The 2021 Sudanese coup: a transition interrupted by military force

Wars & Conflicts · Published 16 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In October 2021, Sudan's fragile democratic transition was shattered when General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan seized control. What began as a plan for civilian handover devolved into a period of mass arrests, internet blackouts, and violent clashes between the military and millions of protestors.

General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's military forces seized power on 25 October 2021, disbanding the Sovereignty Council and arresting no fewer than five top officials. Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok was placed under house arrest, and a state of emergency was declared. While al-Burhan claimed his actions were necessary to prevent civil war and rectify the transition, the international community, including the African Union and the United States, initially refused to recognize the transfer of power, maintaining that the Hamdok cabinet remained the constitutional leadership.

The military's takeover followed a period of extreme tension. In September 2021, a coup attempt by individuals described as 'remnants of the former regime' had been thwarted, leading to the arrest of 40 officers. By October, pro-military protests had even reached the gates of the presidential palace. The military's subsequent actions included replacing various state officials and directors with members of the National Congress Party, the group that had held power under former president Omar al-Bashir.

Resistance to the coup was widespread and often met with lethal force. Protests, such as the 'Marches of the Millions' on 30 October, saw participation estimates ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions. During these demonstrations, security forces used live ammunition, tear gas, and even vehicles to disperse crowds, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. Although a 14-point deal was signed on 21 November 2021 to reinstate Hamdok, the agreement was rejected by major civilian groups like the Sudanese Professionals Association. Ultimately, the pressure of continued protests led to Hamdok's resignation on 2 January 2022.

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