In this podcast, we delve into the recent intense clashes between Sudan's military and its main paramilitary force, which have resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and the displacement of thousands. The conflict threatens to destabilize the region and plunge the country into a full-blown civil war.

We begin by examining the root causes of the power struggle between the two main factions of the military regime. The Sudanese armed forces are broadly loyal to Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, while the paramilitaries of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) follow Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti. The power struggle has its roots in the years before the 2019 uprising that ousted the former dictator Omar al-Bashir, who deliberately set formidable security forces against each other.

We then explore how efforts to transition to a democratic civilian-led government faltered after Bashir's fall, and how this has contributed to the current conflict. Diplomats in Khartoum had warned of an eventual showdown as tensions had risen further in the weeks leading up to the outbreak of violence.

Throughout the episode, we provide context for the complex political and social dynamics in Sudan that have led to this point. We also discuss the implications of the conflict for the wider region and the challenges that lie ahead in resolving the crisis. Join us as we unpack the causes and consequences of Sudan's growing civil war.