Sudan’s Cabinet Reassembles in Khartoum After 30 Months in Port Sudan
On January 25, 2026, Sudan’s cabinet convened for the first time in the capital, Khartoum, since the government relocated to Port Sudan following the outbreak of conflict in April 2023. The meeting was announced by the Information and Culture Minister, Khalid Aleisir, who emphasized that this gathering marked a significant step in the resumption of executive functions from the capital.
For approximately 30 months, the government had been based in Port Sudan, located on the Red Sea coast. This move came after the escalation of violence between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which forced officials to leave Khartoum. Now, with the return of the cabinet to its original location, there is a renewed focus on governance and national stability.
Aleisir noted that while all federal ministries have returned to Khartoum, the foreign and finance ministries will continue to maintain small coordination offices in Port Sudan. This arrangement ensures that essential functions can still be managed effectively, even as the core of the government reestablishes itself in the capital.
The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Kamil Idris, who led the session with the full 22-member cabinet. Attendees included key figures such as General Intelligence Service Director Ahmed Ibrahim Mufaddal, Khartoum Governor Ahmed Osman Hamza, and Darfur Governor Minni Arko Minawi. Their presence underscored the importance of the meeting and the collaborative approach being taken to address the nation’s challenges.
The cabinet met at the Khartoum state government secretariat, where discussions centered on several critical issues. One of the main topics was the review of levies, which are essential for funding public services and infrastructure. Another priority was the ongoing efforts to combat drugs and smuggling, both of which have been exacerbated by the instability in the region.
In addition, ministers reviewed the prime minister’s vision for major national projects, which include initiatives aimed at rebuilding the country’s infrastructure and improving public services. A key component of this vision is the development of a national digital identity file, which is expected to streamline administrative processes and enhance security.
The return of the cabinet to Khartoum represents a symbolic and practical step toward restoring normalcy in Sudan. However, the challenges ahead remain significant, and the success of the government’s efforts will depend on its ability to address these issues effectively.
As the country continues to navigate the aftermath of conflict, the resumption of executive activities in Khartoum offers a glimmer of hope for stability and progress. The decisions made during this meeting will likely shape the direction of the government in the coming months and years.