The Sudanese army has recaptured the presidential palace in Khartoum, indicating a potential turning point in the civil war, yet civilians face immense suffering due to violence and human rights violations. Gravedigger Abidin Durma emphasizes the daily toll of loss as he buries numerous casualties, reflecting the broader impact of the conflict on families and communities. Even potential military victories may fail to resolve the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
The civil war in Sudan has escalated, with the Sudanese army having recently recaptured the presidential palace in Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This move is pivotal, as Khartoum is the epicenter of the conflict that began two years ago, indicating a potential turning point for the Sudanese Armed Forces. Despite these developments, civilians continue to endure severe hardships, suffering immense loss and disruption as a result of the ongoing violence and human rights abuses.
In recent months, the Sudanese troops have successfully reclaimed several districts in northern and eastern Khartoum. A concerted offensive commenced a week ago, and soldiers were observed rallying in high spirits for the operation. Notably, the army advanced quickly, breaking through a crucial area held by the RSF and establishing connections with military headquarters to enhance their strategy.
The Republican Palace complex, a significant site within Sudan’s history, has witnessed fierce exchanges. On one occasion, the army reportedly destroyed an RSF convoy attempting to retreat, showcasing the intense struggle for control in the capital. The situation is further underscored by the presence of Abidin Durma, a gravedigger in Omdurman, who experiences the war’s toll firsthand as he prepares for daily burials of numerous casualties.
Mr. Durma, whose family has a historical connection to Sudan’s founding figures, manages a cemetery that reflects the massive scale of loss in this conflict. He highlights the tragic reality of his work, noting that they bury anywhere from 25 to 50 bodies daily, emphasizing the urgency in dealing with casualties resulting from ongoing artillery fire. In addition, numerous mass graves speak to the extent of the violence, with many lives lost to indiscriminate shelling.
The emotional and psychological impact on the local populace is profound. Families are mourning as they deal with the aftermath of loss; for instance, Mr. Abazar Abdel Habib recently picked up the bodies of his relatives who were victims of shelling while taking their child to preschool. Survivors, including a young girl, have been left orphaned, indicative of the war’s effects on the next generation.
Communities are torn apart, and parents are filled with grief as they guide their children through this traumatic experience. Many locals express that their lives have been consumed by fear, with constant threats during shelling rendering daily activities impossible. They share harrowing experiences of seeking shelter to protect their families, indicating the pervasive terror of living amidst conflict.
Even if the army successfully takes full control of Khartoum, the underlying violence and systemic issues driving the conflict are still prevalent throughout Sudan. The scars left by the war will persist for years, impacting future generations and perpetuating a cycle of trauma throughout the nation.
In summary, the civil war in Sudan has seen significant military developments, with the Sudanese army recapturing key locations in Khartoum. However, the human cost remains devastating, as illustrated by the experiences of locals such as Mr. Durma and Mr. Abdel Habib, who highlight the daily struggle to cope with loss and trauma. While a potential military victory may alter dynamics in the capital, the broader conflict continues to inflict deep emotional and societal wounds on the people of Sudan, suggesting that recovery from this crisis will require extensive efforts and time.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
