Eastern demands may complicate Sudan junta’s strategy

Significance

Burhan’s decision responds to renewed threats by the Council of Beja Nazirs (CBN) to blockade Port Sudan unless the eastern track of the Juba Peace Agreement (JPA) is annulled. This poses a problem for Burhan, whose other partners in government, the Sudan Revolutionary Front (SRF), oppose any deviation from the JPA.

Impacts

• Fears that Sudan’s ports will remain susceptible to stoppages will deter foreign investment and shipping into Sudan.
• SRF leader Yasir Arman’s return to the protest movement underscores the fragility of the SRF’s alliance with the coup leaders.
• The committee may drag out consideration of the eastern question, to avoid controversy while the coup leaders try to win wider support.