Sudan’s Burhan retires 21 generals in army reshuffle

April 11, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan retired several high-ranking officers and promoted others on Saturday, in a move the military described as a routine administrative procedure.

Sudan Tribune has learned that the retirements include 21 officers holding the rank of major general. Among the most prominent names are Diab Badr Diab, Khalid al-Qadi, Qandeel Bashir, and Khalid Abdel Mutaal.

The army spokesperson said in a statement that Burhan “issued decisions to promote a number of officers from various batches to higher ranks and to refer others to retirement.” The statement added that the decisions were made in accordance with armed forces law and organizational regulations.

The timing of the retirements has drawn criticism from Islamist circles. Sources noted that several of the retired officers played significant roles in the “Battle of Dignity,” the military’s ongoing campaign against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

This marks the second major reshuffle since the conflict began three years ago, following a similar round of promotions and retirements issued on Aug. 17, 2025.

The collective reshuffle follows individual disciplinary actions earlier this week. On Thursday, Major Sir al-Khatim al-Salmabi was dismissed from the military’s media wing after publishing a false report claiming Lieutenant General Shams al-Din Kabbashi had been appointed army commander.

The move also follows a recent restructuring of the General Staff. Under the new hierarchy, Lieutenant General Yasser al-Atta was appointed Chief of Staff, effectively abolishing the positions of deputy and assistant commanders.

Following that restructure, Burhan reassigned key figures to new roles. Shams al-Din Kabbashi was named assistant for construction and strategic planning, Ibrahim Jaber became assistant for international relations and military cooperation, and Mirghani Idris was appointed assistant for military industries