Sudan’s army leader General Abdel Fattah al Burhan has appointed an acting prime minister according to a statement released by the sovereign council this week marking a significant development in the country’s ongoing efforts to restore governance amid deepening political unrest and economic collapse
The announcement comes as Sudan remains gripped by violent conflict between rival military factions with widespread displacement humanitarian crises and a collapsing economy the appointment of the acting prime minister is seen as a step toward reestablishing a civilian led government structure though details about the duration and scope of the appointment remain limited
The new acting prime minister identified as a seasoned technocrat with prior government experience has been tasked with coordinating basic government functions overseeing humanitarian relief and preparing the ground for eventual elections according to the statement released by the army led transitional authority
General Burhan said the move is necessary to prevent further institutional breakdown and ensure that the country retains some form of administrative continuity as international pressure mounts for a return to democratic rule he also called on regional actors and global partners to support Sudan’s stabilization process including through diplomatic engagement and economic assistance
Critics have questioned the legitimacy of the appointment given the military’s control over the political process and the lack of broad consultation with civilian groups many of whom remain in exile or underground following last year’s coup and the violent fallout that followed
Sudan’s economy continues to suffer from hyperinflation a collapsed banking system and mass unemployment while millions remain in need of urgent food medical and housing support international organizations have warned that the situation could deteriorate further without a credible and inclusive political solution
Diplomats from the African Union and United Nations have urged Sudanese leaders to return to dialogue and prioritize the formation of a civilian transitional government but so far peace talks have stalled and ceasefire agreements have repeatedly broken down
The appointment of the acting prime minister is expected to draw mixed reactions with some viewing it as a necessary stopgap measure and others warning that it risks entrenching military dominance over the state institutions and delaying the democratic transition
Burhan has stated that the military will withdraw from politics once national elections are held but no clear timeline has been provided leaving questions about the path forward for a country struggling to rebuild from years of dictatorship war and political instability
The coming weeks are likely to be critical as the new acting prime minister takes office amid competing pressures from armed groups civil society and the international community all of whom are watching closely for signs of real change
