Sudan’s war reshapes loyalties as civilians see ‘no option’ but the army

Sudanese soldiers arrive at a market in Al Kalalah, south of Khartoum, on 27 March 2025, in an area retaken from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces as the army regains ground in the war. © AP

As Sudan’s war enters its fourth year, the army has retaken much of the country, shifting the balance on the ground. But the gains have also reshaped public opinion – with some Sudanese now backing the same military they once opposed, even as analysts warn the conflict remains deeply entrenched and a political resolution far off.

Much of the country, including the capital Khartoum, has been brought back under the control of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). Sudanese author and analyst Omar Digna tells RFI that many people are cautiously backing the army as the war shifts focus from political grievances to survival.