Popular Resistance of Sudan | |
---|---|
Arabic: المقاومة الشعبية في السودان | |
Active | June 2023 |
Country | Sudan |
Allegiance | Sudanese Armed Forces |
Engagements | War in Sudan |
Website | SPR Website S.P.R Website |
Commanders | |
Head[note 1] | Azhari Al-Mubarak Muhammad |
PSC | Nazir Muhammad Al-Amin Turk |
Deputy PSC | Khader Al-Mubarak Ali |
Spokesperson | Ammar Hassan |
Notable commanders | Almusbah Abuzaid Emir Kafi Tayara Ahmed El Bushra |
The Popular Resistance (Arabic: المقاومة الشعبية Al-Muqawamat ash-Sha'abiyah), also known as the Popular mobilisation (Arabic: الاستنفار الشعبي), is a conglomerate of armed factions in Sudan that was formed in response to the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This conflict, rooted in a power struggle within the country's military structure, erupted into full-scale war on 15 April 2023.
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, leading the SAF, initiated the Popular Resistance to unite various political and social groups under the banner of "national dignity." Although lacking a formal arsenal, the resistance receives direct support and military training from the SAF. This mass mobilisation has seen the training of thousands of civilians across Sudan, prepared for combat to defend against the RSF's aggressive expansion and severe human rights violations. The RSF's control over northern regions, like Gezira state, which was marked by severe atrocities, prompted widespread civilian armament and participation in the resistance. This has included public figures and government officials who actively support civilian training and armament initiatives.
Despite its broad base and significant role in the conflict, the Popular Resistance faces challenges due to its lack of formal structure, Islamist leanings of some factions formed by ex-members of the Popular Defence Forces, and the potential for escalating violence and societal disturbances. The increasing proliferation of arms among civilians, coupled with the ethnic and regional dynamics of the conflict, raises concerns about the potential for a prolonged and fractious civil conflict in Sudan.
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