Khartoum – The Sudanese army's announcement of retaking a vital town in southeastern Blue Nile state from the RSF must be viewed through the lens of its potential impact on the already dire humanitarian situation facing Sudanese civilians. While the army touts a military success, progressive voices emphasize the need to scrutinize the consequences for the affected populations.

The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF has disproportionately impacted marginalized communities, exacerbating existing inequalities and vulnerabilities. Blue Nile state, with its diverse ethnic makeup and history of marginalization, is particularly vulnerable to the ravages of war.

The capture of the town, while strategically significant, raises concerns about potential displacement, increased violence, and further disruptions to essential services. The conflict has already displaced millions of Sudanese people, creating a massive humanitarian crisis that threatens to overwhelm local resources and international aid efforts.

The historical context of the conflict is crucial to understanding its roots. The RSF, with its origins in the Janjaweed militias responsible for atrocities in Darfur, represents a legacy of impunity and violence against marginalized communities. The Sudanese army, while formally the national military, has also been implicated in human rights abuses and the suppression of dissent.

The power struggle between General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo is ultimately a struggle for control over resources and political power, with ordinary Sudanese citizens bearing the brunt of the consequences. The conflict has exposed deep-seated inequalities and systemic injustices that must be addressed in any future peace process.

The international community has a responsibility to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those who need it most, and that accountability is pursued for war crimes and human rights abuses. A ceasefire is urgently needed to prevent further loss of life and to allow for the delivery of essential services to affected communities.

Moreover, any future political settlement must address the root causes of the conflict, including historical grievances, economic inequalities, and the lack of political representation for marginalized groups. The voices of civil society, women, and youth must be at the forefront of any peace process.

The recapture of the town in Blue Nile state should not be seen as a simple military victory, but rather as a reminder of the urgent need for a comprehensive and inclusive approach to peacebuilding in Sudan. The focus must be on protecting civilians, addressing the humanitarian crisis, and promoting justice and accountability.

The international community must also prioritize supporting grassroots peacebuilding initiatives and empowering local communities to resolve conflicts peacefully. Sustainable peace in Sudan will only be achieved through a bottom-up approach that addresses the needs and aspirations of all Sudanese people.

The fighting must stop. The violence is not the way, and civilians are suffering too much. The Sudanese people need peace to be able to rebuild their lives and their nation.