Army Chief Al-Burhan Retires 21 Generals in Major Military Reshuffle

Khartoum, April 11, 2026 - Sudan’s military leadership has undergone a significant restructuring after army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan ordered the retirement of 21 senior officers and the promotion of others, in what authorities described as a routine administrative measure.

According to a statement from the military, the reshuffle affects officers holding the rank of major general, including prominent figures such as Diab Badr Diab, Khalid al-Qadi, Qandeel Bashir, and Khalid Abdel Mutaal. The army said the decisions were taken in accordance with institutional regulations governing promotions and retirements within the armed forces.

However, the timing of the move has sparked criticism in some political and military circles. Observers noted that several of the retired officers had played key roles in the ongoing conflict against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), particularly within the framework of what the military refers to as the “Battle of Dignity.”

The reshuffle marks the second major reorganization of the military hierarchy since the outbreak of the conflict, following a similar wave of promotions and retirements in August 2025.

The changes come shortly after a series of internal disciplinary measures. Earlier in the week, Major Sir al-Khatim al-Salmabi was dismissed from the army’s media wing after publishing inaccurate information regarding a senior command appointment.

The restructuring also follows a broader overhaul of the General Staff. Under the new configuration, Yasser al-Atta was appointed Chief of Staff, while the positions of deputy and assistant commanders were abolished.

As part of the reorganization, several senior figures were reassigned to strategic roles. Shams al-Din Kabbashi was appointed assistant for construction and strategic planning, Ibrahim Jaber took on responsibilities for international relations and military cooperation, and Mirghani Idris was named assistant for military industries.

The developments highlight ongoing efforts by Sudan’s military leadership to consolidate command structures and adapt to the evolving dynamics of the conflict, now entering its third year.