why the junta rehabilitates the islamists

Sudanese authorities come out of silence

The Sudanese pro-democracy movements are worried about a possible return to the old regime of the time of Omar el-Bashir. They note, since the military coup six months ago, a return of the great figures of the NCP, the party of the former president. And warn of a new blow to the democratic transition.

For the opposition, there is no doubt: the military junta is in the process of rehabilitating the cadres of the old regime. Opponents criticize the junta’s complacency towards the ex-president. Detained since his dismissal three years ago, Omar al-Bashir was recently transferred to a military hospital. And his lawyers are pleading for him to be placed under house arrest.

The opposition is also alarmed by the discreet return of civil servants from the old regime in their posts, particularly in the Ministries of Health and Justice.

Finally, it denounces the recent acquittal of thirteen figures of Omar el-Bashir’s party, including its number 1, Ibrahim Gandhour, who hastened to support the head of the junta and his coup.

General Burhan needs Islamists, supporters of Omar el-Bashir, explains a researcher. They have the experience of power and one year before the elections, they control several constituencies.

But above all, six months after the coup, the country still has no civilian government, explains another researcher. And General Burhan needs these Islamists to broaden his base, form a government including civilians, which will allow him to unblock international aid and go to elections.

rf-5-general