Sudan’s president launches re-election manoeuvres

Subject

Sudan political outlook.

Significance

In late February, President Omar al-Bashir launched a series of reshuffles within both his government and the security forces. While the changes came amid a national crisis -- and political crackdown -- related to Sudan’s economic near-collapse, it appears that the president is more focused on consolidating his power and preparing for re-election in 2020.

Impacts

• The government is unlikely to find quick or lasting solutions to Sudan’s deep economic difficulties.
• Khartoum will continue to favour a security-first response to the ongoing political crisis and popular unrest.
• Bashir will look to defuse international opposition to his re-election ambitions.