Sudan’s Uprising: New Testimony Reveals Shocking Details of Khartoum Massacre

A new testimony from a key figure in the Khartoum sit-in security committee is shedding light on the decisions made leading up to the violent dispersal of the protest at Sudan’s army headquarters. The account, given by Al-Tayeb Osman Yusuf, head of security for the protest camp, directly implicates the late Lieutenant General Bahar and other military leaders in the full responsibility for the brutal crackdown on protesters in June 2019.

The Breakdown of Trust: Accusations Against Military Leaders

Yusuf alleges that promises made by representatives of the Transitional Military Council (TMC) to protect the protesters were deliberately broken. He details how military movements were observed near the University of Khartoum data center and the Ministry of Health the day before the dispersal. Bahar initially assured Yusuf these forces were there for protection, a claim later proven false as they actively participated in the violent operation.

The testimony highlights a critical breach of agreement regarding the “Colombia” area, prompting a formal protest from the sit-in committee. Bahar’s justification of needing to act swiftly was rejected as the agreement stipulated a specific date and conditions explicitly prohibiting the use of violence. This breakdown in communication and adherence to agreed-upon protocols appears to be a central factor in the escalation of events.

Pre-Attack Warnings Ignored

Hours before the attack, Yusuf received reports from officials at the University of Khartoum and the Ministry of Health regarding the presence of troops near their institutions. Again, Bahar reportedly reiterated that these were protective forces, only for them to be revealed as part of the assault team. This pattern of deception raises serious questions about the intent and planning behind the operation.

The timing of the attack was also influenced by the Eid holiday, which resulted in fewer protesters and security personnel present at the sit-in. Preparations were underway for a football match between Al-Hilal and Al-Merrikh, and the committee had even requested fire trucks due to rainy weather and potential electrical hazards – a stark contrast to the violence that unfolded.

The Army’s Role: A Failure to Protect

Yusuf contends that the army’s primary role in the operation was a deliberate failure to protect the protesters. The closure of the army headquarters’ gates to those fleeing gunfire trapped them and made them vulnerable to attack. He asserts this decision was a direct consequence of the military committee led by Bahar.

The then-Governor of Khartoum, Mortada Waraq, maintained constant communication with Yusuf and resigned from his position and the army after witnessing the events of the dispersal. Police Director Khalid bin Al-Walid was also closely monitoring the situation.

A Complex Force: Rapid Support Forces and Shadow Groups

The forces involved in the operation were a mix of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and groups disguised as intelligence agents. Yusuf alleges some of these groups were linked to Islamist battalions associated with the former ruling National Congress Party. He notes the RSF lacked familiarity with the area, while other groups carried out targeted pursuits within and around the sit-in and neighboring districts.

The sealing of the army headquarters’ gates, Yusuf emphasizes, was a decisive factor in the number of casualties, a decision coordinated by the military committee overseeing the area.

The Aftermath and Ongoing Investigations

The testimony adds to a growing body of evidence pointing to a deliberate and coordinated attack on unarmed protesters. The events of June 2019 remain a deeply sensitive and controversial topic in Sudan, with ongoing demands for justice and accountability.

Did you know? The events surrounding the Khartoum sit-in dispersal are currently under investigation by both Sudanese authorities and international bodies.

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To stay informed about the ongoing developments in Sudan, follow reputable news sources like Al Jazeera and Human Rights Watch.

FAQ

• What was the main accusation made by Al-Tayeb Osman Yusuf? Yusuf accuses Lieutenant General Bahar and the TMC of deliberately breaking promises to protect protesters and orchestrating the violent dispersal of the Khartoum sit-in.
• What role did the RSF play in the dispersal? The RSF were present, but Yusuf suggests they lacked local knowledge, while other groups, linked to Islamist battalions, carried out targeted attacks.
• What was the significance of closing the army headquarters’ gates? Yusuf argues this was a critical decision that trapped protesters and contributed to the high number of casualties.
• What happened to the Governor of Khartoum after the dispersal? Mortada Waraq resigned from his position and the army after witnessing the events.

Explore further insights into the Sudanese revolution and its complexities by reading our article on The Role of Civil Society in Sudan’s Transition.

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