Name? Abdalla Hamdok
Westphalian identity? Sudanese
Age? 65
Why is he in the news? A few weeks ago, we noted, officials of the Sudanese government foiled a coup d’etat attempt in the capital, Khartoum. Earlier this morning, the transitional government, led by Hamdok, was dissolved in a successful coup d’etat. Other cabinet ministers were arrested by the military and Hamdok was moved to a secret location following the takeover of the country.
Why do we care? In 2019, Sudan began its transition to a civilian ruled government after the ousting of Omar al-Bashir. Though with Hamdok being ousted, the transition has taken a screeching halt and suggests the possibility of a potential return to military rule. Meanwhile, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the military leader behind this coup, also announced the removal of state governors, saying the elections will be held in July 2023.
Why should you care? Sudanese people have taken to the streets to express their concerns against the threat of military rule. Reports state that protesters are armed to their teeth, hinting that violence breaking out is practically inevitable and only a matter of time. Because of the impending danger to come in Sudan, you should care about 5/10.
Who else cares? Salve Kiir of South Sudan also is bound to be concerned about the recent coup as instability in Sudan may cause humanitarian spillover, threaten oil production, and hurt the recently opened trade between the two countries. Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed is definitely concerned about these developments as military leaders have been vocal against Abiy’s persistence in regards to the Grand Renaissance Dam.
Any further comments? The Chair of the African Union, Moussa Faki Mahamat has recently called for the release of Hamdok who were arrested during the coup. Further action by the African Union should also be on the lookout as a potential suspension of Sudan from the Union, as was done after the coup in 2019.
