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Sudanese army's successive defeats fuel calls to oust Al-Burhan

Sudan army officers patrolling the streets.

By Gelle Dheere | Wednesday, December 20, 2023

The Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) suffered a significant blow, conceding the country's second-largest city, Wad Madani, to their rivals, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) suffered a significant blow, conceding the country's second-largest city, Wad Madani, to their rivals, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). On Monday, SAF hastily withdrew from Wad Madani, a crucial refuge and humanitarian hub, allowing the RSF to take over Al-Jazira's capital without resistance.

This sudden withdrawal, marked by the absence of any Sudanese military resistance, has left citizens deeply unsettled, casting doubt on the government's ability to protect them. Although the army released a rare statement acknowledging a hasty withdrawal and promising an investigation, supporters demand accountability.

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The spotlight has shifted to Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, with many within the army questioning his war strategy and calling for a change of leadership. Since the RSF seized Wad Madani, army supporters have taken to social media, urging generals to replace Al-Burhan. This sentiment is widely shared among civilians, who fear potential RSF attacks on their towns.

Yousif Ibrahim expresses, "All citizens want the removal of Al-Burhan, holding him responsible for the fall of cities and provinces to the RSF. I still don’t understand why the army abandoned Wad Madani, a refuge for many displaced people from Khartoum."

While a majority of military generals view Al-Burhan as a weak leader, there is no consensus on a replacement. Moreover, removing him poses a risk of internal division and weakening the crucial chain of command necessary for the successful prosecution of the war against the RSF.