Sudan’s descent: understanding Hemedti, the War, and a Cycle of Violence
For four decades, I’ve observed Sudan’s complex story unfold, witnessing firsthand the forces shaping its present crisis. The current conflict isn’t a simple power struggle; it’s a deeply rooted issue fueled by economic desperation, past grievances, and the rise of ruthless leaders like Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. This article will delve into who Hemedti is, how his forces have behaved during the war, and whether Sudan is destined for continued cycles of violence.
Who is Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti)?
hemedti represents a stark departure from conventional Sudanese political figures. He’s fundamentally a commercial operator, prioritizing personal and familial power over national rebuilding. Unlike those seeking to restore the pre-conflict state, his ambition appears to be establishing a dynastic rule. Essentially, he envisions running Sudan as a family business, backed by his private army and a network of affiliated companies.
The Conduct of hemedti’s Forces During the War
Hemedti presents himself as a champion of democracy, the marginalized, and those opposing Islamist factions. Though, his forces’ actions tell a very different story.
Their behavior throughout the conflict has been utterly atrocious, marked by widespread atrocities. Initially, Khartoum experienced rampant ransacking, pillaging, and terror, with residential neighborhoods subjected to looting and sexual violence.
Furthermore,a genocidal campaign unfolded in El Fasher,Darfur,directly aligning with longstanding goals of groups allied with Hemedti. This wasn’t a spontaneous escalation, but a calculated effort to achieve a horrific objective.
A Legacy of War: Is This Sudan’s Future?
Having spent years documenting Sudan’s struggles, a disturbing pattern emerges. These leaders, including Hemedti, are products of decades of conflict, and their experiences profoundly shape their actions.
Consider this: one of my earliest contacts in Darfur, a nomadic sheikh, lamented the loss of his tribe’s livelihood. He explained that the famine wasn’t just about hunger, but the end of a way of life.
Remarkably, his son later became the leader of the Janjaweed, a notorious militia. Then, Musa Hilal, the Janjaweed’s original head, was displaced by Hemedti, who deemed him insufficiently ruthless.
This illustrates how pressures, trauma, and conflict over the past 40 years have cultivated a merciless political culture. You can trace a direct line from economic hardship and desperation to the brutal realities of today’s Sudan.
Understanding the Root causes
the current crisis isn’t isolated. It’s a culmination of systemic issues:
* Economic Marginalization: Decades of poverty and dwindling resources have fueled resentment and instability.
* Historical Grievances: Long-standing tensions between different ethnic and tribal groups continue to erupt.
* The Rise of Militias: The proliferation of armed groups,like the Janjaweed,has normalized violence and impunity.
* Power Vacuum: The instability following the 2019 revolution created an opportunity for ambitious individuals like hemedti to seize control.
What Does This Mean for You and the Future of sudan?
If you’re following the situation in Sudan,it’s crucial to understand that a swift resolution is unlikely.The deep-seated issues driving the conflict require a thorough approach addressing economic inequality, promoting reconciliation, and establishing accountable governance.
Without these fundamental changes, Sudan risks remaining trapped in a cycle of violence, with each generation shaped by the traumas of war.The international community must prioritize diplomatic efforts, humanitarian aid, and support for a genuine transition to a civilian-led government.
Ultimately, the future of Sudan hinges on breaking this cycle and building a society where peace, justice, and opportunity prevail.
Disclaimer: I have been reporting on Sudan for 40 years, and this analysis reflects my observations and understanding of the situation. The situation is constantly evolving, and this facts is current as of today’s date.
