Residents of the Sudanese capital city of Khartoum woke up to the sound of heavy gunfire and explosions as tensions boiled over between the Sudanese army and a powerful paramilitary group. The RSF (Rapid Support Forces) claims it has taken control of at least three of Sudan’s airports along with the army chief's residence and the presidential palace in an apparent coup attempt.
Shooting and blasts took place early on Saturday in the vicinity of Sudan’s army headquarters and the defense ministry in central Khartoum, as well as the presidential palace and airport. Smoke emanated from various locations in the city of 10 million people and civilians were seen running for cover as artillery exchanges erupted.
Local journalists saw cannons and armored vehicles deployed in the streets of the capital city, and heard heavy weapons fire near the headquarters of both the army and RSF. Videos are also emerging of military planes and helicopters flying low over the city, targeting RSF trucks and buildings, many of which are in densely-populated areas.
A prolonged confrontation seems likely, and it would significantly worsen an already-tense security situation in a country dealing with economic breakdown and frequent flare-ups of violence. The escalation is somehow both unimaginable and predictable at a time when rival forces have refused to cede power.
Side Items
Minnesota Making Waves: Shoutout to the Minneapolis city council for unanimously approving a resolution this week allowing the Islamic call to prayer, or “adhan”, to be publicly broadcast five times a day. Minneapolis becomes the first large US city to alter city noise ordinances and allow mosques to perform the call to prayer. I’m sure some right-wing bozos consider this part of some global Islamist agenda or “creeping Sharia”, but in reality it’s a show of respect to the significant Muslim population in the city and state
Montana Moving Backwards: Meanwhile, Montana became the first state to pass legislation banning TikTok from all personal devices, in a clear demonstration of freedom and personal liberty or whatever. Montana governor Greg Gianforte, who would’ve been considered the village idiot had he been born anytime in the past, proposed the bill prohibiting TikTok from operating within state lines and barring app stores from offering TikTok for downloads. This legislation is the furthest step yet by a state government to restrict the app over alleged security concerns. You’d think these lawmakers would focus on making sure people are fed or housed or have access to affordable healthcare, but instead they’re too busy trying to prevent kids from learning dance choreography