An insight into the Sudanese NSR regime foreign policy decision-making (1989–1999)

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe paper examines the Sudanese National Salvation Revolution (NSR) regime foreign policy decision-making in the initial years. It provides an overview of formal and informal policy structures that carried out the National Islamic Front’s (NIF) external agenda, and the way state institutions were undermined in their pursuit to formulate or contribute in foreign policy direction. It offers an insight into Dr Hassan al-Turabi’s dominant role and influence in policy-making as the éminence grise of the NIF in power. The paper deliberates the implications of the form and shape of policy-making set up that led to the fragmentation of the NIF and the ejection of al-Turabi from the regime power formula. The Sudanese present political landscape shaped largely by this period and the intervention of ideology in the external affairs of the state. The paper reflects on the outcome of that phase on current Sudanese political context on issues related to the regional and international arena, domestic sphere and institutions.