Unveiling the Essence
In February 2025, Sudan’s Transitional Sovereign Council, under General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, enacted amendments to the 2019 Constitutional Declaration, markedly strengthening military authority over the nation’s governance. These changes reassigned critical powers—such as appointing state governors, ministers, and overseeing security and foreign policy—to the Sovereign Council, relegating the Council of Ministers to a secondary role. In May 2025, Kamil Idris was appointed Prime Minister, raising modest expectations for tackling Sudan’s dire humanitarian crisis, characterized by over 13 million displaced people and widespread famine threats. This article explores these constitutional shifts, their implications, and the potential role of Idris in addressing Sudan’s multifaceted challenges.
Sudan’s Saga Begins: A Continent’s Gaze on a Nation in Flux
Sudan has faced persistent instability since the 2019 removal of President Omar al-Bashir, a moment that initially promised a democratic transition. However, a military coup in October 2021 derailed this process, plunging the country into a civil war by April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This conflict has fueled a profound humanitarian crisis. The constitutional amendments of February 2025 have further entrenched military dominance, prompting concerns over democratic erosion. This analysis examines these developments and considers the appointment of Kamil Idris as Prime Minister within this complex context.
Reweaving the Tapestry: Constitutional Shifts in February 2025
The amendments introduced in February 2025 significantly altered Sudan’s transitional governance structure. Key modifications include:
- Appointment of State Governors: Previously managed by the Council of Ministers, this responsibility now rests with the Sovereign Council, bolstering military influence over regional governance.
- Appointment and Dismissal of Ministers: The Sovereign Council can now appoint and remove the Prime Minister and ministers at its discretion, weakening civilian oversight.
- Legislative Authority: Legislative powers are now shared between the Council of Ministers, the Sovereign Council, and the Transitional Legislative Authority, diluting civilian control.
- Foreign Policy Oversight: The Sovereign Council has taken charge of foreign policy, stripping this function from the Prime Minister.
- Security and Defense Responsibilities: Control over security and defense, including key appointments like the police director, now lies with the Sovereign Council.
- Military Representation: The Sovereign Council’s composition shifted, increasing military members from four to six out of eleven, securing a military majority.
- Dual Nationality Restriction: A new rule reportedly bars individuals with foreign citizenship from ministerial posts, potentially impacting the new Prime Minister’s tenure.
These changes coincided with the SAF regaining territory in Khartoum, reflecting a broader consolidation of military power amid ongoing conflict.
The Pulse of Power: Democracy’s Fading Echoes in Sudan
The 2019 Constitutional Declaration sought to pave the way for democracy through a power-sharing model involving the military, RSF, and civilian factions. The 2021 coup dismantled this framework, and the ensuing civil war deepened Sudan’s instability. The 2025 amendments mark a further departure from civilian-led governance, prioritizing military control over state functions. This shift raises questions about Sudan’s democratic prospects and the ability of civilian leaders to address pressing national issues.
Kamil Idris: A Son of the Soil in Turbulent Winds
On May 19, 2025, General al-Burhan appointed Kamil Idris as Prime Minister, marking the first such appointment since the 2021 coup. Born in 1954 in Omdurman, Idris brings a wealth of experience, including a doctorate in international law and a tenure as Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization from 1997 to 2008. Despite his credentials, the constitutional amendments curtail his authority, positioning him as an executor of policies dictated by the Sovereign Council. Additionally, the dual nationality clause has sparked speculation about his eligibility, given his extended time abroad, though no definitive evidence of foreign citizenship has emerged.
The Heartbeat of Suffering: Sudan’s Humanitarian Lament
Sudan’s civil war has precipitated a humanitarian catastrophe of unprecedented scale:
- Displacement: Over 13 million individuals are displaced, including 8.6 million within Sudan and millions more seeking refuge in neighboring countries.
- Food Insecurity: Millions face acute hunger, with famine conditions reported in several regions.
- Violence Against Civilians: Conflict-related sexual violence disproportionately affects women and girls.
- Aid Delivery Challenges: Security risks and bureaucratic hurdles severely limit humanitarian access, particularly in conflict zones.
The scale of this crisis demands urgent and coordinated action, yet the political restructuring complicates effective responses.
Idris’s Odyssey: Charting Hope Across a Fractured Land
Despite his constrained mandate, Idris’s appointment has sparked cautious optimism about his potential to mitigate Sudan’s humanitarian crisis:
- Facilitating Peace Talks: His diplomatic background could enable him to mediate between the SAF and RSF, paving the way for a ceasefire.
- Enhancing Humanitarian Access: Idris’s international experience may improve coordination with global aid organizations to deliver relief.
- Advocating for Civilian Rule: He might push for gradual steps toward restoring civilian governance, though this faces resistance from the military.
- Engaging in Inclusive Dialogue: There is hope that Idris will involve civil society in addressing the conflict’s underlying causes.
However, his success hinges on navigating a military-dominated system and securing cooperation from both domestic and international stakeholders.
Trials of a Titan: Sudan’s Path Through the Storm
Idris confronts formidable obstacles, including his limited authority, the ongoing war, and potential questions about his legitimacy due to the dual nationality rule. The humanitarian crisis persists amid ongoing violence and restricted access to aid, underscoring the need for a unified response. Regional and international actors continue to advocate for peace and support, but the military’s firm grip on power casts doubt on immediate progress.
Envisioning Resilience: A Pan-African Dream for Sudan’s Dawn The constitutional amendments of February 2025 have solidified military control in Sudan, sidelining civilian governance and complicating efforts to resolve the nation’s crises. Kamil Idris’s appointment as Prime Minister offers a faint hope for addressing the humanitarian emergency, yet his restricted powers and the volatile context present significant hurdles. Sustained international engagement and inclusive dialogue remain essential for Sudan’s path toward stability and recovery.
