Sudan’s political and military crisis has reached a new turning point as two rival governments emerge, each claiming legitimacy. The Sudanese military, led by Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, has amended the 2019 Constitutional Document, consolidating power and extending the transition period by 39 months. Meanwhile, the Sudan Constituent Alliance, backed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied factions, has signed the Nairobi Transitional Constitution of 2025, establishing a parallel government in opposition to the Port Sudan-based administration.

Dueling Constitutional Visions

The military’s amendments reinforce its authority, reaffirming the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) as the sole national military while mandating the integration or disbandment of paramilitary groups. It also formalizes the Security and Defense Council, giving the armed forces broad executive powers.

In contrast, the Nairobi Transitional Constitution declares Sudan a secular, decentralized state, restructuring governance into eight regions with autonomous constitutions. It also abolishes the 2019 Constitutional Document, calls for a new national army composed of RSF and allied armed movements, and dissolves militias linked to the ousted National Congress Party (NCP) and the Islamic Movement.

The constitution sets out a two-phase transitional period:

1. A Pre-Transitional Founding Period, lasting until conflicts end.

2. A Transitional Founding Period of 10 years after hostilities cease.

Escalating Conflict and Military Showdown

As Sudan’s rival factions move toward institutionalizing their power, violent clashes have escalated in Khartoum, Omdurman, and El-Fasher. The RSF, already in control of key regions, has launched new offensives, targeting government positions and infrastructure. Reports indicate mass displacement, assassinations, and rising civilian casualties.

What’s Next?

This deepening fragmentation challenges the international community, which now faces a Sudan divided between two competing governments. Regional and global powers must decide whether to recognize the Nairobi-based administration or continue backing the military-led Port Sudan government. The outcome will shape Sudan’s future—whether it descends into prolonged war or finds a pathway to negotiated governance.