restore democracy. Experts warn that the military could intensify airstrikes on areas under civilian administration, escalating an already dire humanitarian crisis.

Continued Arms Flow Through Port Sudan

Amid these tensions, multiple reports confirm that Port Sudan has become a major entry point for arms supplies to the Sudanese military, strengthening its ability to prolong the conflict rather than pursue peaceful solutions. This ongoing flow of weapons is fueling the war and worsening civilian suffering, as arms are not only used against military adversaries but also to entrench military rule and resist any political settlement.

Conclusion

The formation of a civilian government presents a critical opportunity to save Sudan from division and collapse, yet it faces immense challenges—chief among them, the military’s resistance to relinquishing power. With growing domestic and international pressure, the Sudanese people’s will remains the decisive factor in shaping the country’s future, whether toward democracy or continued military dominance in Port Sudan.