Hadi Idris Challenges Legitimacy of Port Sudan Government Amid Ongoing Conflict

Hadi Idris, leader of the Revolutionary Front and a key figure in the Coordination of Civil Democratic Forces (Tagadum), has announced a series of steps aimed at delegitimizing the military-led government in Port Sudan. Idris claims that this government, established after the destruction of Khartoum in mid-April 2023, is controlled by the Islamic Movement.

Idris emphasized that the Tagadum Coordination holds the legitimacy of the peaceful revolution and is qualified to speak on behalf of the Sudanese people. He stated, 'We have initiated procedures to delegitimize the Port Sudan government by informing diplomats about the risks it poses.' Idris plans to engage with international diplomats to pressure the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to return to the negotiating table in Jeddah.

Why this matters: The ongoing conflict in Sudan has significant implications for regional stability and global security. If the negotiations fail, it could lead to further violence, displacement, and humanitarian crises, affecting not only Sudan but also its neighboring countries.

The conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF began in mid-April 2023, leading to the relocation of the national government to Port Sudan. Idris argues that the current government in Port Sudan is illegitimate, stating, 'The existing government in Port Sudan is illegitimate, since the constitution, legitimacy, and government collapsed after the outbreak of the war.'

Idris has criticized the Islamic Movement's control over the Port Sudan government, highlighting their insistence on continuing the war and avoiding the Jeddah process. He addressed Malik Agar, Deputy Chairman of the Sovereign Council, saying, 'If you wanted the war to continue, you should have stayed in Khartoum.'

Despite Idris's efforts, the army has set conditions for resuming negotiations, demanding the withdrawal of the RSF from civilian homes. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called on Army Commander Abdel Fattah al-Burhan to resume negotiations, but Malik Agar has firmly stated that the government will not return to the Jeddah negotiating table.

The Tagadum Coordination plans to hold a round table with other Sudanese parties to discuss forming a government both inside and outside Sudan. Although there were reports that Tagadum intended to announce a parallel government during their founding conference in Addis Ababa, the proposal did not gain widespread support.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan has resulted in significant casualties and strategic consequences for the region. Sudan's history of authoritarian governments, civil wars, and military coups since its independence in 1956 has left the country deeply divided along various lines, including ethnic, religious, and tribal.

As Idris continues his efforts to delegitimize the Port Sudan government, the international community remains watchful. The outcome of these efforts and the potential resumption of negotiations in Jeddah could significantly impact the future of peace and stability in Sudan.

Key Takeaways

• Hadi Idris, leader of the Revolutionary Front, aims to delegitimize the military-led government in Port Sudan.
• Idris claims the government is controlled by the Islamic Movement and illegitimate since the constitution collapsed.
• The conflict between the army and Rapid Support Forces began in April 2023, leading to the relocation of the government.
• Idris plans to engage with international diplomats to pressure the army and RSF to return to negotiations in Jeddah.
• The outcome of these efforts could significantly impact peace and stability in Sudan and the region.